Botswana farmers Launch first Turmeric Export to Europe

BYMERCY NAMFUKWE

BOTSWANA is entering the global spice market as 24 local turmeric farmers prepare for the country’s first export shipment to Europe. The project is led by Global African Herbal Solutions. The farmers, experts and logistics teams are working under pressure after frost and late planting caused some crops not to grow well.

A training workshop was held at Two Nine Farm in Kopong. Farmers were taught how to harvest turmeric, dry it properly, prevent contamination, and meet European Union (EU) standards. They were also guided on organic certification and export logistics to Germany.

The first export shipment is expected to be loaded in the second week of August. This project may help Botswana earn foreign currency, create jobs and increase government tax income. It also shows that high-value crops like turmeric can grow even in dry areas like Kgalagadi.

Some of the 24 farmers have asked for more time because their crops were affected by frost. The frost damaged leaves after late planting and the crops need more time to fully grow.

This issue was discussed during the Kopong workshop, Farmers were told about harvesting methods, post-harvest handling and transport requirements.

Furthermore, Farmers were also told about EU rules to make sure their products meet export standards. Some farmers hope warmer weather after winter will help new leaves grow. This may improve the crop and increase yield and profit. However, experts said each farmer must decide for themselves whether to wait or harvest.

Waiting for new growth could extend production until December, creating another growing cycle. Farmers who will harvest this season were advised to stop irrigation, arrange workers for harvesting, and prepare drying and storage facilities. Crop insurance was also discussed as important for the next two months.

Harvesting is expected to start in about five weeks, followed by about two weeks of drying before export preparation.

A farmer, Mr. Samuel Kealots we from Palapye, said the training helped farmers under stand that not everyone may be ready to harvest at the same time if they want better returns.

Read more in the July 2026 issue https://www.agricoopnews.com/e-publications

‍