SADP’s Success with Roller Mill

Libuseng Molato

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Nutrition and the Smallholder Agriculture Development Project II (SADP II) recently celebrated the achievements of Eli and Sons Inputs’ roller mill, owned by Hlapane Sehloho. Sehloho, a beneficiary of SADP II, received a grant that significantly boosted his business. The celebration took place on July 19th in Rothe, Maseru district.

Hlapane Sehloho, a beneficiary of SADP, shared his journey: “Being a Mosotho man, I grew up in a farming family and community and developed a passion for farming. It has always been my dream to own a roller mill because, as a child, I had to travel a long distance to access one.”

Sehloho has been cultivating maize and sorghum on a large scale and always aspired to sell flour. However, he couldn’t afford a roller mill until SADP came to his aid. Now, he sells wheat, maize, and sorghum flour produced from his fields.

“I heard about SADP assisting Basotho farmers with grants. I never thought that at my age, I could receive assistance to fulfil my dream. I submitted my proposal twice, and it was rejected both times. I met all the requirements on the third attempt, and my proposal was successful,” he explained.

Sehloho mentioned that initially, he only had a small building for the roller mill. SADP helped him construct a storeroom and purchase the roller mill.

“I studied at Lesotho Agricultural College in 1974, and I have always applied the knowledge I gained there. I have pursued farming to the extent that I can now provide for the community. I want to expand my business and produce samp,” he expressed.

During the celebration, Sehloho announced that he is giving back to the community by offering free services to thank them for their year-long support. In an interview, Sehloho shared that he farms three separate plots—one spanning seven acres, another four acres, and the third two acres. He also participates in block farming to ensure a year-round supply. Besides using his harvests, Sehloho supports the community by purchasing their grains.

Mabafokeng Mangope, SADP’s project coordinator, thanked Sehloho for his patience and perseverance. “Despite having his proposal rejected twice, Sehloho kept applying until he met the requirements and received the grant. This gives us hope at SADP that he will continue to thrive,” she said.

“SADP granted Sehloho M400,000, while he invested M100,000 of his own money. The purpose is to uplift those who are already making a difference so that they can take better care of their contributions,” Mangope added.

She encouraged Basotho to apply for grants, emphasizing that SADP has funds available to assist farmers in achieving socio-economic security, food security, and reducing unemployment, just like Sehloho, who now employs two permanent workers.

Thabo Sekhonyana, Director of Field Services, highlighted that projects like SADP fill gaps where the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Nutrition have limitations. “Especially in the face of climate change and food insecurity, SADP helps by scaling up and commercializing the agricultural value chain in the country, thereby boosting the economy.”

“By fulfilling the government’s mission to promote increased agricultural production, food and nutrition security, and improved socio-economic development, SADP helps communities become self-sufficient. This contributes to reducing hunger-related violence. I encourage Basotho to prepare for spring farming and engage wholeheartedly,” Sekhonyana said.

Letsatsi Adoro, Lilala Community Chairperson, praised Sehloho as an example in the community, showing that agriculture can transform lives. “Now, two people from the community have jobs thanks to Sehloho’s success. I urge the community to follow his example and create sustainable opportunities through agriculture,” Adoro said.