Selebi-Phikwe Agricultural Area – Botswana

The Selebi-Phikwe Agricultural Area region in Botswana is undergoing a significant agricultural transformation, particularly in the citrus industry. This development is marked by the Selebi Phikwe Citrus project, recognized as Botswana’s first major commercial agriculture initiative. The project is extensive, covering an area of over 1500 hectares.

A diverse range of citrus and fruits are being cultivated in this area, with the aim of catering to global market demands. The primary products from this venture include:

1. Star Ruby Grapefruit: This variety is known for its red-blushed flesh and sweet taste, and it occupies a niche segment within the grapefruit market.
2. Premium Mandarins: Mandarins, encompassing varieties like Tangerines, Clementines, and Satsumas, are growing in popularity due to their convenience as a snack. They are smaller and sweeter than oranges and are favored for their ease of peeling.
3. Eureka Lemons: This seedless lemon variety is rapidly gaining popularity in the global market. The seedless characteristic and potential for year-round production make it a desirable product.
4. Valencia Oranges: These oranges are versatile, being used for both fresh consumption and in the processed juice markets. They remain a trusted and sought-after citrus variety globally.

The Selebi Phikwe Citrus Project is not only focused on production but also on infrastructural development. This includes the construction of a 12-kilometre pipeline for irrigation, ensuring sufficient water supply for the farm. The project aims to feature 750,000 trees when complete and is expected to significantly impact the landscape of citrus production in Botswana. It’s projected that by 2024, a large portion of the produce (approximately 70%) will be exported to markets in the Northern Hemisphere, including the United States, Canada, UK, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, China, and Japan. The remaining produce will cater to the local market and the SADC region, with a small percentage allocated for agro-processing into fruit juice and other products.

This development represents a major stride in diversifying Botswana’s agro-industry, with expected positive spin-off effects generating other value chain business opportunities. The project is aligned with the government’s strategy to modernize the country’s agricultural sector, aiming to boost food security and nutrition in Botswana. It’s also expected to create numerous jobs, contributing to economic growth and the transformation of the local agricultural landscape.

For more detailed information on the Selebi Phikwe Citrus project and its impact on Botswana’s agriculture, you can visit the Selebi Phikwe Citrus website and PressReader’s coverage of the project.