The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Nutrition, in collaboration with the Smallholder Agricultural Development Project II (SADP II), is set to host the second annual National Market Day Tomorrow, 26 February, 2025, at Pitso Ground, Maseru, starting at 6:00 AM.
This key event serves as a dynamic platform for local farmers to showcase their produce, expand market reach, and forge direct connections with buyers, agribusinesses, and agricultural service providers.
By fostering direct engagement between farmers and consumers, the event aims to strengthen local agribusiness and create new market opportunities that support the sustainability of Lesotho’s agricultural sector.
Celebrating Farmers, Strengthening Local Markets
The National Market Day not only highlights the vital role of farmers in food production but also advocates for stronger ties between producers and consumers, Vuka Tšabo from the department of marketing in the agriculture ministry explained, citing the event’s primary focus is to boost attendance and visibility for local farmers, encouraging communities to support home-grown produce while promoting economic growth.
Tšabo emphasised that the event is more than just a marketplace—“it’s a step toward sustainable agriculture.”
“Our goal is to help farmers reduce the costs of importing products by creating a one-stop shop for everything they need. This market fosters relationships that can lead to lasting partnerships, ultimately strengthening food security and driving economic growth,” he said.
He also highlighted that this year’s event is bigger and better than before, thanks to increased partnerships and aggressive advertising.
“We’re taking a fresh approach this time, and the response from stakeholders has been incredible,” he added.
A One-Stop Shop for Farmers and Buyers
The event will feature a wide range of agricultural products and services, offering something for everyone—from farmers seeking quality inputs to consumers interested in fresh produce. Attendees can expect stalls showcasing:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Livestock and animal products
- Plant-based goods like milk and yogurt
- Seeds and farming inputs
- Agricultural tools and technology
Agricultural input dealers, local businesses, and institutions will also be present, offering farmers the opportunity to access essential resources without the added cost of sourcing from distant markets.
The event welcomes smallholder farmers, agro-dealers, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about agriculture. It also targets organisations within the agricultural sector that play a critical role in improving farming practices, productivity, and innovation.
Empowering Farmers Through Strategic Partnerships
The success of National Market Day wouldn’t be possible without the involvement of key partners dedicated to uplifting Lesotho’s agricultural sector. Notable contributors include:
- Seahlolo Newspaper
- Newsday Media
- Lerotholi Polytechnic
- Limkokwing University of Creative Technology
- World Food Programme (WFP)
- SADP II
These partnerships have helped expand the scale of the event, ensuring that more farmers benefit from the exposure and resources available.
SADP’s Lasting Impact on Lesotho’s Agriculture
The Smallholder Agricultural Development Project has been instrumental in modernising Lesotho’s farming sector. Through its ongoing initiatives, SADP has improved access to farming inputs, provided training on sustainable practices, and enhanced market access for local farmers.
SADP’s commitment to farmer empowerment has not only increased agricultural productivity but has also contributed to food security and community development. Events like National Market Day reflect SADP’s broader mission to build strong agricultural networks and create resilient farming communities.
A Future Built on Local Agriculture
National Market Day is more than an event—it’s a movement toward self-reliance and economic sustainability. By promoting local markets and empowering farmers, Lesotho is investing in its food systems and strengthening its agricultural economy.
As the country navigates the challenges of climate change, economic instability, and food insecurity, initiatives like this are vital in ensuring that local farmers have the tools, resources, and networks needed to thrive.
The public is encouraged to attend, support local farmers, and be part of Lesotho’s agricultural success story. After all, when farmers grow, the nation prospers.
