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Check FAQAbout Tshiamo
I am Tshiamo Tabane, a journalist from Botswana. I graduated with Bachelors Degree in Media Studies from University of Botswana, where I studied journalism and public relations between 2008 and 2012. I have nine years of work experience in news writing and reporting, after practicing as a journalist in the newspaper industry in Botswana. I have worked for the local newspapers such as Sunday Standard, Global Post, Echo, The Voice, The Nation and Botswana Gazette. I have also worked for the South African mining weekly magazine. Currently, I work as freelance news reporter for the Weekend Post newspaper, a weekly Botswana based publication. I also write for the Farmers Weekly SA magazine, a popular South African based weekly magazine that distributes hard copies in Southern Africa. Below are links to some of my stories published in the magazine: I write news on business, economy, climate change, developmental news, agriculture and mining. I can also do research and write market reports on various economic sectors. I can also write press statements, public announcements and annual reports for companies.
English
Journalism
Investigative Reporting
Portfolio
Botswana’s first mega citrus project expecting first harvest next year
Botswana's first large-scale citrus project, the Selebe-Phikwe Citrus project, is set to harvest its first crop in January next year. The project, which includes around 800,000 citrus trees on a 1,500ha site, aims to target markets in China, the US, and Europe. The CEO, Johan Janse van Vuuren, highlighted the project's potential to provide employment for up to 1,500 people and bring indirect benefits to the local economy. The Botswana government, represented by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Molebatsi Molebatsi, has expressed support for the project, aligning with its strategy to attract foreign direct investment and build an export-led economy. The government has also reserved land for further citrus farming to meet domestic demand and reduce reliance on imports.
Chobe Holdings Limited expects surge in profit before tax
Chobe Holdings Limited, a company listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange, is expecting a significant increase in profit before tax for the year ended February 2023, with estimates suggesting a rise of approximately 357-367% (BWP 185.0 to 190.2 million) compared to a loss of BWP 51.8 million in the previous year. The company attributes this turnaround to the recovery of the tourism sector, with a notable increase in bed nights sold and tourist arrivals. The premium brand Ker & Downey Botswana is showing signs of improvement, and the company has encouraged domestic tourism with reduced rates. Chobe Holdings has managed to navigate supply chain issues arising from the Russia-Ukraine conflict by securing alternative suppliers. The company has maintained its assets throughout the pandemic, positioning itself to capitalize on the sector's recovery. The Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB) and the UNWTO anticipate a full recovery of the tourism sector by 2024 or later.
Botswana optimistic about local apple production
Botswana is set to begin commercial production of apples with the introduction of new semi-arid apple varieties suitable for the local climate. The Ministry of Agriculture has highlighted the challenges of apple farming in Botswana due to the weather, but the new varieties like Anna, Golden Dorsett, and Pink Lady are expected to thrive. Tomapple Investments, a local company, has been producing seedlings and believes this will reduce the country's reliance on imported apples. Currently, there is a demand for at least 10 tons of apples per week, which are imported mainly from South Africa. Tomapple's director, Thomas Jaravaza, mentioned that 10,000 trees have been supplied to farmers, and at least 20,000 are needed to meet the demand and support the production of apple-related products. Tiroyaone Molefe, an aspiring apple farmer, has seen success in pilot projects with the new cultivars.
Electricity generation down 15.8%
Botswana experienced a 15.8% decrease in electricity generation in Q3 of 2022, primarily due to operational issues at the Morupule B power plant operated by Botswana Power Corporation. The decline resulted in an increase in electricity imports by 76.3%, with Eskom being the largest external supplier. Despite the quarterly decrease, there was a year-on-year increase in local electricity generation of 36.3%. Statistics Botswana's report indicates a long-term trend of increasing electricity distribution from 2013 to 2022, suggesting efforts to meet domestic demand and reduce reliance on imports, as evidenced by a 32.6% decrease in imported electricity volume year-on-year.
US$98 million initiative to restore rangelands in Botswana
The United States Conservation International, United Nations Green Climate Fund, and Botswana’s Ministry of Agriculture have launched a new initiative to restore communal rangelands and improve grazing on farmland in Botswana. The project, running until 2030, is funded by the Botswanan government and international partners, totaling approximately US$98 million. It includes training for farmers in rangeland management, establishing firebreaks to reduce wildfires, and capacity building through the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Initially, four districts will be targeted, with the potential to expand to 104 farming districts. The initiative aims to combat the effects of climate change, such as frequent droughts and wildfires, which have led to land degradation and negatively impacted livestock production, a key economic activity in rural Botswana.
US Bans Poultry Imports from Botswana Due to Avian Influenza Outbreak
The United States has imposed a ban on poultry imports from Botswana following an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the African country. The US Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has added Botswana to the list of countries from which poultry and related products are prohibited to prevent the spread of the disease to US farms. Botswana had reported the outbreak to US authorities, prompting the ban. Dr. John Moreki, a researcher at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, noted that the poultry industry in Botswana faces many challenges, including disease outbreaks. Gideon Mmolawa, acting deputy secretary in Botswana's Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, stated that Botswana would address the issue, especially since the country exports poultry meat to the US under the African Growth and Opportunity Act.
