Botswana launches national fodder strategy to boost livestock feed security

BOTSWANA – Botswana has launched a National Fodder Strategy aimed at reducing dependence on imported animal feed, strengthening livestock productivity and improving resilience against climate shocks and disease disruptions in the livestock sector.

The strategy, unveiled in Gaborone by Minister of Lands and Agriculture Edwin Dikoloti, focuses on scaling up local production of climate-resilient fodder crops such as lablab and lucerne. 

It is part of a broader government effort to build a more self-sufficient and competitive livestock industry in a country where feed availability is heavily affected by drought.

“Feed security is the foundation of a resilient livestock industry for any country. More so for an arid country like ours,” Dikoloti said.

The government plans to raise agriculture’s contribution to GDP from 2 per cent to between 6 per cent and 10 per cent over the next five years. 

It also aims to expand the national cattle herd to five million as part of its livestock development agenda.

Officials say the strategy will significantly reshape the country’s feed outlook. 

By 2030, demand for livestock feed is expected to rise by about 103 per cent, driven by herd expansion and productivity growth. 

The dairy sector is projected to grow by 60 per cent, while dairy imports could decline by nearly 75 per cent if domestic production expands as planned.

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) representative in Botswana Carla Mucavi described the initiative as a key milestone for the country’s agricultural transformation, particularly in a semi-arid environment where rainfall is increasingly unpredictable.

She said the strategy is “timely and strategic,” adding that it strengthens Botswana’s ability to manage climate risks affecting livestock production.

Mucavi also linked fodder security to broader livestock health and disease resilience, noting that outbreaks such as foot-and-mouth disease can restrict animal movement and disrupt access to feed markets.

She said stronger local fodder systems, combined with strategic feed reserves, would help farmers maintain herd health during movement restrictions and reduce forced livestock sales during drought periods.

The strategy is expected to improve feed availability during dry seasons, stabilise production costs and reduce reliance on imported feed ingredients, which often expose farmers to price volatility.

It also aligns with wider regional efforts in Southern Africa to strengthen livestock resilience through improved feed systems, enhanced drought preparedness, and integrated animal health management.

By prioritising domestic fodder production, Botswana is positioning feed security as a core pillar of livestock sector growth, with the aim of supporting farmers, improving productivity and strengthening long-term food security.

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