By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – To foster agricultural development and tackling food insecurity, the First National Bank (FNB) Lesotho, handed over agricultural products to Lesotho National Farmers’ Union (LENAFU) 20 farmers at the Maputsoe Resource Centre.
The donation aligns with FNB’s 20th anniversary celebrations and commemorates His Majesty King Letsie III’s 61st birthday. It draws inspiration from His Majesty’s role as the African Union Nutrition Champion, aimed at addressing hunger and promoting nutrition across the continent.
The farmers received 40 kg of PANA maize seeds, 100 kg of fertilizers, valued at M100,000.00 and vegetables seeds from LENAFU. These resources are intended to support sustainable agricultural practices, enhance food production, and empower farmers to grow high-quality produce, contributing to community development and food security.
The selected recipients consisted of 5 women, 5 youth and 10 individuals from vulnerable groups of Maputsoe and Hlotse.
The initiative comes at a critical time for Lesotho, a nation with a population of approximately two million people, where hunger and malnutrition are persistent challenges.
FNB CEO, Delekazi Mokebe emphasized the Bank’s dedication to supporting local farmers, noting “as the breadbasket of our nation, agriculture is fundamental to our countries sustainability, we have a patriotic responsibility to contribute to keeping that basket full.”
Phamotse Maboee, DEO Agric in his speech noted that according to reports, 58% of the population suffers from hunger, and half of those affected often go to bed without food.
He then acknowledged FNB for the donations, adding that Basotho now understand that they can economically grow through farming.
Adding that the alarming hunger statistics underline the urgent need for innovative agricultural programs and partnerships aimed at improving food availability.
Lerato Mohale, Marketing and Communications Manager FNB emphasized the importance of agricultural support in addressing these challenges. “last year, FNB donated 10kg seeds and 50kg fertilizers to farmers in Maseru and Berea, this year we are donating 20kg seeds and 100kg fertilizers to each of the selected farmers in Maputsoe and Hlotse,” said Mohale.
“We are honored to give back to the community in such a meaningful way,”
“By supporting farmers, we hope to play our part in reducing hunger and building sustainable livelihoods. Agriculture is at the heart of economic growth, and we are committed to empowering our farmers to make Lesotho a food-secure nation,” she said.
The donation empowers small-scale farmers with the tools they need to improve crop yields, diversify production, and contribute to the local economy.
FNB donation reflects a commitment to building sustainable communities through agriculture. Farming remains an essential sector for Lesotho’s economy, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population.
Farmers often face barriers such as limited access to inputs, financial resources, and markets. Initiatives like this not only provide immediate relief but also offer long-term solutions by equipping farmers to become self-reliant.
The donation also aligns with His Majesty King Letsie III’s advocacy for improved nutrition in Africa. His dedication to the cause serves as an inspiration, reminding stakeholders of the critical role nutrition plays in development. Increasing agricultural productivity will not only address food insecurity but also promote balanced diets, ensuring that communities have access to nutritious food.
The support provided by FNB aims to build resilience among farmers in Maputsoe and Hlotse by reducing their dependency on external aid and empowering them to contribute to the local food supply. Through improved crop production and sustainable practices, the farmers can better withstand economic pressures and climate-related challenges.
As the farmers begin their planting season with new resources, the hope is that their success will inspire other farmers across the country and create ripple effects in the broader agricultural sector.
The event concluded with a call for further collaborations to address hunger and poverty in Lesotho. FNB reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that uplift communities and build sustainable economies, ensuring that future generations enjoy a better quality of life.
“We are honored to give back to the community in such a meaningful way,” said an FNB representative. “By supporting farmers, we hope to play our part in reducing hunger and building sustainable livelihoods. Agriculture is at the heart of economic growth, and we are committed to empowering our farmers to make Lesotho a food-secure nation.”
On behalf of farmers, Malichaba Jankuru acknowledged FNB for their donations, “We are deeply grateful to FNB for their generosity. These seeds and fertilizers will greatly enhance our ability to produce quality crops and sustain our livelihoods.”
However, she raised concerns on Basotho building houses on fields, and urged them to stop building houses on fields, as they are taking away the only places they can use to grow food and feed their families while improving food security.
Mahlale Chaka said this donation will empower them to improve their farming practices and increase productivity, ensuring food security for their families and communities.
Bokang Majara acknowledged FNB for considering them stating, “With this support from FNB, we are hopeful for a better harvest season, which will enable us to grow not only crops but also our local economy.”
“We commit to using these resources efficiently to maximize the impact of this generous gesture and uplift our community,” said Majara.
“This partnership with FNB reminds us that we are not alone in our journey. Together, we can create a brighter future for agriculture in our region.”