Opportunities and Constraints in the Horticultural Sector of Botswana: A SWOT Analysis

Botswana's horticultural sector faces several constraints that impede its growth, as actors are unable to take advantage of opportunities that are created by the market. This study used SWOT analysis to identify the main opportunities and constraints in Botswana's horticulture sector using data collected from a farm survey, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions conducted with other key stakeholders between June and August 2023. The study found that the main constraints in the horticulture sector include expensive inputs, a lack of technical knowledge, low technology uptake, a lack of market access, high in-field and post-harvest losses, limited access to credit, limited processing, and ineffective support systems. The opportunities within the horticulture sector include unmet local demand for both fresh and processed products, productivity gaps, and supportive government policies. To develop the horticulture sector and ensure its sustainability, it is recommended that the identified constraints be addressed by actors and the government. For instance, the government should address the lack of technical skills through the provision of improved extension services, as this would address the low productivity that is brought about by both in-field and post-harvest losses. Additionally, the identified opportunities should be taken up by actors to enhance the sector's performance and sustainability.