News
The Tragedy of Ts’olo Kou’s 37 Sheep
Effects of Climate Change Devastates Lesotho’s Farmers Staff Reporters A devastating hailstorm struck the mountainous region of Thaba Putsoa, leaving behind a trail of destruction that claimed the lives of 37 sheep from Ts’olo Kou’s flock. The incident is a sobering reminder of the harsh realities faced by farmers in Lesotho as they battle the…
Farmers Pitso Awards, A Testament to Lesotho’s Growing Agricultural Landscape
By Libuseng Molato On September 7, 2024, the Manthabiseng Convention Centre in Maseru was abuzz with celebration as Farmers Pitso hosted their prestigious annual awards ceremony, honouring the outstanding contributions of farmers and stakeholders across the agricultural value chain. This event, marking another milestone in the evolution of Lesotho’s agriculture sector, highlighted the commitment and…
August: Lesotho’s Month of Agricultural Revival and Food Security
By Libuseng Molato The government of Lesotho has designated August as the Month for Food and Agriculture, a nationwide initiative aimed at reinforcing the importance of farming among Basotho. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Nutrition has declared “PSHATLA MAFISOANA A TLALA RE KENE KHORENG” as the motto for this month. The initiative was launched on…
SADP II Drives Agricultural Transformation Through Business Support
By Kabelo Masoabi The Smallholder Agriculture Development Project II (SADP II) continues to revolutionise Lesotho’s agricultural sector by equipping small-scale farmers with the tools and skills they need to thrive. With the support of over 100 business service providers, SADP II is helping farmers create viable business proposals and adopt innovative practices to boost productivity…
Sheep and Goat Auction to Boost Local Production
By Ntsoaki Motaung The Lesotho National Wool and Mohair Growers Association (LNWMGA) hosted a successful sheep and goat auction in Maseru on Wednesday, with a primary goal of enhancing the country’s wool and mohair production. The event, which showcased over 100 sheep and 100 goats, aimed to encourage local sourcing of improved livestock and foster…
Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba 2025: A Golden Opportunity for Basotho Farmers
By Staff Reporter The much-anticipated Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba 2025 is set to take place on Tuesday, 1 April, and Wednesday, 2 April 2025, at Lavender Kontrei Market in Pretoria North, South Africa. This premier event is a game-changer for young farmers, agripreneurs, and agricultural leaders looking to scale their businesses, access new opportunities, and…
Farm Girls Build Local Agricultural Value Chain
Across the nation, local female farmers are joining forces to establish a thriving agricultural value chain that expands their market access and strengthens their collective presence in Lesotho’s agricultural sector. This ground-breaking initiative is spearheaded by the organisation Farm Girls, which aims to empower women farmers through collaboration, skill-sharing, and strategic partnerships. By uniting their…
A Unified Vision for Agricultural Progress: Lesotho’s Research Policy Under Review
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…
Advancing Apiculture: RSDA’s New Centre Aims to Export Organic Honey
By Lerato Matheka Lesotho’s beekeeping industry is experiencing a transformative phase, with the Rural Self-Help Development Association (RSDA) spearheading initiatives to harness its economic potential. The recent inauguration of the Beekeeping Centre of Excellence in Shalane, Phamong, marks a significant milestone in this journey. Background of Lesotho’s Beekeeping Industry Traditionally, beekeeping in Lesotho has been…