09 Apr 2026

In Botswana’s vast agricultural landscapes, from the cattle posts of Tsabong to the fertile fields of the north, a quiet digital revolution is taking root.

At the centre of this transformation is 29-year-old Ms Bokani Chite, a Motswana entrepreneur redefining what it means to be an agri-preneur in the 21st century.

As founder of Lima-Thuwa Connect, Ms Chite is building more than an application; she is creating a bridge between traditional farming knowledge and modern, climate-smart practices.

For decades, smallholder farmers in Botswana have faced a persistent challenge, not a lack of effort, but limited access to markets and information. Middlemen often dictate prices, while critical market intelligence remains out of reach, particularly for those in remote areas.

Ms Chite’s platform seeks to change that.

Accessible via web and mobile, Lima-Thuwa Connect serves as a digital hub linking farmers, mentors, retailers and job seekers. The platform enables users to interact, share knowledge and access resources efficiently, both locally and across borders.

“The platform transforms how agriculture is practiced,” Ms Chite said. “It creates a space where stakeholders can connect, exchange information and unlock opportunities.”

What distinguishes the initiative from a conventional marketplace is its strong focus on human element faming.

A key feature is the mentorship programme, which connects young people and women with experienced farmers and agricultural consultants. Through partnerships with experts from Ghana, Uganda, Zambia, Kenya and South Africa, the platform facilitates cross-border knowledge exchange.

In response to challenges such as stock theft, the platform also includes a panic alert system. By registering farm coordinates, users can trigger rapid response support from nearby farmers and the Botswana Police Service.

Beyond connectivity, Lima-Thuwa Connect provides real-time pricing data for commodities such as livestock and vegetables, enabling farmers to make informed decisions and avoid underpricing their produce.

Looking ahead, Ms Chite envisions diversifying Botswana’s agricultural sector beyond traditional cattle and maize production. Her focus includes high-value ventures such as avocado farming, aquaculture and fodder production.

Currently in its internal testing phase, the platform is being refined to ensure a seamless user experience ahead of a wider rollout.

Ms Chite has a clear message for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly youth and women: “Be bold, start small and keep learning. Agriculture is not just about farming, it is about building sustainable businesses, contributing to the economy and creating a lasting legacy.”

At just 29, Ms Chite exemplifies how local innovation, powered by global technology, can address home-grown challenges. For Botswana’s farmers, the future may well be digital and firmly within reach. ends