The Ministry for State President, Defence and Security invites applications from highly motivated, well experienced and self-driven candidates to fill vacant position tenable at various Government Offices in Tonota
Job Summary
- Employer: Tonota District – Ministry for State President, Defence and Security
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Gardening
- Salary: A2 (P36,444 – P42,024 per annum)
- Closing Date: 2026-09-25
Key Responsibilities
- To perform gardening duties, maintain clean and healthy facility grounds.
- Prepares seedbeds including tilling soil and erection of sheds, sows flower seeds randomly, and waters seed bed regularly.
- Decides when seedlings are big enough to transplant or refers to planting instructions.
- Prepares plot and transplants seedlings onto plot or the spot in the yard determined by supervisor.
- Waters flowers and other plants in the garden regularly.
- Identifies weeds and pulls these out from the lawn.
- Trims hedge and lawn to level deemed necessary.
- Sweeps the yard and clears litter in the yard.
- Dumps litter in rubbish pit at a point designated by supervisor.
- Loads refuse and dumps to approved Council spot.
- Undertakes any other duties as assigned by the supervisor
Requirements
- To be considered for appointment to this position, candidates must have a minimum of Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) certificate.
- Direct entry.
- Experience in gardening will be an added advantage
- Adhering to Principles and Values
- Following Instructions and Procedures
- Adapting and responding to change
- Deciding and initiating action
- Planning and Organizing
- Creativity and Innovation
Salary
A2 (P36,444 – P42,024 per annum)
How to Apply
All applicants should quote the Reference and Vacancy Circular Number of this advert and provide the following: Detailed and updated Curriculum Vitae with duties; Certified copies of Certificates and Omang; At least one (1) recent work related references confirming the required experience if any. Applications should be addressed to: The District Commissioner, Office of the District Commissioner, P/Bag T10, Tonota OR HAND DELIVERED TO: Records Management Unit, Office number A11, Block A, RAC. For further information, please contact Administration Unit at 2485978.
REF Code: ODC/TNT/4/2/4 II (23) | Vacancy Circular No: 4 of 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to apply for a Gardener position with the Botswana government?
A Junior Certificate or equivalent is typically required for entry-level gardening roles in Botswana's public service. Practical experience in horticulture, landscaping, or maintenance work is highly valued even without formal certification. Some positions may prefer candidates with short courses in agriculture or gardening from local institutions like BCA or brigades.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a government Gardener in Botswana?
Daily tasks include maintaining lawns, trimming hedges, watering plants, and keeping government grounds clean and presentable. You may also handle basic pest control, soil preparation, and planting of flowers or trees. Seasonal duties often involve clearing dry vegetation and preparing gardens for Botswana's dry winter months.
What is the work culture like for Gardeners in Botswana's public sector?
Government gardening roles follow standard public service hours, typically 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM with respect for lunch breaks. Punctuality and reliability are essential, as grounds must be maintained regardless of weather conditions. Senior staff and supervisors expect respectful communication and teamwork, with Setswana cultural norms of courtesy applying in workplace interactions.
Are there opportunities for career growth from a Gardener position in Botswana?
With experience and additional training, Gardeners can progress to Senior Gardener, Horticulturist, or Grounds Supervisor roles within government departments. Pursuing diploma courses in horticulture or environmental science at BCA or UB opens doors to agricultural extension or parks management positions. Some experienced staff transition into private landscaping businesses or consultancy work.
What benefits typically come with full-time Gardener positions in Botswana's government?
Public service Gardeners generally receive pension contributions through the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund, annual leave of 24-30 working days, and paid public holidays. Medical aid schemes are often available though terms vary by ministry and grade. Uniforms and protective equipment are usually provided for outdoor work.
How should I apply for government Gardener positions in Botswana, and what do employers look for?
Applications are submitted through the Directorate of Public Service Management or specified ministry channels with certified copies of certificates, omang, and a detailed CV. Employers prioritize candidates demonstrating physical fitness, reliability, and genuine interest in horticultural work. Including references from previous gardening or maintenance roles significantly strengthens your application.
