Challenges and stakeholder perspectives on livestock traceability systems in subtropical Botswana for improved food security and economic sustainability

Abstract

This paper examines stakeholder perspectives on the challenges facing livestock traceability in Botswana, focusing on systemic, institutional, and usability constraints that hinder effective implementation. Using a mixed-methods design, the study collected quantitative survey data and qualitative interview narratives from 66 participants, including farmers, veterinary officers, and policy actors, across all nine administrative districts. An NVivo-based analysis revealed that the current Botswana Animal Identification and Traceability System (BAITS) is widely perceived as fragmented, inaccessible, and poorly adapted to local practices, particularly by older and less digitally literate farmers. Key concerns included unreliable infrastructure, lack of inter-institutional coordination, and limited user engagement. Despite these challenges, participants expressed interest in affordable technologies, localised training, and cross-sector integration. While this paper focuses on empirical insights, a separately published solution framework offers a technical response to the issues raised. This study provides a grounded, context-sensitive understanding of livestock traceability in sub-Saharan settings, offering policy and design recommendations for inclusive, interoperable systems.