12 Jan 2025

Letlhabile Southern Young Farmers Association is on a mission to equip young farmers from Southern region with skills, knowledge, and networks they need to thrive as commercial farmers.

The association, chaired by Mr Manners Bohule, comprises 35 commercial farmers from areas such as Mmathethe, Segwagwa, Kanye, Moshupa, and nearby villages.

“We started as lebandla (a collective group) in 2018 with minimal funds. However, we eventually registered as a legal entity in Botswana, enabling us to formalise our operations,” Mr Bohule explained.

The association welcomes farmers aged 18 to 35.

“Our primary goal is to provide young farmers with resources, mentorship, and opportunities to commercialise their agricultural ventures,” said Mr Bohule.

He said the association had secured approximately P2.5 million funding over the past two years from the National Development Bank for equipment and tractors.

“This year, we are managing around P3.5 million, excluding working capital,” Mr Bohule noted and furthered stated that members also accessed financial support from institutions like the Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) and the Youth Development Fund (YDF).

“We assist young farmers with YDF proposal,” he added. 

He said farmers repay their loans within a year, with interest, enabling sustainability of the funding model.

Mr Bohule, who primarily rears sheep, has diversified to also include crop farming due to seasonal challenges. 

“I amm currently farming 70 hectares of maize and 30 hectares of beans, totalling 100 hectares. 

“Four of my neighbouring associates are also farming 100 hectares each, which highlights the scale of our operations,” said Mr Bohule.

While rain is essential for livestock and crops, he said excessive rainfall could pose challenges.

“Hybrid seeds are our go-to for maize farming, but I encourage farmers to plant local seeds, especially with the anticipated heavy rains,” he said.

The association is also embracing modern technology to enhance productivity. 

“We’ve used generators and six-foot deep ploughing methods, which are costly. 

However, drone technology has proven to be both cost-effective and efficient and we are looking forward to try it out,” Mr Bohule remarked.

He urged young people to consider farming as a viable career path. “Before venturing into farming, network with others, be inspired and develop a genuine love for it. Equip yourself with training, short courses, and research. 

Farming requires dedication and resilience,” he emphasised.

Mr Bohule encouraged youth to start farming while they were still young and energetic. “Our aim is to connect young farmers with key stakeholders like YDF, CEDA, LEA, and NDB to help them commercialise their operations,” he concluded.

g techniques and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. ENDS