13 Apr 2025

The Selebi Phikwe Citrus Project is a catalyst to enhance job creation and economic diversification amongst others.

This was said by the Minister for State President, Mr Moeti Mohwasa on Friday during a tour of the project.

He highlighted the potential of the project to transform the economic landscape of Selebi Phikwe and neighboring areas. He said the project significantly contributed to economic diversification owing to the 70 per cent of the first 5000 tonnes harvest and the second anticipated harvest at 20 000 tones securing international markets. 

“This is a critical step forward in revitalising the economy of the area and this is not just about growing citrus fruits, rather it presents a new chapter for the community in terms of job creation, sustainability and economic diversification and a chance to value chains,” he said.

Mr Mohwasa said while the agricultural sector was the backbone of several economic activities, the introduction of the citrus initiative was timely, especially in a region looking out to diversify its economic activities beyond mining which had historically been the mainstay of Selebi Phikwe.

By leveraging local talent and resources, the project promises to create a range of jobs from the role of harvesting fruits, processing and distribution, among others. Mr Mohwasa therefore encouraged the community to take part in the journey.

He said this presented empowerment opportunities and overall benefit to the aspirations of economic revitalisation and diversification, so as to meet the government commitments to Batswana.

For her part, the District Commissioner for Selebi Phikwe, Ms Boikhutso Matenge said the citrus project was one initiative that would promote skill transfer, and serve as an inspiration and motivation for individuals who aspired to venture in the field of citrus farming.

“By providing training and hands on experience, the project helps employees acquire necessary skills they can look up to in future endeavor,” she said. ENDS