The localisation of the SPC project in Botswana poses a unique challenge due to the lack of available managers and expertise in citrus production. Therefore, experienced Citrus Production Managers with a minimum of 10 years of industry experience have been appointed. Their role is to oversee the development of citrus orchards, facilitate knowledge transfer to future Motswana Citrus Production managers, and enable access to global export markets. This strategic approach ensures long-term growth and success for the project.
In January 2022, SPC initiated a program to localise its workforce by appointing two Batswana understudies from BUAN and the University of Botswana for in-service training in citrus production. Upon completing their training, the understudies were promoted to Assistant Production Managers at SPC (Tlhonolofatso Ogolotse and Jimmy Moatswi). Additionally, two Batswana were appointed as Production Assistants for in-service training, with the opportunity to apply for Junior Production Managers positions after gaining five years of experience (Thatayaone Kwape and Kabelo Oitsile). This localisation initiative aims to cultivate a skilled pool of managers for future management roles at Selebi Phikwe Citrus.
Selebi Phikwe Citrus receives specialised citrus training from an experienced Hoedspruit-based training centre. In December 2016, Blydevallei Sitrus and two other farms established the accredited Hoedspruit Hub. With ISO 9001:2015 certification and accreditations from QCTO, AgriSETA, MERSETA, and Services SETA, the Hub offers customised programmes to address unique training needs. Recently, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with BUAN to enhance knowledge transfer and industry training at the farm.
