Orange farmer decries lack of government subsidy
Friday, September 07, 2018
Little government support for fruit farmers
Magwana is the only Motswana in Bobirwa and Tuli Block area who produces oranges to supply the country. His farm is in Molalatau village.
He told Mmegi that despite his quest to contribute towards the country being self-sufficient in food production to reduce the import bill, he continues to incur huge costs on electricity, fertilisers and pest control chemicals.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...