Chobe Farms reap first harvest, target agro-processing
Mbongeni Mguni | Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:58
Chobe Holdings group managing director, Lempheditse ‘MC’ Odumetse, told Monitor Business the initiative was part of efforts to feed the nation and create employment, in line with the national priorities set by government.
“This is our first harvest from the Chobe Farms project, with potatoes as the first crop,” said. “As the Group MD, I’m proud that this project is helping drive import substitution, create jobs and add value to locally grown produce, while also making food more affordable for consumers.”
Odumetse said potato harvesting has just begun at Chobe Farms, with expected yields of about 40 tonnes per hectare across 10 hectares.
“The farm estimates the crop could generate around P3 million in income, although prices are currently under pressure as more suppliers enter the market at the same time,” he revealed. “Onion harvesting is expected to begin next week, with projected yields of 30 tonnes per hectare from eight hectares. “The onions are expected to be sold at around P70 per 10kg bag.”
The group MD added that fruit production is also doing well, with the farm growing bananas, papayas, lemons, limes and naartjies.
Production is expected to dip slightly between August and October or November after winter. Avocados have also shown strong early results, with about 30 tonnes harvested between March and May in the crop’s first year.
The group managing director said Chobe Farms is now looking beyond fresh produce and wants to focus more on value addition.
“Proposed initiatives include processing fruits into dried and frozen products, and potatoes into frozen chips and wedges. “The farm is also considering a fish and chips outlet,” he said.
Odumetse highlighted that the agricultural operations are contributing to local food supply while also supporting retailers, hawkers, the tourism sector and surrounding communities. He explained that the move reflects a broader strategy to diversify beyond tourism and strengthen resilience in the face of economic challenges.
“These efforts are part of a wider commitment to corporate citizenship, national food security and job creation at a time when many households continue to face economic hardship,” Odumetse said.
Chobe Holdings is one of the country’s largest players in the hospitality sector, with operations spread across various lodges and camps in Botswana. The lodges are strategically located in some of the most pristine and wildlife-rich areas of Botswana, including the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park and the Moremi Game Reserve.
Chobe Farms’ initiatives come as efforts intensity to position the Chobe region as a strategic destination for agro-processing. Earlier this year, the Special Economic Zones Authority held its inaugural Chobe Connect event, bringing together policymakers, investors, industry leaders, financiers, development partners to brainstorm on the region’s potential as an agriculture, agro-processing and crossborder trade hub.