Batshegi Utilizes Indigenous Organic Plants
It is fascinating to find out that most local entrepreneurs are now utilizing organic Tswana plants to make natural and tasty food products. Birdbath Foods is one of the companies that has found it vital to produce food products out of local organic plants. The company has various products all centered around agriculture which include; lerotse jam, chili sauce, vegetable atchar and ice tea. Their products have no added chemicals and artificial preservations or colourants. The Company is owned by a passionate, self-cottage farmer and food producer, Gorata Batshegi. The business operates at Knockduff Farm just near Lobatse.
How did you come up with this business concept?
It all started as a need to extend the shelf life of my farm produce be it morogo wa dinawa, lechotlho, kgodu, leswabi and morama. The concept has always been there, the switch to the commercial part was the standard needed and as I was expanding the arable production this was the best concept to pursue.
When did your products reach the market?
Birdbath products officially reached the market in June this year.
Why did you choose to use local organic plants and vegetables?
The idea is to preserve our native foods and also to present varieties of how they can be served.
Are you in partnership with retailers or you are selling directly to the customers?
We are not in partnership with any retailers now, however we have a cordial relationship with local farmers and our role is essential part of value. When all the necessary requirements are met we will get to the shops. In the meantime we are selling directly to the customers.
What challenges have you encountered so far?
I had encountered few challenges. Firstly, the food manufacturing process is a nutriscience component. There is so much to the product than just taste, as an entrepreneur I had to make sure that my products are in good condition, and are not contaminated. The other thing is financial problems, manufacturing foods needs a lot of resources with turns to be costly. To me the biggest solution of my problems is patience and dedication. If you had passion of doing something you will never give up no matter how difficult the road can be.
What advice would you like to give aspiring entrepreneurs?
If you want to start a business, research and learning are keys. It can be a lonely part as people are always willing to share information but one has to be always willing to reach out and find answers, the niche and potential markets for your products.
Facebook: Birdbath Projects
Cellphone: 71798177/74975149
Email: batshegigorata@gmail.com
Takudzwa Joylene Chigura 
Administrator