Over 105,000 farmers register for Temo Letlotlo’s Crop Management System

Botswana’s Minister of Agriculture, Fidelis Molao has unveiled the Temo Letlotlo programme, in a bold move to tackle food security challenges.

This innovative initiative aims to revolutionise agricultural productivity through a multi-sectoral approach, involving various ministries, state-owned enterprises, and the private sector.

At its core, Temo Letlotlo is designed to enhance food security at both household and national levels. The programme’s Household Food Security component provides vital support to micro-scale farmers, offering them a 100 percent subsidy to ensure their crops meet their household needs. Meanwhile, the National Food Security component targets a broader range of farmers, providing seasonal loans and access to the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme to mitigate risks associated with crop loss.

One of the programme’s key features is its focus on crop diversification and the utilisation of climate-smart technologies. By incentivising the use of these technologies and providing strategic support for crop selection based on ecological and climatic conditions, Temo Letlotlo empowers farmers to optimise yields while reducing production costs.

The programme emphasises value addition and wealth creation through the identification of priority crops and the establishment of distinct product spaces. By harnessing agro-ecological mapping, farmers can make informed decisions about crop selection, thereby maximising their financial outcomes.

Since its launch in October 2023 by President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi, the Temo Letlotlo programme has made significant strides. Over 105,000 farmers have been registered in the Crop Management System, with a substantial portion actively engaged in grain production.

Despite challenges posed by drought conditions, the programme has facilitated the purchase of seasonal inputs and provided crucial support to farmers through stakeholder engagement initiatives.

However, the journey towards agricultural transformation is not without its obstacles. Challenges such as slow uptake of fertilisers in certain districts and the need for increased extension services highlight areas for improvement.

Nevertheless, the commitment of stakeholders, coupled with ongoing efforts to address these challenges, underscores the determination to realise the vision of a resilient and sustainable agricultural sector in Botswana.