Farmers and government clash over stray livestock
Livestock farmers in Botswana are facing challenges due to government regulations that allow for the repossession and sale of stray livestock at public auctions. Between March 2017 and March 2019, the government repossessed over 13,000 stray animals, selling more than 4,700 through auctions and raising significant funds. Farmers argue that even clearly marked cattle are being taken, which disrupts the communal farming system prevalent in the country. The Botswana National Beef Producers’ Union advocates for the use of a livestock identification system to trace and return cattle to their owners, rather than selling them. The government has not responded to these concerns, but maintains that the law permits the collection and auctioning of stray livestock, and that owners have the opportunity to claim their animals before auction dates.
New study reveals why youth entrepreneurs are failing
A study by the Alliance for African Partnership and the University of Botswana has highlighted several obstacles facing youth entrepreneurship in Botswana. Despite significant investment from the government and private sector, young entrepreneurs struggle with accessing funding, land, machinery, and training. The study, which included interviews with various stakeholders, found that the entrepreneurial mindset among the youth is lacking, with many viewing business as a fallback option rather than a career choice. Challenges such as poor financial management, lack of perseverance, and a fragmented entrepreneurial ecosystem were identified. The financial sector suggested the creation of an intermediary body to unify the ecosystem and provide comprehensive mentorship programs.
Engen Botswana records P2.7 bn revenue
Engen Botswana Limited, a petroleum company listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange, has reported a significant increase in performance for the year 2021. The company's revenues rose by 16% to P2.7 billion, and profits soared by 166% to P260.9 million. This growth is attributed to increased sales volumes following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, such as inter-zonal travel permits and border restrictions, after October 1, 2021. The company also benefited from higher global crude oil prices. Engen Botswana's Board Chairperson, Shabani Ndzinge, and Acting Managing Director, Brian Sameke, both highlighted the company's resilience and record-breaking financial performance in 2021. Engen operates 1,450 filling stations across Botswana, with 600 featuring onsite convenience shops.
Tourism sector on recovery mode
The Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB) has reported that the international tourism sector is on the path to recovery, with expectations of returning to pre-pandemic levels by 2024 or later. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) predicts a potential rebound in tourist arrivals in 2022, but still below 2019 figures. Despite economic challenges, the sector could see growth due to the lifting of travel restrictions and vaccination rollouts. University of Botswana researchers highlighted the dependency of Botswana's tourism on international visitors, noting significant losses during the pandemic. Researcher Wame Hambira emphasized the vulnerability of the sector due to its reliance on international markets, particularly those heavily affected by COVID-19. Botswana's tourism strategy focuses on high value and low environmental impact, with the sector being a major contributor to the country's GDP and employment before the pandemic.
Economists project lower economic growth for Botswana
Economists have revised Botswana's economic growth projections for 2022 and 2023 downwards due to the impact of the war in Ukraine and other global economic disruptions. The local research firm E-consult, along with Fitch Solutions, predicts a decline from the initial 5.3% to 4.8% in 2022, and further to 4.0% in 2023. The war in Ukraine has exacerbated supply chain issues and the sanctions on Russian diamonds are expected to affect Botswana's diamond industry and government revenue. The Bank of Botswana may raise interest rates to combat inflation. Fitch Solutions also warns that new COVID-19 variants could lead to further economic downturns if restrictions are reimposed.
Economists project lower economic growth for Botswana
Economists have revised Botswana's economic growth projections for 2022 and 2023 downwards due to the impact of the war in Ukraine and other global economic disruptions. The local research firm E-consult, along with Fitch Solutions, predicts a decline from the initial 5.3% to 4.8% in 2022, and further to 4.0% in 2023. The war in Ukraine has exacerbated supply chain issues and the sanctions on Russian diamonds are expected to affect Botswana's diamond industry and government revenue. The Bank of Botswana may raise interest rates to combat inflation. Fitch Solutions also warns that new COVID-19 variants could lead to further economic downturns if restrictions are reimposed.
Botswana's Citrus Production Expected to Surge by 2024
The Botswanan government anticipates a significant increase in citrus production by 2024, driven by a rise in the number of local farmers engaging in citrus farming since 2020. Agricultural extension officer Oarabile Letsatsi noted the growth in citrus seedling imports by farmers in 2020 and 2021. Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Oreeditse Sola Molebatsi, highlighted a major project near Selibe-Phikwe, developed with South African investors, aimed at both local and international markets, including the US and UK. This project is expected to attract substantial foreign investment and facilitate skills transfer to local farmers. Johan Janse van Vuuren, operations manager at Selibe-Phikwe Citrus, mentioned that 350,000 orange trees have been planted, with the first phase of the project to be completed by June 2022. The Botswanan agriculture ministry has also reserved land for citrus farming to meet the domestic demand and reduce imports.
