It was a day of music, colour and heartfelt celebration at Pontseng, in the district of Thaba-Tseka, as farmers, nutrition clubs and community members gathered to honour the remarkable journey of Ntseo Seedlings and Vegetables Farm.
Smiles filled the air, hands clapped to the rhythm of ululations and the energy was unmistakable, this was not just a graduation, but a story of triumph born from resilience.
After years of hard work and perseverance, Palesa Ntseo, founder of Ntseo Seedlings, stood proudly beside trays of healthy and appealing seedlings as her farm celebrated its graduation from the Smallholder Agricultural Development Project II (SADP II) — marking the end of a transformative chapter that began in 2020.
“This day means everything to us. We’ve walked a long road and today, we finally celebrate what patience and partnership can achieve,” she said joyfully.
The event brought together a spirited mix of farmers, SADP II representatives and local nutrition clubs, each recognising the farm’s contribution to food security and livelihoods in one of Lesotho’s most challenging farming regions.
Speaking on behalf of SADP II, Maisaka Litsetsane described the celebration as a moment of pride not only for Ntseo but for all farmers who have worked tirelessly to adapt to climate challenges.
“Today we celebrate Ntseo Seedlings for completing a long and demanding journey. From a group of eighteen, seventeen farmers, including Ntseo, have reached this stage. It took discipline, resilience, and passion, we are very proud of them,” she said.
She added that as climate change continues to alter farming conditions, SADP II’s support helps farmers adopt new and sustainable methods that keep production alive in both highlands and lowlands.
Representing Thaba-Tseka’s nutrition clubs, Masello Sehlabaka praised the partnership between farmers and nutrition activists, saying their collaboration is vital in tackling malnutrition, which continues to affect many children in the district.
“We are proud of Ntseo Seedlings. Without farmers, our work in nutrition has no meaning. You are feeding lives and giving hope to Thaba-Tseka.” Sehlabaka said.
For Palesa, the day marked a victory that was two decades in the making.
“Ntseo Seedlings started in 1999 with only five trays,” she recalled.
“It was just me, working alone under the open sky. The sun, pests and diseases would destroy my plants. Sometimes I wanted to give up.”
Her fortunes changed in 2020, when she applied for and joined SADP II. By January 2021, Ntseo Seedlings had begun its transformation.
It was the start of real progress."
The programme later supported her with a borehole, ending years of drought-related struggles and ensuring steady irrigation. With access to water and modern infrastructure, Ntseo Seedlings began supplying farms and businesses beyond Thaba-Tseka reaching Maseru, Leribe, Mokhotlong and Qacha’s Nek.
“We now grow a variety of seedlings — tomatoes, peppers, chillies, onions, spinach, lettuce, beetroot and cabbage, however, because of the desired volumes, we cannot even meet all the demand! That shows how much potential there is in this business.”
But Palesa was quick to note that challenges remain eminent.
“Our highland climate delays production, especially during cold spells. Even with a borehole, drought can still affect us. But we have learned to adapt and stay strong,” she said.
During the field day, Ntseo Seedlings turned the celebration into a hands-on learning session.
Palesa and her team demonstrated how they fill seed trays, use drip irrigation systems and classify seedlings by size and strength. Attendees were encouraged to ask questions and observe every stage of the process.
“We are producing both seedlings and knowledge. We train other farmers who want to start their own nurseries, because together, we can grow the agricultural future of Lesotho.”
The day ended with heartfelt remarks from District Agricultural Officer Makhala Phalatsa, who praised Palesa’s perseverance and the example she has set for other farmers, especially the youth.
“This week, I’ve attended two celebrations like this, both showing the determination of Thaba-Tseka farmers,” Phalatsa said.
“Palesa, your journey shows that hard work pays off. You have inspired many and I urge more young people to follow your lead.”
As the music faded and guests admired the rows of green seedlings swaying under their new shade nets, Palesa reflected on her journey with pride and gratitude.
“From 1999 to 2020, we fought hard to survive and today we have grown from five trays to 1,200 trays. That’s not just success, its transformation that was birthed by the SADP II which changed our story forever.”
Her message to fellow farmers was simple but powerful:
“Farming takes time, but it rewards patience. Every seed you plant carries hope — and hope, when nurtured, always grows.”
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