…as SADP II gears to Open Grant Applications for Smallholder Farmers in November
Ntsoaki Motaung
The Smallholder Agriculture Development Project II (SADP II) will soon open its next call for grant applications, giving smallholder farmers across Lesotho a valuable opportunity to access financial support.
According to Project Field Officer Relebohile Khathibe, the official announcement for applications is expected before the end of November, encouraging farmers to begin their preparations to ensure timely submissions.
Khathibe shared this news during a recent field visit by representatives from the World Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), who fund SADP II.
During the visit, IFAD and World Bank delegates evaluated project progress, examined successes and challenges, and offered recommendations for future improvements.
Empowering Farmers with Skills and Resources
SADP II provides comprehensive support to smallholder farmers, including training, access to new farming techniques, grants, and resources to improve product quality and resilience amid climate challenges. The project’s outreach includes a range of beneficiaries—lead farmers, nutrition clubs, livestock farmers, and irrigation schemes—all contributing to a stronger agricultural sector.
Among SADP II lead farmers is 66-year-old Mohau Lakeng, a seasoned crop farmer who mentors others in his community.
Known as a champion among his followers, Lakeng expressed gratitude for SADP II’s support, which he said has enabled him to share his extensive farming knowledge and market access strategies with aspiring farmers.
While some believe Lesotho’s agricultural market is limited, Lakeng sees untapped potential and highlights the importance of improving access and production techniques to meet market demands.
“While there’s a perception that there’s no market for agricultural produce in Lesotho, I see ample opportunity. SADP II has equipped me to pass on these skills and show others how to reach this market,” Lakeng explained.
Mentorship Drives Success
One of Lakeng’s mentees, Molefi Mabaleha, has transitioned into a successful potato farmer in Matsieng thanks to this mentorship.
“Before meeting Lakeng, I didn’t see farming as a viable income source, but he has helped me understand innovative cropping methods and shown me how to access farming inputs that enhance production.”
Similarly, Bataung Morakabi, a member of the Chebelopele Maqhaaka Commodity Group, applauds SADP II for supporting their cooperative approach, which has enabled year-round production and consistent market access.
“Working alone, I couldn’t meet demand year-round, but now, as part of a group, we supply our market on a rotational basis,” he noted.
Commitment to Climate-Smart Agriculture
SADP II’s mission extends beyond grants, focusing on the adoption of climate-smart agricultural technologies, enhancing commercial opportunities, and improving dietary diversity for beneficiaries. The project stands as a pillar of support in Lesotho’s agricultural landscape, fostering sustainability and growth for smallholder farmers.
With the upcoming call for applications, SADP II continues its dedication to building a resilient and market-ready agricultural sector in Lesotho.
