Poultry farmers in the Monarch area of Francistown are calling for urgent government assistance after heavy downpours destroyed broiler chickens and feed, leaving them struggling to recover from repeated flood losses.
One of the affected farmers, Masego Pule, said flooding has become a recurring crisis. She lost 2,500 broiler chickens and 40 bags of feed during heavy rains in February last year, followed by another loss of 170 broilers and seven bags of feed in December. Her co-farmer, Nthabiseng Motswetla, also suffered losses of 198 broilers and eight bags of feed during the same period.
The farmers said they have undergone damage assessments after each disaster but have yet to receive assistance to restock, raising concerns about the sustainability of their operations. Pule attributed the persistent flooding to poorly constructed internal roads that block natural water flow, worsening conditions during heavy rains. She added that relocation may be necessary, as some farmers are forced to seek shelter with relatives when flooding occurs.
Francistown Deputy District Commissioner Patrick Tlotleng said the district disaster response team prioritises saving lives when floods hit. He explained, “The affected residents will be relocated where necessary and provided with basic necessities such as food and clothing, after which a comprehensive assessment of damaged property and goods is conducted.”
Tlotleng also acknowledged support from Business Botswana through the Private Sector Disaster Response Fund, which helps businesses recover and continue operating after disasters. He said the fund assisted flood victims in Northeast, Tonota and Francistown districts last year with food hampers and household items.
