Botswana’s Selebi Phikwe Citrus project is poised to achieve a remarkable four-fold increase in citrus fruit production this year, projecting a harvest of 20,000 tonnes.
The 1200-hectare horticultural development near Selebi Phikwe in the central district of Botswana produced 5,000 tonnes of grapefruit, lemons and orange varieties during its inaugural harvest in 2024.
Running from April to September, the project’s second-ever harvest reflects the growth potential of the multi-million Pula project, which spans approximately 1,000 hectares of land.
Project Manager Johan van Vuuren attributed the success to strategic planning and favourable conditions.
Established to boost the local economy, the citrus project aims to transform Selebi Phikwe into a hub for agricultural development and employment opportunities following the closure of the town’s copper-nickel mine.
With this year’s anticipated yield, the project is cementing its role in contributing to food production, exports and economic diversification in Botswana.
JN/APA