In the Dibongwana area of Tonota in Botswana, one family is quietly transforming agriculture into a pathway for sustainable livelihoods, job creation and international trade. Through organic turmeric farming, Raps and Family Organic Turmeric Farm is demonstrating how small-scale farmers can tap into high-value export markets while uplifting local communities.
What began as an experiment is now evolving into a promising agribusiness venture. The family, once unfamiliar with turmeric production, has positioned itself among 24 farms preparing to export organically grown turmeric to the European market, particularly Germany, where demand for certified organic products continues to rise. Speaking during a recent turmeric production workshop hosted at the farm, representative Kenosi Molopo said their journey reflects the power of learning, patience and market awareness.
“We were once ordinary farmers with no knowledge of turmeric production. Today, we are expecting our first harvest and are confident of good returns because a market already exists in Germany,” said Molopo. The farm spans 16 hectares, with 1.5 hectares currently under cultivation as a pilot. Despite its modest start, the project is already generating impact. The family is creating employment opportunities both directly and indirectly, hiring workers for planting, maintenance and soon harvesting, while also contributing to seasonal job creation within the community.
Turmeric farming, which takes seven to eight months to mature, requires careful adherence to organic standards and technical guidance. With support from Gatekeepers International Botswana, the family is part of a structured value chain that includes training, certification and access to international buyers. This integration into a formal export system is what sets the venture apart. Rather than farming without a clear market, the family is producing for a guaranteed and premium-paying European market. Current projections indicate that farmers can earn up to €5 per kilogram for turmeric rhizomes and up to €10 per kilogram for turmeric leaves, creating strong income potential.
Beyond income, the initiative is also driving skills development and knowledge transfer. Through workshops and ongoing technical support, farmers are learning modern, organic farming methods, record-keeping practices and compliance with strict European Union standards. Experts supporting the initiative emphasise that turmeric farming holds significant potential for job creation. Each farm can sustain permanent workers while also employing up to 20 seasonal labourers during peak periods such as planting and harvesting. For communities like Tonota, this represents a meaningful contribution to rural employment.
The family’s success is also contributing to a broader agricultural shift. As global demand grows for organic and health-related products, turmeric has moved beyond its traditional use as a spice to become a key ingredient in the pharmaceutical and wellness industries. Through partnerships with international organisations, farmers are being linked to pharmaceutical companies and research institutions, opening the door for Botswana to participate in higher-value segments such as processing and contract manufacturing in the future.
However, accessing these opportunities requires strict compliance. Farmers must undergo rigorous certification processes, maintain detailed records and ensure zero contamination from synthetic chemicals. While demanding, these standards are what enable access to premium markets and long-term sustainability. Molopo believes the journey is only beginning. He concluded, “The most important thing is to follow the recommended practices and remain patient. The returns are there and the opportunities are real.”
With plans to expand production in the next planting season, the family is not only building its own future but also setting an example for other farmers across Botswana. Their story illustrates how agriculture, when linked to the right markets and supported by knowledge and partnerships, can become a powerful engine for sustainable livelihoods, job creation and economic growth.
