13 May 2025

President Advocate Duma Boko recently made a significant visit to the Tsabong Mokala community borehole, demonstrating government's ongoing commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and fostering climate-smart farming practices.

The visit, which followed the launch of the Ecosystem Based Adaptation and Mitigation project, provided a platform for local farmers to directly voice their needs and aspirations to the nation's leader.

Speaking on behalf of Mokala farming community, Mr Segomotso Ntau conveyed heartfelt gratitude for the borehole, emphasising its vital role in sustaining agriculture within the arid region. He lauded efforts and contributions of all those who sponsored the project, recognising their invaluable impact on the community's well-being and future agricultural prospects.

Mr Ntau confirmed that through the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture previously under the purview of Water Affairs, the community had successfully acquired Tsabong Mokala community borehole, an existing water infrastructure. The ministry committed funding the borehole project with an investment exceeding P500 000 to equip and water reticulate the borehole, which was handed to the community in 2024 he said.

He said Tsabong Village Development Committee too played a crucial role; contributing P5 000 to cover essential land board fees associated with the allocation of the pipeline. Demonstrating community spirit and ownership, residents themselves undertook significant task of digging the 5-kilometer pipeline that ensured access to the water source he said.  

Mr Ntau proposed a collaborative effort with government to facilitate sharing of superior genetics from Lobu's high-quality livestock, aiming to improve their herd's overall productivity and value. Beyond livestock improvement, Mr Ntau urged the President to assist local farmers in transitioning towards commercialised operations and gaining access to lucrative international markets.

He requested permanent stationing of agricultural officers within Tsabong Mokala community borehole to serve the local farmers. He said this would eliminate the burden of travel currently faced by farmers seeking essential agricultural support and guidance. 

The President acknowledged farmers’ concerns and reaffirmed government's strong commitment to bolstering the agricultural sector. He highlighted existing government initiatives designed to provide crucial subsidies, facilitate access to credit, and ultimately enhance agricultural productivity across the nation.

President Boko assured the community that government was actively working on improving infrastructure and allocating necessary resources to enable farmers to thrive and contribute effectively to Botswana's food security. ENDS