Nutritional success in a semi-arid land: examination of Tswana agro-pastoralists of the eastern Kalahari, Botswana

Abstract

The cultural and environmental factors affecting the food quest and nutritional status of the Moshaweng Tlokwa, a Tswana agro-pastoral society occupying the semi-arid eastern Kalahari Desert of Botswana, are examined. Data are presented on methods of food procurement, storage, preparation, and preservation. Tlokwa diet is based on agriculture-horticulture and animal husbandry but a surprising number of wild species are regularly used as food. This pattern is nutritionally protective and viewed by the author as a principal reason for Tlokwa dietary success in their semi-arid environment. Data are presented on food habits, dietary prohibitions, and characteristic diets of infants, children, adolescents, and adults. Many Tlokwa foods are encouraged or prohibited on the basis of the consumers age, sex, and social development. Such patterns reduce competition for dietary resources, assure a more equitable distribution of food, and sustain the nutritional quality of diet. During 1973 to 1975 the Tlokwa appeared healthy and well fed; heavy rain-fall had just broken a 7-year drought. Kwashiorkor-marasmus, avitaminosis, or other classical signs of malnutrition were not observed. A trend towards bottle feeding was noted. Children and adolescents are rapidly losing their ability to identify edible wild food resources. The author concludes that the Tlokwa heretofore have coped satisfactorily with drought in their semi-arid territory and recommends continued diversification of their food quest. Diversity is viewed as essential if the Tlokwa are to maintain their nutritional well-being in coming decades.