The Botswana government is preparing a multi-million pula investment to revive the country’s ostrich industry as it seeks to tap growing global demand for ostrich products and reduce the economy’s dependence on diamonds.
Minister of Lands and Agriculture Dr Edwin Dikoloti said government had identified promising export opportunities but would first focus on rebuilding domestic production to ensure Botswana could supply overseas markets consistently.
‘There is growing demand for ostrich meat and products in the international market,’ Dikoloti said. ‘Once we are satisfied that local production can meet the required volumes, we will intensify discussions with these potential markets.’
The renewed focus comes as Botswana accelerates efforts to diversify exports following a prolonged downturn in the diamond industry, which has weighed heavily on economic growth and government revenues.
Although Botswana has an estimated 60,000 wild ostriches, its commercial farming industry has virtually collapsed. The number of farmed birds has fallen to fewer than 400 after ostrich ranches and processing facilities closed, leaving many farmers burdened with debt.
Dikoloti said government was reviving the long-defunct Dibete ostrich multiplication ranch as part of efforts to rebuild breeding stock. Last year the facility hatched 269 chicks, which were distributed to 29 farmers. The Ostrich Association is now targeting 6,000 hatchlings before year-end.
Government is also encouraging local production of feed ingredients such as sunflower to reduce reliance on costly imports and lower production costs. In addition, the Department of Wildlife is assisting with the capture of ostriches from game reserves to strengthen breeding programmes.
A new agricultural financing strategy is also being developed to improve access to capital for small and medium-scale farmers as government seeks to restore investor confidence and position Botswana to benefit from expanding international demand for ostrich meat, leather and other high-value products.