Botswana’s smallholder livestock farmers are facing a paradox: despite being primary producers, many are struggling with food insecurity, a challenge amplified by shifting consumption patterns and a changing agricultural landscape. New research characterizing these dynamics underscores the urgent need for targeted intervention to protect livelihoods and boost the national agricultural economy.
The study highlights that reliance on subsistence farming alone is no longer a guarantee of nutritional well-being or financial stability for these communities.
The Income-Consumption Disconnect
Experts point to the need to integrate livestock farming more fully into the commercial food system. Sirak Bahta from the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) emphasized the core issue. “For many of these farmers, their livestock represents a bank, not a daily food source. The income is essential, but volatility in the market or herd health translates directly into food insecurity at home.”
The characterization reveals a disconnect where farmers sell their high-value protein (cattle) but often lack the consistent income to purchase diverse, nutritious foods.
Calls for Value Chain Integration
The path toward improved food security is seen as lying in better market access and value addition. Francis Wanyoike from the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) stressed the importance of systemic change. “The solution isn’t just about production; it’s about the post-production value chain. We need to help smallholders process, package, and market their products to capture a larger share of the profit, which then ensures more reliable household income for food purchase.”
The consumption patterns observed often show a high intake of starchy staples, with less access to the diverse proteins and micronutrients that Botswana’s extensive livestock sector should be supplying.
Policy and Research Imperatives
Local research is crucial for developing policies that are both effective and culturally appropriate. Hikuepi Katjiuongua, a researcher involved in the study, noted that policy must move beyond traditional agricultural subsidies. “The data clearly show that off-farm income is increasingly vital to food security. Policy must therefore support the integration of livestock income with stable market linkages and skill development.”
Meanwhile, Davis Samunzala Marumo from the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) highlighted the need for sustained academic focus. “Our research at BUAN is focused on developing climate-smart feed and fodder systems that de-risk livestock production. When herds are more resilient, the farmers’ income floor is raised, which is the most direct way to tackle chronic food insecurity in this sector.”
The findings serve as a stark reminder that as Botswana seeks to commercialize its agriculture, ensuring the well-being of the smallholder segment remains a critical development and business imperative.
