Sunnyside Dairy Farms plans to invest approximately P175 million in expanding its dairy and fodder production operations, targeting an increase in annual milk output to 22 million litres from the current six million to seven million litres.
The investment is expected to strengthen domestic milk production and reduce Botswana’s dependence on imported dairy products, with the farm projecting that it could eventually supply between 25 and 30 percent of national milk demand.
Managing director Engbert Ter Hofte outlined the expansion plans during an engagement to discuss the company’s operations, investment programme and contribution to the dairy industry.
The project will also increase the farm’s herd from approximately 2,200 animals, including 850 adult cows, to about 2,500.
Ter Hofte said the additional production would continue to supply processing facilities in Gaborone, strengthening the company’s position in the domestic dairy value chain.
The planned investment comes as Botswana seeks to reduce food import dependence and improve domestic agricultural production. However, the extent to which the expansion will displace imports will depend on overall market demand and the capacity of local processors to absorb increased volumes.
Beyond commercial expansion, Sunnyside is considering a community calf initiative through which surplus calves would be made available to selected farmers, alongside training and technical support to improve livestock management.
The programme is intended to widen access to improved dairy genetics and encourage greater participation by smaller producers.
Ter Hofte also acknowledged the cooperation of veterinary authorities during the Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak, highlighting the importance of animal health management in sustaining production.