Enhancing the commercial value of sorghum in Botswana

Sorghum is one of the main staple food crops for the worlds' poorest and most food-insecure people (FAO and ICRISAT 1996). The high physiological adaptation of sorghum to acquire and retain moisture (Crawfurd and Peacork 1993, Meeske and Basson 1995) has made it genetically suited to hot and dry areas (FAO and ICRISAT 1996). Meeke and Basson (1995) reported that a sorghum plant has twice the amount of secondary roots on each primary root, which enables it to absorb moisture more effectively than other cereal crops such as maize. In addition, reduction of moisture loss is made possible by the low leaf transpiration rates which is one half of that of maize (Black et al, 1980). Its ability to evade short droughts by going dormant and resuming growth as soon as there is sufficient moisture (Black et al 1980) is another adaptation mechanism for survival in low rainfall areas. These attributes make sorghum suitable for a country like Botswana and therefore calls for the improvement of efficiency of its production. There are opportunities to increase the products made from sorghum. These products include refined flour, different brands of beer, infant foods, bread flour, breakfast cereals and pet foods. As livestock feed, sorghum grain can be used to formulate rations for both non-ruminants (pigs and poultry) and ruminants (sheep, goats and cattle). Sorghum by-products if harvested timely and processed for efficient utilisation, can also be of value to animals. Due to the frequent droughts in Botswana and given the unique agronomic features of sorghum, the crop has a advantage over other cereals. However, due to low prices offered to sorghum producers there is no cost advantage for farmers to increase their production of sorghum. If the status quo continues there will be a decline in sorghum production and with this an increase in imports and loss of revenue. A strategy needs to be developed that will enhance the value of sorghum, such that farmers will find it valuable to grow. Sorghum is a sleeping giant of Botswana cereal grain industry that needs to be awaken.