Our Association

Our association was founded in 1999 to serve as a unified voice for all commercial-scale grain farmers operating in Pandamatenga. For 25 years, it has been an active player in the transformation and growth of the country’s greatest grain producing area, and it continues to do so with dedicated efforts toward the advancement and prosperity of Botswana’s agricultural sector.

TO BE THE DRIVER OF THE AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION IN BOTSWANA

The potential of the agricultural sector in Botswana is immense and the farmers of Pandamatenga are committed to keep investing in their operations to increase yields, grain quality and portfolio. We firmly believe that all farmers in Botswana, small and large, are capable of producing 100% of all food needed to feed our nation, and more to export to others.

TO GROW FOOD FOR BOTSWANA AND BEYOND

Season after season, our farmers are dedicated to growing the grains that will first feed Botswana.

Attending to our country’s needs will always be our farmers’ top priority, but serving international markets is also good business practice and beneficial for the economy of Botswana.

RESPECT. TRUST. WORK

Without principles, nothing good can happen. Everything done through the association is based on:
  • Respect for Botswana, the land, wildlife, and one another.
  • Trust in God, in good work, and in each other.
  • Work persistently and consistently for great results.

Our Farmers

Proud farmers of Botswana

In the mid-1980s, the Government of Botswana invited experienced farmers from neighboring African countries to pioneer grain production in the northern region, which was then virgin wildlife land with rich black cotton soils, ideal for dryland farming. Other farmers joined the effort a few years later, when the farming area was expanded.

The farmers represented by our association, both men and women, are proud to be known as the ‘Pandamatenga Farmers’ and the custodians of the ‘Food Basket of Botswana’.

Over the years, they have developed their farms into solid operations to produce food for Botswana and beyond, and they do it in balance with one of the world’s most pristine wildlife reserves, the Chobe National Park.

I want to assure that Pandamatenga farmers have one common goal: the food security of our country, having in mind to take good care of the land and environment for a sustainable future. We are proud to be farmers in Botswana and we want the government and every person in the country to be proud of us too.
Mr. Jaco StrachanPCFA Chairman
Pandamatenga means good work every day. The potential here is immense. In fact, the potential of the agricultural sector as a whole is still untapped. So, we are working hard, seeking solutions not only for the farmers in Pandamatenga but for all grain farmers of Botswana.
Mrs. L. C. ScheepersPCFA Chief Executive Officer
“Our climate is changing rapidly, Pandamatenga farmers have adapted, and Batswana can rest assured that we will continue to do our best to produce the best quality sorghum available in the world.”
Mr. Ryan NealPCFA Vice Chairperson
Having headed up the PCFA Quelea committee for the past 6 years, I have formed lasting and bonding relationships with the staff of the department of crop protection. Nowhere have I seen the government and private sector come together so firmly and efficiently to achieve a common goal with unbridled success. It has been my pleasure to work alongside these men and women. Thank you, Botswana. Pula!!
Mr. Paul KingPandamatenga farmer

Our executive board

RESPECT. TRUST. WORK

Our association is governed by nine strong farmers, who are elected by members at the annual general meeting held every March.

The Executive Board holds regular meetings with the Chief Executive Officer, and monthly meetings are held for members to obtain updates and to participate in key discussions and decision-making for specific actions.

Transparency is key and regular reports are made available to all members.

Executive Board 2024-2025

Chairperson
Vice chairperson
Treasurer
Secretary
Vice secretary
Member
Member
Member
Member
CEO

Jaco Strachan
Ryan Neal
Callie Viljoen
Duart Malan
Gideon Muller
JJ van der Westhuizen
Paul King
Wimpie Vos
Lafras Visagie
L. C. Scheepers