Libuseng Molato
His Majesty King Letsie III, accompanied by international delegates from the World Food Programme (WFP), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), attended the highly anticipated Agricultural Market Show held on August 5th in Masianokeng.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture, as part of Food Month celebrations, spotlighted the latest innovations in Lesotho’s agricultural sector.
The market show which featured a broad array of agricultural products—from crops and livestock to processed foods—served as a vital platform for local farmers and agribusinesses to exhibit their work. It also provided a unique opportunity for stakeholders to exchange ideas, explore new technologies, and forge partnerships aimed at advancing Lesotho’s agricultural landscape.
Minister of Agriculture, Thabo Mofosi, underscored the importance of the event, which coincides with the start of the agricultural season and the Basotho nation’s new year.
“Agriculture has been the backbone of our nation for centuries and this event not only celebrates our rich agricultural heritage but also marks 200 years since the formation of the Basotho nation in 1824.”
Mofosi highlighted the evolution of agricultural practices, showcasing modern machinery and techniques that promise to transform traditional farming into a technology-driven industry.
“We are here to inspire Basotho to return to farming with a new focus on technology and innovation.”
“This shift is critical for our nation’s food security and economic development,” Mofosi said.
The event also placed a strong emphasis on youth involvement in agriculture, positioning it as a viable career path.
“We must change our mindset and view agriculture as a business,” Mofosi stated adding that inviting farmers to display their products in this open market setting is just the beginning.
“We aim to make agriculture a central part of our economic future,” the minister charged.
Reflecting the event’s significance, the Mofosi announced the theme Khotso Pula Nala, which celebrates Lesotho’s history as a peaceful nation blessed with rain and abundant food.
He also introduced an extended theme, Choatla Mafisoana a Tlala re Kene Khoreng (Breaking the Pots of Hunger from Zero to Infinity), symbolising the country’s commitment to eradicating hunger.
The gathering was not just about celebrations, but also about critically examining the current state of agriculture in Lesotho.
Mofosi called for open discussions to evaluate traditional farming methods in the context of modern challenges like climate change.
“We need to develop strategies to overcome the obstacles facing our agriculture,” he said.
In a move to further engage with the farming community, Mofosi announced the launch of Sehoai Mpotse Ke U Arabe (Farmer, Ask and I Will Answer), a nationwide initiative that would bring government officials directly to farmers to address their concerns.
“This program will ensure that we listen to the voices of our farmers so that we work together to find practical solutions,” he concluded.
The Agricultural Market Show highlighted the critical role of innovation and collaboration in shaping the future of Lesotho’s agriculture, positioning the nation on a path toward greater food security and economic resilience.
