Botswana Targets Sharp Cut in Food Imports to Boost Local Production by 2029

Botswana Targets Sharp Cut in Food Imports to Boost Local Production by 2029. The Ministry of Lands and Agriculture has announced an ambitious plan to reduce Botswana’s dependence on imported food, setting a goal to lower imports from 21.7% in 2024 to 13.7% by 2029/30. The target, which covers key commodities such as cereals, milk, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables, forms part of the draft National Development Plan 12 (NDP12).

Presenting the plan, Acting Minister Edwin Dikoloti said the initiative aims to enhance food self-sufficiency and economic resilience while strengthening local agricultural production. By curbing imports, the government seeks to redirect value creation into Botswana’s rural and farming communities.

The Ministry indicated that progress will be monitored annually using Statistics Botswana’s International Merchandise Trade data to ensure transparency and measurable outcomes. Dikoloti added that food security remains a key national priority, emphasizing that supporting farmers and agro-processors is essential to achieving sustainable growth.

As part of the plan, the government will introduce initiatives focused on value chain development, infrastructure investment, and market access. These efforts are designed to attract private-sector partnerships and encourage local entrepreneurs to participate in food production and agribusiness ventures.