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.

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