As wheat farmers in Pandamatenga and the Tuli Block complete this year’s winter wheat harvest, we are facing significant challenges that impact both our livelihoods and the broader agricultural landscape in Botswana. Over the past several years, commercial farmers have made substantial investments to improve infrastructure and diversify grain production. Yet, despite these efforts, new hurdles have emerged that require immediate attention and solute`ions.
Why Are Farmers Producing Wheat in Botswana?
Pandamatenga commercial farmers have been driven to produce wheat as part of a broader effort to address the country’s food security issues. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of Botswana’s food supply, and farmers were called upon to produce more, both in quantity and variety.
Pandamatenga, traditionally a dryland farming area with only one harvest per year, began wheat trials in 2020 as a winter crop. What started with a single farmer has now grown to seven farmers producing wheat in 2024. The production history demonstrates rapid growth:
- 2020: 440 tons
- 2021: 1,080 tons (145% increase)
- 2022: 3,430 tons (218% increase)
- 2023: 8,200 tons (139% increase)
- 2024: 7,500 tons (estimated; -9% decrease)
Though production has surged, these gains still only cover a fraction of local demand. Large-scale millers in Botswana require approximately 14,000 tons of wheat per month, or 168,000 tons annually. In 2023, farmers produced around 8,200 tons of wheat, and for 2024, the estimate is 7,500 tons. This represents merely 5% of the yearly requirement, equivalent to just two weeks of supply for large millers.
Collaborating with Local Millers: The Need for Fair Terms
Following the Grain Advisory Committee meeting in August, farmers engaged in discussions with local millers to establish fair terms for the Botswana-grown wheat purchase price. While these discussions were constructive, the ongoing negotiation process revealed the need for stronger commitments to support local wheat producers. It’s essential that local millers and producers find common ground to ensure the sustainability of wheat farming in Botswana. A sustainable agreement between farmers and millers is critical.
Exploring Alternative Markets
In addition to local negotiations, Botswana’s wheat farmers have been exploring potential export markets, particularly in Zambia. However, several challenges hinder this option. Botswana currently lacks a formal trade history with Zambia for grains, which complicates the process of securing export permits in time. The uncertainty of exporting wheat means farmers must seek storage solutions to preserve their crops while awaiting further market opportunities. Although the expansion into regional markets holds potential, these logistical challenges must be addressed to make exports a viable option for Botswana’s wheat farmers.
Storage Solutions: A Short-Term Necessity
The uncertainty surrounding local buyers and export opportunities poses significant risks for Botswana’s wheat farmers. Without adequate storage facilities or consistent market support, many farmers may be pressured to sell their wheat under unfavorable conditions, jeopardizing both their operations and the future of wheat production in the country.
This situation highlights the urgent need for robust frameworks that protect and promote local agriculture. Reliable market access and proper storage solutions are critical. Without them, farmers are left vulnerable to market fluctuations, which can undermine their efforts and hinder growth in the sector.
Botswana’s food security depends on the implementation of strong agricultural policies that shield local producers from the volatility of both domestic and international markets, ensuring long-term sustainability and economic stability.
A Path Forward: Securing Botswana’s Agricultural Future
Despite these challenges, Pandamatenga farmers remain committed to increasing self-reliance in food production. The growth in wheat production from 2020 to 2024 demonstrates the potential of Botswana’s agricultural sector. However, to maintain this momentum, farmers need more than just hard work; they need assurance in the form of fair pricing, easy access to temporary storage infrastructure, and access to both local and regional markets.
The upcoming discussions with the Grain Advisory Committee and the newly established Botswana Agronomic Board will be crucial in determining the future of wheat production in Botswana. With timely action and cooperative solutions, Botswana’s agricultural sector can thrive, ensuring food security for the nation.
The road ahead is uncertain, but with the right support, wheat production can continue to grow, securing a brighter future for farmers.
