By Lorato B. Kgakatsi
Farming is not just about the land or the cattle. It’s about independence, empowerment, and staying connected to the earth, which has always been part of my story. It represents growth—both personal and financial—and gives me the opportunity to carve out a livelihood that sustains not only my family but also my community's food security.
I am Kushata Moesi, a Motswana woman who has chosen to pursue cattle farming, despite being one of the few women in this field. I’ve been in the game for eight years now, and I run a commercial cattle farm on a 4,000-hectare plot just outside the village of Mmashoro, about 450 kilometers from Gaborone, Botswana. This farm has been in my family for generations, and my love for cattle runs deep. My father raised me among cattle, and that bond has shaped my journey.
What drives me today is my passion for finding climate-adaptable cattle and profitable breeds. But it hasn’t been easy. The cattle industry has become increasingly difficult, especially with the challenges brought on by climate change—prolonged droughts, disease outbreaks, and high mortality rates among cattle. These factors lead to low production and financial losses, which is why I decided to import breeds like Chianina, Bonsmara, and Santa Gertrudis. These breeds are more resilient and bring in better market value, which is key for my business’s survival.
Being a woman in a male-dominated industry isn’t without its struggles. There’s always that assumption from men that we, as women, don’t know anything about farming. In this line of work, most of the workers are men, which can be isolating—especially when you’re out in the bush, surrounded by miles of land and few people. It’s not just lonely; it’s a safety concern, too. Without reliable network coverage, I’ve often found myself unable to call for help in an emergency. It can be tough.
And don’t get me started on the prejudices some men have against women in this industry. There have been plenty of moments where I’ve felt undermined simply because I’m a woman. But instead of letting it hold me back, I chose to learn. I sought out other farmers, asked questions, and enrolled in professional courses to deepen my knowledge. One of the best decisions I made was learning about artificial insemination. It’s a game-changer—reducing the cost of purchasing cattle and increasing the chances of stock improvement. It’s helped my farm run more efficiently, and I’ve seen the results.
But despite the challenges, I remain hopeful. The Botswana government is taking steps to make the agricultural sector more gender-inclusive. Programs like Temo Letlotlo and Thuo Letlotlo are game-changers. These initiatives allow women to own livestock independently, which fosters economic equality and strengthens agricultural productivity. By narrowing the gender gap, the sector becomes more innovative, sustainable, and resilient.
To all the women out there, I say this: don’t let gender stop you from thriving in any industry. Farming isn’t just about making a living—it’s about preserving our cultural heritage and paving the way for future generations of women in agriculture. Let’s step forward, and together, we can shape the future. Happy Women’s Month!
The author is a Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Land & Agriculture and also a CCARDESA ICKM Focal point person for Botswana.
