Kenyan Farmer Finds Success with Over 1000 Cattle in Botswana's Agricultural Sector

The agricultural industry is a powerful contributor to Botswana's economy, second only to the diamond trade.

This sector offers substantial opportunities for those engaged in crop cultivation and livestock rearing. One such success story is Wilfred Mwiti Kathurima, a Kenyan lawyer who has thrived in Botswana's agricultural landscape. In search of better prospects, Kathurima left his home country in 1984, initially settling in Zambia. Recognizing Botswana's greater potential for agricultural pursuits, he relocated once again. Through perseverance and hard work, Kathurima has transformed his modest cattle post into a sprawling ranch known as Nakatsakgama farm.

Encompassing 22,000 acres, the farm houses over 1,000 cattle raised for beef, dairy production, and other commercial uses. Kathurima meticulously manages his ranch, dividing it into five distinct sections. Each section serves a specific purpose, housing cattle of a particular type or at a designated stage of development. Bulls nearing market readiness occupy the first camp, while a separate camp houses the prized Boran breed, reserved for sale during periods of high demand.

"We strategically schedule the sale of our cattle three times a year," Kathurima explains.

Additionally, the farm offers breeding stock and young female cows for purchase before mating. Cattle are priced competitively, with variations based on size, breed, and gender. An adult male can fetch up to Ksh 400,000 while a young female is valued at approximately Sh 75,000. Kathurima's ambitions extend beyond his flourishing Botswana ranch. Given the opportunity to secure a sizeable plot of land, he aspires to replicate his success in his native Kenya.

Kathurima's expertise extends beyond agriculture. He previously served as the President of the Real Estate Institute of Botswana and holds esteemed qualifications in land economics, valuation surveying, property management, and estate agency. He is a respected member of various professional organizations including the Real Estate Advisory Council of Botswana and the Real Estate Institutes of Botswana, Kenya, Zambia, and South Africa.