Seabata Mahao
In the heart of Lesotho’s agricultural landscape lies PK Welding and Engineering Solution, a pioneering force driving innovation and technological advancement in farming practices.
Situated in Ha-Motšoeneng, Maseru, this company has emerged as a beacon of progress, revolutionising agricultural machinery and tools to suit the unique needs of Basotho farmers.
The company’s journey from metalwork artisans to agricultural machinery specialists speaks volumes about its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the agricultural sector.
Mokhele Rakoetje, a key figure in the company, reflects on their transformative path; “From repairing plant machinery to crafting tailor-made designs, we have embraced the challenge of enhancing agricultural efficiency.”
PK Welding and Engineering Solution’s approach is deeply rooted in innovation and adaptability.
They pride themselves on developing customised solutions that address the specific challenges faced by farmers in Lesotho’s rugged terrain.
“It took a repeated visit by farmers requesting repair services from us that we saw a gap in the industry. We took on the challenge, learned new innovative agriculture machinery and manufactured,” Mokhele Rakoetje said.
This commitment to innovation has enabled them to establish themselves as leaders in the field, offering a wide range of agricultural machinery and tools designed to optimise productivity and sustainability.
One of the company’s core strengths lies in its ability to draw inspiration from a variety of sources.
Rakoetje explains, “We first draw a design of the machinery to be manufactured. Sometimes we even see the machinery on the internet. We take the design and then modify it according to our local needs and usage.” This adaptive approach ensures that their products are perfectly suited to Lesotho’s agricultural landscape, providing farmers with reliable and efficient tools to enhance their operations.
PK Welding and Engineering Solution’s portfolio includes a diverse range of agricultural machinery, from ploughs and seedling planters to potato harvesters and weeding machines. Their focus on innovation extends beyond product development to include ongoing consultation and support for farmers.
“We receive multiple requests from farmers to assist them in the manufacturing of different plants and machines. Our first challenge was tractor plant repairs where we changed plastic containers to sheet metal containers for more continent usage,” he recounted.
“After our repairs and maintenance work brought forth by farmers, we then decided to modify a lot of the machines for our local farmers. We have manufactured ploughs hauled by tractors and those hauled by animals and people,” he said.
“We have made a single-row potato harvesting machine hauled by animals or people and a double-row potato harvesting machine hauled by a tractor.
“We also manufactured a weeding machine which can be hauled by animal or people.”
He added, “Farmers are allowed to bring their designs, and we will modify and manufacture them to suit Lesotho’s landscape.”
He emphasised their commitment to meeting the needs of their customers.
Beyond their contributions to the agricultural sector, PK Welding and Engineering Solution has also played a vital role in supporting local communities. During the global COVID-19 pandemic, they manufactured sanitary water stations and water tanks distributed to schools and hospitals across the country, highlighting their dedication to social responsibility and community development.
As PK Welding and Engineering Solution continues to push the boundaries of agricultural innovation, they emphasise their commitment to, “…remain steadfast in their mission to empower Basotho farmers with the tools and technologies they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. Through their unwavering commitment to excellence and sustainability, they are shaping the future of agriculture in Lesotho and beyond.
