06 Oct 2026

Bangwato deputy chief Kgosi Seretse Peter Khama, on Sunday, declared the start of the ploughing season. The move allows farmers to prepare their fields and take advantage of the rain season. 

Commissioning the ploughing season that is usually conducted on October and on Sundays as per Sengwato custom, Kgosi Khama thus encouraged communities to utilise first and early rain to boost national food security. 

The declaration, otherwise better known as ‘go-bolotsa Letsema’ is meant for farmers to clear weeds, fertilise soil and mend fences ahead of the rainy season. Consequently, deputy chief advised farmers to service tractors, prepare draught power and secure quality and drought resistant seeds as the season has been declared an El-Nino season, so as to catch the early rain and optimise yields.

The letsema declaration also serves as a warning for livestock farmers to look after their animals to prevent stray livestock from destroying crops and causing unnecessary conflicts. One of the traditional leaders and Bangwato royal uncle, Kgosi Rasebolai Kgamane remain optimistic that the heavens shall open and down pours shall be in abundance to enable the masses to plough to boost food security and self-sufficiency in the country. 

He thus called for mass crop production and self-reliance so as to reduce reliance on government handouts.  

In addition, Kgosi Kgamane said the move would also reduce reliance on food imports and thus urged Bangwato to partake in cultural activities for their own benefit.

For his part, Serowe Ministers Fraternal chairperson, Pastor Karabo Koosimile said rain was a blessing and a powerful symbol of God’s provision and care of creation.

He said a precipitation was viewed not merely as a physical weather pattern, but as a tangible gift that sustained life and nourished the earth. 

Bikwe farmer, Malebo Seako was of the view that arable farmers should be assisted with fencing material to protect their fields from animals, arguing such a move would optimise crop production. She said risk mitigation financing focusing on broader production was paramount for the country to realise food security and self-sufficiency, noting government assistance was limited to a hectare. 

Seako said more people were willing to plough a huge chunk of their lands but that assistance was limited, incapacitating some farmers, thus contributing to low yields as only those with the financial resources could afford to plough as they wished.

Another farmer, Lekgabile Kootswele of Mogatsapoo farms, said rain was no longer reliable unlike in the past, adding that it was no longer enough for arable farmers to hit optimum levels of out-put.

Kootswele urged Batswana to take farming as a business, arguing such a move would transform farming in the country and change people’s economic landscape. ENDS