Botswana looks to modernise agric with launch of Panda silos
Pauline Dikuelo | Tuesday August 6, 2024 11:58
This advanced facility is designed to streamline operations and enhance efficiency, tripling the storage capacity of farm produce from 30, 000 to 90, 000 metric tonnes. The development is a crucial step towards achieving the country's long-term food security goals, officials have said. During the launch last Wednesday, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Mmusi Kgafela, emphasised the importance of the silos, noting that SEZA has identified and designated Pandamatenga as one of the nine Special Economic Zones (SEZs) that focus on agriculture. “The introduction of these modern silos represents a key component in facilitating that potential, serving as crucial infrastructure assets to sustain and enhance production capabilities in the region,” he said when highlighting Pandamatenga's potential to increase grain production.
The technical components of the SEZA Pandamatenga silos include a stock management facility, grain intake pit, grain transfer systems, pre-cleaning grain discharge, aeration and ventilation systems, fire fighting systems and a motor control centre. These features ensure that the silos are equipped to handle grain storage with the highest standards of efficiency and safety. A standout feature of the silos is their smart technology, which allows for real-time monitoring and management of storage conditions. This fully automated design is managed from a single control point and incorporates world-class technology that modernises grain storage. The smart systems do not only boost productivity but also address critical challenges faced by local farmers in grain handling and preservation. One of the highlights of the facility is its advanced moisture control system, which is designed to maximise grain quality and longevity.
This system continuously monitors the temperatures within the silo bins and is equipped with 72 cooling fans and 68 ventilation fans. These mechanisms automatically engage as needed to maintain optimal conditions, controlling both temperature and humidity to prevent spoilage. Construction of the silos began in March 2020 but faced significant delays as a result of the COVID-19 challenges. At some stage, the project experienced complete site shutdowns for several months due to national lockdowns, and this impacted delivery of imported materials, particularly silo equipment from Turkey. The setbacks created a series of backlogs, but the project has now been successfully delivered.