Botswana imports Brazilian cattle to boost dairy production

The Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) is expanding the Milk Valley Farm in Lobatse through the phased importation of high-yielding Girolando cattle from Brazil. A recent consignment of 205 cattle has arrived, following an initial shipment in July. With another 206 cattle expected shortly, the total number of imported cows is approaching 600 out of a planned 1,000.

The project aims to transform the farm into a modern dairy operation with a target herd of approximately 3,000 cattle and an annual production capacity of 15 million litres. This initiative is designed to strengthen national food security, reduce Botswana’s reliance on dairy imports from neighboring South Africa, and foster a competitive domestic dairy industry.

To support this expansion, BDC has invested in significant infrastructure, including a 72-point rotary milking parlour, modern housing, expanded water systems, and improved biosecurity facilities. Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship Tiroeaone Ntsima noted that the investment is intended to build local capacity and keep economic value within the country.