By Lerato Matheka
In a promising development for Lesotho’s agriculture sector, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu has committed a USD $5 million (M88 million) grant to the country. The announcement was made during a meeting between Dongyu and His Majesty King Letsie III at FAO headquarters in Rome, on the side-lines of the 2024 World Food Forum (WFF), where they discussed ongoing and future initiatives aimed at strengthening ties between FAO and Lesotho.
Director-General Dongyu extended his gratitude to King Letsie III for his active role in the WFF and World Food Day 2024. The King’s ongoing service as FAO Special Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition was also acknowledged, and his appointment was renewed for the 2024-2026 term, following his initial appointment in 2022. Dongyu praised King Letsie III’s leadership, noting that his role symbolises FAO’s mission across Africa, as the King’s work advocates for improved nutrition and sustainable agricultural practices.
His Majesty expressed appreciation for the continued partnership with FAO, emphasising the potential for Lesotho’s agricultural and economic growth through initiatives such as the Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum. He highlighted the importance of leveraging resources and FAO’s technical support to reduce hunger and malnutrition across Africa. The King reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for nutritional improvements, calling for action to exploit opportunities to benefit both Africa and the global community.
Director-General Dongyu described the grant as a clear reaffirmation of FAO’s support for Lesotho’s agricultural development and its ambition to transform Lesotho’s agrifood systems in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This support comes at a critical time for Lesotho, which is focused on achieving the “Four Betters”: better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all.
In an interview with Seahlolo, Lesotho’s Agriculture Minister expressed his gratitude for the FAO’s substantial contribution. “This announcement was unexpected and very fulfilling, as it underscores FAO’s recognition of our efforts. The Director-General commended Lesotho’s commitment and acknowledged those representing our country, including myself and our ambassador, in Rome,” the Minister stated. He further shared that the ministry is ready to strategise on implementing agricultural investments that prioritise Basotho’s food security and agricultural resilience.
“We have ambitious plans to diversify, commercialise, and expand various agricultural areas,” the Minister added. “This grant enables us to bring our vision closer to reality.”
Notably, this M88 million grant is distinct from Lesotho’s separate M2.6 billion investment request presented at the Hand-in-Hand Forum during the 2024 World Food Forum.
