The Young Beautiful Botswana Potato Farmer

Dumelang! My name is Phatsimo Laone Mokwena, and at the age of 21, I have found my passion and purpose in the fertile soils of Botswana.

 After finishing my form 5 (BGCSE) in 2020 with 33 points, just below the average needed to attend university, I was at a crossroads. But rather than let this set me back, I embarked on an entrepreneurial journey that led me to the beauty and bounty of agriculture. 

Listen to my Story

In 2021, I dove into baking, which, although it did well, left me searching for more in the oversaturated market. It was a move to Mathangwane village and a conversation with my aunt about a mushroom production course that shifted my trajectory towards farming.

 

I am now proud to call myself a Potato Farmer. The skills and Knowledge Transfer sessions, conducted by Farmer's Pride International through its Rural and Urban Agriculture Innovative Production Program (RUAIPP), opened up a world of opportunity for me. Not only did I learn about mushroom cultivation, but I also took a course on potato production. In the midst of Potato import ban in Botswana, my aunt and I saw an opportunity to fill a market gap. We planted 1,000 bags of potatoes in the backyard of my mother's home in Matenge village, using a technique that made agriculture accessible, even without large plots of land. This approach drew attention and support from the community, the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, and media outlets.

 

By mid-September, we celebrated a bountiful harvest, selling over 60 bags of 10kg potatoes each. Bolstered by this success, I set out on my own, securing a loan from the Youth Development Fund Loans and crafting a heartfelt business plan. In May 2023, I planted 573 bags of the Valor and Foxy potato varieties. Despite a setback from frost, I still managed to harvest a significant quantity.

 

The economic benefits of bag and container potato farming are substantial. With an initial investment of P40,000.00 (approximately 3,600 USD), one can earn up to P200,000.00 (around 18,000 USD), which translates to a remarkable profit of P160,000.00 (roughly 14,400 USD). My potatoes sold with such speed that I didn't even have time to take photos for packaging. Now, with another batch of 1,000 bags growing, I'm living proof of the potential in this innovative farming method.

 

                                                                            How it started..

Throughout my journey, I've learned invaluable lessons:

 

1. Innovation and adaptability in agriculture can open doors where traditional methods may not.

2. Small-scale, high-value crop production is not only feasible but profitable.

3. Self-belief and determination are key to overcoming challenges.

4. Access to funding and a solid business plan are crucial for growth and sustainability.

5. Community support and visibility can significantly boost a farming enterprise.

 

RUAIPP has been instrumental in empowering youth and women, promoting gender equality, and contributing to the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goals 1 to 8. The program provides pathways to success through education, practical training, and support, fostering sustainable agriculture and youth empowerment. By embracing these principles, RUAIPP is helping to build a brighter, more sustainable future for Botswana and beyond.

 

 

As a young woman in Botswana, Phatsimo Laone Mokwena is a testament to the impact of RUAIPP and the power of agriculture to change lives. Her story is an inspiration to youth, showing that with the right training and support, even high-value crops like potatoes can be produced on a small scale with tremendous success.

 

By engaging in innovative practices like bag and container farming, young entrepreneurs can maximize land use, control growing conditions, and manage resources more efficiently. This method is especially beneficial for those with limited space, offering a scalable and environmentally friendly way to produce food.

 

RUAIPP's commitment to sustainable practices and youth empowerment aligns perfectly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By focusing on non-poverty (SDG 1), zero hunger (SDG 2), good health and well-being (SDG 3), quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), and decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), the program supports a holistic approach to rural and urban agriculture.

 

In conclusion, if you're a young person interested in making a significant impact in your community while building a sustainable and profitable business, consider joining forces with Farmer's Pride International Rural and Urban Agriculture Innovative Production Program (RUAIPP). You'll gain invaluable knowledge, contribute to your nation's food security, and empower yourself and others through the vibrant field of agriculture. Reach out today to start your own journey in shaping a greener, more equitable future.

 

For other young people out there, you are warmly invited to join the Farmer's Pride International Rural and Urban Agriculture Innovative Production Program (RUAIPP). Here's how you can reach out:

 

Phone: +26771707820

Email: farmerspride-int@outlook.com

Website/Social Media Site: https://linktr.ee/farmerspride.int