By Kabelo Masoabi
Lesotho’s agricultural sector is on the cusp of transformation with the development of the National Agricultural Research Policy.
Spearheaded by the Department of Agricultural Research (DAR), under the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Nutrition, this policy represents a pivotal step toward establishing a coordinated and accountable research system. The ultimate goal is to ensure agricultural innovation that drives food security, economic growth, and poverty alleviation.
The Significance of a Research Policy for Lesotho
For decades, the agricultural sector in Lesotho has grappled with fragmented research efforts and a lack of cohesive policies and this has hampered the ability to address critical challenges such as food insecurity, climate resilience, and sustainable farming practices.
Dr. Lefulesele Lebesa, Director of DAR, explained the importance of this policy in creating a unified vision for agricultural research.
“A comprehensive research policy enables the alignment of agricultural priorities with national development goals and provides the structure needed to ensure that research findings are translated into actionable solutions for farming communities.”
She indicated that agricultural research is globally acknowledged as a cornerstone of sectoral modernisation.
“Countries that have invested in robust research and development frameworks have successfully achieved not only food security but also broader community development and economic stability. For Lesotho, such a framework offers the potential to unlock untapped opportunities, enhancing agricultural productivity and commercialisation.”
Bridging Gaps with a Coordinated System
Currently, Lesotho’s National Agricultural Research System (NARS) is comprised of public research institutions, academic entities, and extension services. However, the lack of coordination has resulted in inefficiencies, limiting the sector’s capacity to deliver impactful solutions.
Dr. Lebesa emphasised that the policy will address the ministry’s challenges by streamlining research activities to avoid duplication, establishing cohesive teams focused on shared objectives and aligning institutional efforts to address key sectoral challenges, such as climate change adaptation and poverty eradication.
The proposed policy, Dr. Lebesa said would also integrate indigenous knowledge systems with modern agricultural technologies.
Stakeholders such as Professor Toying Peter Abegunrin, a researcher at the National University of Lesotho, underscored the value of local knowledge.
He pointed to the success of indigenous practices during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting their sustainability and relevance for rural farming communities.
“Local farmers possess critical expertise about their environment and practices therefore recognising and incorporating this knowledge into formal research can enhance resilience and innovation,” he noted.
Policy Objectives and Thematic Focus
The National Agricultural Research Policy is built on eight thematic areas aimed at transforming the sector:
- Policy and Regulatory Environment: Creating a robust framework for research governance.
- Institutional Arrangements: Strengthening coordination among stakeholders.
- Research Management: Enhancing efficiency and accountability.
- Knowledge Generation: Driving innovation through cutting-edge research.
- Technology Commercialisation: Scaling innovations for broader adoption.
- Capacity Building: Investing in human resources and infrastructure.
- Information Systems: Developing platforms for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
- Sustainable Funding: Securing financial resources for long-term research sustainability.
Dr. Lebesa also revealed plans for a national agricultural research bill to institutionalise the policy and provide legal backing for its implementation.
Stakeholder Engagement: A Collaborative Path Forward
The policy development process has been inclusive, with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds contributing their insights.
Farmers like Kutloano Jonathan Molapo highlighted the critical role of grassroots participation:
“We must ensure that farmers’ voices are central in shaping this policy. Agriculture directly impacts food security and livelihoods, and policies should reflect the realities faced by those on the ground,” he said adding that workshops and consultations, such as the recent validation meeting in Maseru, have provided a platform for stakeholders to align their expectations and propose actionable strategies.
Charting the Future of Agricultural Research
DAR, with support from the World Bank-funded Agricultural Productivity Programme for Southern Africa (APPSA), is poised to drive agricultural innovation.
“By prioritising research and technology transfer, the department of research aims to elevate both subsistence and commercial farming practices, ensuring sustainable development and natural resource preservation,” Dr. Lebesa said.
She stressed that the National Agricultural Research Policy is not just a regulatory document but a transformative vision for Lesotho’s agriculture.
“With its focus on coordination, innovation, and inclusivity, the policy is going to set the stage for an agricultural renaissance through bridging research gaps, empowering local farmers, and fostering collaboration.”
