The atmosphere at the Manthabiseng Convention Centre was alive with energy and community spirit as the IACoV project celebrated the close of its fourth year.
The event, marked by a lively market day, also served as the official launch of Phase II, signalling a renewed commitment to agricultural resilience and food security in Lesotho.
Both the indoor and outdoor spaces of the venue were transformed into a colourful marketplace, bustling with stalls and branded tents that showcased an impressive variety of locally produced goods.
From the early hours, exhibitors and guests strolled between displays, exploring innovations, purchasing handmade products, and engaging in vibrant discussions around nutrition, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Thabo Mofosi, officiated the celebration and applauded IACoV’s accomplishments over the past four years.
He highlighted the critical role of Phase II and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting local farmers and addressing food insecurity.
“We will be doing rounds in all 10 districts, bringing services directly to farmers in the form of training and support,” Mofosi announced.
He added, “This is part of our initiative to not only curb food insecurity but also to help farmers with access to sustainable markets.”
The day unfolded with a spirit of celebration.
Performers took to the stage, drawing cheers and dance from the audience. A particularly memorable moment was the unveiling of a new song by local artist Sannere, composed in collaboration with IACoV to reflect the project’s mission.
As the anthem played, the crowd danced in unison, capturing the sense of unity and shared purpose driving the initiative.
Among those showcasing their work was ‘Makhants’e Sehobai from the Abia Nutrition Club, whose group’s mission is to support their families through nutritious, home-grown produce.
“The response from visitors has been extraordinary. Our stall has been swept clean. People have shown overwhelming support, and we are deeply grateful to IACoV for making this possible,” she said with a smile.
The event closed on a high note, celebrating the impactful achievements of Phase I while casting a hopeful vision for the future. With Phase II now officially launched, IACoV is set to deepen its efforts, continuing to serve as a cornerstone in Lesotho’s journey toward a climate-resilient, food-secure future.
