Libuseng Molato
In a recent visit to Lesotho, Dr. Donald Brown, Associate Vice President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), explored the impact of the Smallholder Agriculture Development Project II (SADP II) on local farms.
This visit, responding to His Majesty’s call, underscored the significant strides made in Lesotho’s agricultural sector thanks to financial aid and dedicated efforts from local farmers.
On August 6, 2024, Dr. Brown, alongside the IFAD team and SADP II officials, visited FM Associates and Toloane Fruit Farm in Ha Toloane Mafeteng.
These farms have been pivotal in showcasing the progress driven by the SADP II initiative.
FM Associates’ Agricultural Journey
FM Associates, originally an engineering consulting firm, ventured into agriculture in 2018. Initially struggling with beekeeping, they shifted to horticulture in late 2020, purchasing land from Toloane Fruit Market. Despite early setbacks, including heavy rainfall and fungal attacks, FM Associates has shown remarkable resilience.
Human Resource Officer, Pusetso Mabeli, shared their journey of overcoming challenges noting their initial crops of spinach faced issues, but through determination and innovative solutions like building a dam and constructing furrows, they continued to progress.
“By July to August, we were supplying major retailers like Pick’nPay and Shoprite. Although faced with further setbacks, our perseverance led to a successful partnership with Toloane Fruit Market,” Mabeli shared
Thanks to a SADP II grant of M400,000 and additional funds, Mabeli revealed that FM Associates invested in irrigation systems and shade nets.
The HR noted that despite a borehole’s limited output, the collaboration with Toloane Fruit Market allowed them to enhance their production capabilities.
“The partnership has enabled us to increase cabbage production significantly, achieving a remarkable M86,000 in sales.”
The grant has also facilitated training in advanced farming techniques, boosting their operational efficiency and expanding their workforce to seven employees. FM Associates’ success has also extended to community support, donating produce to local institutions.
Toloane Fruit Market’s Vision
Founded by Mosiuoa Toloane, Toloane Fruit Market has been a beacon of agricultural development. Toloane’s lifelong commitment to farming has transformed his farm into a local staple for vegetables and fruits. With the support of a M400,000 SADP II grant, Toloane has enhanced his operations with shade nets, a borehole, and irrigation systems.
Toloane’s farm now produces a variety of vegetables and fruits, including onions, peaches, and apples.
“The grant has helped us meet market demands more effectively and improve our produce quality.”
Toloane’s collaborative efforts with FM Associates have further strengthened their farming capabilities, leading to increased productivity and market presence.
Lebamang Mohai’s Poultry Venture
Lebamang Mohai, alongside his wife Mamohai, embarked on poultry farming in Mahlabatheng Ha Liile Maseru after university. With no prior agricultural background, they started with laying hens and quickly expanded their operations with the help of a SADP grant.
The grant facilitated the establishment of a borehole, significantly reducing their water expenses and boosting production.
Despite challenges such as poultry diseases and import restrictions, Lebamang’s farm has grown substantially, providing employment and contributing to local food security.
Future Prospects and Recommendations
The visit from IFAD highlighted the positive impact of financial aid and collaboration on Lesotho’s agricultural sector. The stories from FM Associates, Toloane Fruit Market, and Lebamang Mohai’s farm illustrate the potential for growth and innovation within the industry.
Dr. Donald Brown and the IFAD team were encouraged by the progress made and the commitment of these local farmers. The continued support and training provided by SADP II are vital in overcoming challenges and fostering a thriving agricultural sector in Lesotho.
As the nation looks to the future, the collaboration between local farmers and international aid organisations offers hope and optimism for a prosperous agricultural landscape in Lesotho.
