Botswana has a lot of things going for it but a strong farming sector isn't one of them. The nation is a long way from being self-sufficient when it comes to food. In 2006, local farmers produced 322,245 metric tonnes of maize, sorghum, millet and wheat, but that figure only accounted for 10 percent of the country's cereal needs.
The Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency, however, is trying improve those figures by making it more attractive for young Batswana to stay on the land. That is why CEDA set up a stall at the BOCCIM (Botswana Confederation of Commerce, Industry and Manpower) Northern Trade Fair in May to promote its new Young Farmers Fund. All citizens between the ages of 18 and 35, and all wholly citizen-owned companies that wish to start or expand agricultural projects, are eligible to apply for the assistance that comes mainly in the form of subsidised loans.
The maximum loan size is 500,000 Pula ($80,000) at an interest rate of 5 percent, and the money can be used for working capital, infrastructure development or both.
CEDA have decided specific training is essential for farming success so the government lending agency will require all successful applicants to take appropriate courses before the money is handed over. Monitoring and support services will also be provided.
The Voice
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June 11, 2007
Botswana markets loan fund to encourage young farmers
Categories Botswana, capacity building, cereals, development
