12 Feb 2026

Aquiet revolution is taking root at Seroto Ward in Tonota. 

Ms Lady Moruakgomo, a 35-year-old horticulturalist, is cultivating a brighter future for herself and her community through mushroom production.

As the second person in her village to venture into mushroom production, she is proving that with the right skills and passion, even the most unlikely crops can yield a bountiful harvest.

“I am sharing my skills and expertise with fellow women, proving that even the most unlikely crops can yield a bountiful harvest,” she said.

Ms Moruakgomo’s journey began with a training programme sponsored by NARDI, where she mastered the art of mushroom cultivation. Her dedication has earned her reputation as a skilled trainer, and she is now passing on her knowledge to other women in the community.

“I want to empower other women in the society. We women have to support each other, and that is the only way to get out of poverty,” she added.

The process of growing mushrooms is labour intensive, but Ms Moruakgomo is undeterred. She uses cleaned maize straws, soaking them overnight, boiling them to disinfect and then filling them into plastic bags for germination in a dark room.

The mushrooms are grown in a dark house, where they are kept for three weeks before being exposed to sunlight by opening windows.

“I have never felt so empowered,” she said, carefully placing oyster mushrooms in a plastic bag. 

Her dark room is a demonstration to the power of entrepreneurship, providing for her family and inspiring other women. Ms Moruakgomo’s venture is more than just a business, it is a beacon of hope. She is creating jobs, promoting sustainable farming and putting nutritious food on tables.

“Mushrooms are a superfood. They are packed with protein and goodness,” said Ms Moruakgomo.

“It is a labourious business, but the returns are worth it. Mushrooms are fragile and very sensitive to anything surrounding them. It is a high value crop, but it requires patience and care."

With a huge market demand, particularly in Francistown, Ms Moruakgomo, whose mushrooms are the first batch she has ever grown, is confident that her produce will find eager buyers.

With the market research that she conducted pointing to a sprawling market, her target is chain stores and food outlets like restaurants.

“This is just the beginning,” she said, envisioning a future where mushroom farming transforms lives.

Tonota-based Agricultural Scientific Officer, Ms Amanda Molantwa is all praises for Ms Moruakgomo’s initiative; and sees it as a timely answer to the huge demand for mushrooms locally.

Ms Molantwa said with dedication and expertise, Ms Moruakgomo could prove that even the smallest initiatives could have a profound impact.

“Women need to support each other to get out of poverty and I am grateful that with the mushroom production, she is certainly doing just that,” she added.

Ms Molantwa is also urging women to consider mushroom production to improve their livelihoods.

“It is a high value crop with huge market and demand. With the right skills and support, women can graduate from poverty and achieve financial independence,” she said.

Ms Molantwa explained that with determination and passion, Ms Moruakgomo was cultivating a brighter tomorrow, one mushroom at a time.

When asked about common diseases affecting mushrooms, Ms Molantwa explained that their fragile nature and ability to ‘code’ surrounding smells made them susceptible to even minor threats.

“They can absorb smells from nearby substances, including harmful chemicals,” she noted.

Despite the challenges, Ms Molantwa highlighted the benefits of mushroom production.

“Mushrooms are not only delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients and numerous health benefits,” she said.

She said they were rich in protein, fibre, and antioxidants, and that mushrooms could help boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and even support cancer prevention.

Ms Molantwa’ s appeal is clear, “Join the mushroom revolution and take control of your financial future.” BOPA