Seabata Mahao
A new wave of opportunity is opening up for farmers and agribusinesses in Lesotho as the Competitiveness and Financial Inclusion (CAFI) Project rolls out the second cohort of its deciduous fruit horticultural incubation programme.
The expansion comes as the Government of Lesotho continues to position agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and diversification. Through CAFI, there is a deliberate push to strengthen the horticulture sector, particularly deciduous fruit production, as a pathway to sustainability and increased export potential.
The programme has already gained traction, supporting 10 farms across Leribe, Berea, Maseru, and Mafeteng. With the second cohort now open, farmers across the country are being invited to convert underutilised land into productive orchards.
In an interview with Seahlolo, CAFI Communications Specialist Lihaelo Nkaota said the selection criteria are designed to prioritise both viability and long-term impact.
“Applicants must have access to between three and five hectares of suitable land. The land may be owned or leased, but any lease agreement must run for at least 30 years,” Nkaota explained.
She added that applicants must submit proof of land ownership or lease agreements, such as Form Cs or sublease documents, verified by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition.
Access to reliable water remains one of the most critical requirements.
“Orchard sites must be close to dependable irrigation sources. Fruit production depends on a consistent water supply, especially as trees mature,” she said.
Infrastructure is another key consideration. Farms must be within two kilometres of a well-maintained road to allow for the efficient movement of inputs and produce. In addition, applicants must have access to electricity within a 0.5-kilometre radius or demonstrate viable alternative energy solutions to support irrigation and operations.
Applications for the programme close on April 16, 2026.
The first cohort has already produced encouraging results. Seven deciduous fruit farms have been established and are currently under full incubation, with more than 60,000 trees planted. A total of 190 farmers have been trained, including 46 women and 53 youth, reflecting a deliberate effort to broaden participation.
Progress has also been made on infrastructure, with irrigation systems being installed across participating farms. Agreements outlining responsibilities and cost-sharing between CAFI and farmers have been finalised, while a co-financing model is being developed to attract further investment.
These efforts are anchored by the Lesotho Horticulture Incubation and Training Centre (LHITC) in Mahobong, Leribe. The centre operates in partnership with the National University of Lesotho and sits alongside pilot commercial farms.
Since its establishment in May 2023, LHITC has focused on building farmers’ technical capacity, improving market access, and promoting climate-smart practices. It also aims to address long-standing constraints in the sector, including limited access to land, infrastructure, finance, and extension services.
The expansion of the programme signals a broader national push to move beyond traditional agriculture and build a more competitive, export-oriented sector.
By investing in high-value deciduous fruits, the initiative is expected to improve farmer incomes, create jobs, and drive rural economic activity.