Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Serowe
- Category: Agriculture
- Closing Date: 2026-08-30
Key Responsibilities
- Provide hands-on support in the day-to-day operations of the farm.
- Crop production.
- Livestock management.
- Irrigation.
- General farm maintenance.
Requirements
- Junior Certificate (JC) or Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) will be an added advantage.
- At least 5 years’ practical experience in farming, preferably in a mixed farming environment.
- Demonstrable experience in crop production, intercropping, livestock management and irrigation.
- Practical knowledge of basic farm tools, equipment and agricultural practices.
- Experience working on a commercial or small-scale farm will be an added advantage.
- Must be physically fit and able to work outdoors for extended periods and perform manual work.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for farm worker roles in Botswana?
No formal academic qualifications are mandatory, but basic literacy and numeracy are expected. Some employers prefer candidates with prior experience in crop cultivation, livestock handling, or completion of short agricultural training courses offered by BOTA or the Ministry of Agriculture.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities for farm workers at commercial farmlands like Tshelho Farmlands in Serowe?
Duties commonly include land preparation, planting, weeding, irrigation, harvesting, animal feeding, and routine maintenance of equipment and infrastructure. Work hours often follow sunrise-to-sunset schedules, especially during peak seasons, and may involve teamwork under supervision of a foreman or farm manager.
How does local work culture in Botswana influence expectations for farm workers?
Respect for hierarchy and elders is valued, so workers are expected to follow instructions respectfully and communicate openly with supervisors. Punctuality, reliability, and willingness to adapt to seasonal demands — such as drought response or harvest urgency — are highly regarded in rural agricultural settings.
Are there realistic opportunities for career progression from a farm worker role in Botswana’s agriculture sector?
Yes — with experience and initiative, workers can advance to roles like team leader, tractor operator, or livestock attendant, especially after gaining skills through on-the-job training or government-supported programmes like the National Agricultural Extension Programme. Some pursue further certification via BOTA or the University of Botswana’s agricultural short courses to qualify for supervisory or technical positions.
What benefits (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) are typically offered to farm workers in Botswana?
Formal employment usually includes statutory benefits: 24 days of annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave as per the Employment Act. Medical aid and pension contributions are less common for entry-level farm workers unless employed by larger registered farms that comply fully with NSSA and private health schemes.
How should I apply for this role, and what do employers in Botswana typically look for in farm worker applicants?
Applications are usually made in person at the farm office or via referrals from local community leaders or agricultural extension officers in Serowe. Employers prioritise honesty, physical fitness, proven reliability, and familiarity with local farming practices — references from previous employers or village headmen carry significant weight in rural hiring.