Volatile weather puts pressure on Botswana’s grain harvest
Botswana’s Ministry of Agricultural Development and Food Security has issued a warning about an expected reduction in grain harvests due to dry spells and heatwaves that have damaged dryland crops. The ministry's statistics indicate that 70% of Botswana's farmers rely on dryland agriculture, growing crops such as sorghum, maize, millet, oilseeds, and beans. The southern and south-eastern parts of the country have been particularly affected, with about 76% of crops planted in the 2021/22 season destroyed. Local farmers have reported the last significant rainfall was in November and December 2021, with no rain from January to March 2022, leading to crop failures. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations noted that grain production in Botswana had increased in 2021 due to expanded planted areas and favorable rainfall, but the current conditions suggest a significant setback for the upcoming harvest.
Fears about increase in game poaching in Botswana
The Botswana government has amended its agricultural policy to permit arable and livestock farmers to keep wildlife on their farms to boost local agritourism. This decision has raised concerns about potential increases in wildlife poaching due to the lack of security measures such as fencing. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks is offering 'start-up wildlife stock' to farmers, which they will own after successfully breeding and donating offspring. Dr. Pieter Kat, director of the wildlife conservation organisation PATH, criticized the initiative, stating it favors large-scale farmers and lacks proper regulations for animal containment and transportation. Small-scale farmer Moemedi Sefako expressed concerns that smallholder farmers might struggle to care for the animals, especially during droughts, and may not see the benefits of the program.
Botswana may record increased investment
DLA Piper Africa, an international law firm, predicts an increase in investment in Botswana despite potential COVID-19 challenges. The firm's 2022 report highlights investor interest in Southern African countries, including Botswana, due to the lifting of travel restrictions and the end of lockdowns. Botswana's GDP growth is projected to be the highest in Africa for 2021, with a 9.7% increase, driven by diamond sales and GDP account rebasing. The country's stable economic outlook and high vaccination rates are seen as positive indicators for investment, particularly in the diamond mining sector. Terrence Dambe, DLA Piper Africa Botswana's managing partner, also notes the potential for growth in the agriculture sector. Investment Monitor Africa has identified Botswana as one of five African countries poised for increased investment in 2022, following its removal from a list related to money laundering concerns. Botswana recorded significant foreign and domestic investment in 2020, according to the Botswana Investment and Trade Center.
Wildlife attacks on Botswanan farmers increasing
Farmers in Botswana are facing an increased threat of wildlife attacks due to the government's inability to maintain fences that separate wildlife from agricultural lands. Tshepo Monei, a commercial farmer, expressed concerns about the rising number of dangerous animals such as elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and lions on farms, leading to crop damage, livestock predation, and even fatalities among farmers. A study by the Botswana Institute of Development and Policy Analysis highlighted that over 50 farmers have been killed and 80 injured since wildlife began encroaching on farmlands. Researcher Israel Blackie noted that Botswana's large elephant population and diversity of dangerous wildlife are transforming livelihoods, pushing farmers towards government aid programs due to the inability to work after attacks. The Environment Minister, Philda Kereng, acknowledged the issue but did not provide a clear solution, only mentioning a review of compensation for victims.
Botswana Company Fights for Cannabis Cultivation Rights
The Gaborone High Court is set to deliver a judgment regarding Fresh Standard, a Botswana-based company, which is contesting the revocation of its licence to grow hemp and cannabis for industrial purposes. The company's attorney, Charles McErick, reported that the government had initially granted a licence to the company's director, Barend de Beer, but later withdrew it without notice or a hearing. This action led to law enforcement raiding and destroying the crops on De Beer's farm. De Beer claims the revocation of the licence has resulted in the loss of contracts worth approximately P750 million. He had invested heavily in the project, including importing seeds and constructing facilities. The Botswana government, represented by Vice-President Slumber Tsogwane, has stated that it does not support the cultivation of hemp and cannabis, which may explain the licence cancellation. The outcome of the court's decision was pending at the time of the article's publication.
Botswana High Court to Rule on Cannabis Farming Licence
The Gaborone High Court is set to deliver a judgment regarding Fresh Standard, a Botswana-based company, which is contesting the revocation of its licence to grow hemp and cannabis for industrial purposes at Kangwe farms. The company's attorney, Charles McErick, reported that the government had initially granted an exemption and licence to the company's director, Barend de Beer, in 2018, but retracted it in 2019 without notice or a hearing. This action led to law enforcement raiding and destroying the crops. De Beer claims significant financial losses due to broken contracts and investments made in the project. The government, represented by Vice-President Slumber Tsogwane, has expressed a stance against hemp and cannabis farming. The outcome of the court's decision was pending at the time of the article's publication.
Botswana Vegetable Producers Seek Permanent Ban on Imports
Vegetable producers in Botswana are advocating for a permanent ban on the import of certain vegetables from South Africa and other exporting countries. They argue that local farmers are capable of meeting the national demand for vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes, cabbages, carrots, beetroot, and green peppers. The farmers have approached the Botswana government to discuss this proposal and are developing cropping plans to ensure continuous production. However, they are hesitant to invest in expanded production without assurance from supermarkets to purchase their produce. The Ministry of Agriculture's spokesperson, Boikhutso Rabasha, acknowledged the farmers' request but noted that a permanent ban would conflict with Botswana's trade agreements within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
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