The Okavango Delta, one of the world’s most ecologically significant inland deltas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to unique biodiversity and remote communities facing critical challenges. Increasing drought, food insecurity, and climate change threaten the livelihoods of villages like Tsutsubega and Gogomoga in Botswana. These communities endure isolation, limited infrastructure, and scarce resources a reality that calls for urgent, sustainable solutions.
Wild Impact, with the generous support of &Beyond, Travel Elevates, the Royal African Foundation, and Making Energy Greener, has stepped up to meet this challenge. The Agriculture and Food Security Project, initiated in early 2024, focuses on sustainable farming, community empowerment, and ecosystem conservation. Its aim: to shift the narrative from vulnerability to resilience through a collaborative, locally driven approach.
The project began with extensive community engagement, understanding specific needs and barriers. Facilitators Tumelo Chetiso and Lindy Geagamang led the charge in setting up infrastructure and introducing climate-smart agriculture techniques. Solar-powered boreholes replaced unreliable water sources, nine-strand electric fencing protected crops from wildlife, and shade houses improved seedling survival during increasingly intense heat waves.
By mid-2024, land preparation and fencing were complete and seed propagation began shortly after. The communal farming model encourages shared responsibility and resource pooling, transforming vulnerable plots into thriving farms. The first harvest in January 2025 yielded over 4,200 kg of fresh vegetables, including mealies, spinach, baby marrows, and watermelons. This harvest not only contributed to food security but also created local employment, with two women serving as Agri facilitators training farmers and managing daily operations.
Beyond production, the project has fostered economic empowerment. Partnerships with regional lodges like &Beyond and Kwando Safaris have opened commercial markets, and local youth were recruited into the &Beyond Chef Training School to integrate farm produce into their culinary programs. This circular economy model is helping communities to generate income while reinforcing sustainable practices.
Reflecting this sentiment, Mr Philemon Kapinga, Chairperson of the Gogomoga Action Group, shared that the project has made significant contributions to the infrastructural development within their community, and how incredibly proud they are of the positive impact it has had. Not only has it enhanced the physical layout of their community, but it has also played a crucial role in transforming their way of life.
In addition to improved farming practices, the project has greatly contributed to capacity building within the community. Many of the residents have gained new skills and knowledge through hands-on experience in the farming process. The knowledge shared through this initiative has empowered them to improve their agricultural practices and build a more sustainable future for the community.
“Thanks to the project, we have become more resilient to the challenges posed by our harsh climate.
We are now able to cultivate crops throughout the year, ensuring a steady supply of food and income.
This shift has been invaluable in helping us adapt and thrive despite the environmental challenges we face…
We are grateful for this opportunity and look forward to continuing our growth, both as individuals and as a community.”
– Mr Philemon Kapinga, Chairperson of the Gogomoga Action Group
The Agriculture and Food Security Project marks a turning point for Tsutsubega and Gogomoga. By combining smart infrastructure, climate-adaptive farming, and community-led management, Wild Impact and its partners have laid the foundation for lasting food security and economic opportunity. With continued support and local leadership, these communities are reclaiming their agency and building sustainable futures amidst environmental uncertainty.
Wild Impact is a Public Benefit Organisation registered in South Africa. Reg. No.: 930002115