By: Puseletso Maqoaelane
Maseru – The Small Agriculture Development Project II (SADP II) will soon invite smallholder farmers from across Lesotho to apply for the next round of grants, offering essential financial support to boost productivity and market reach.
Project Officer Relebohile Khathibe shared that the announcement is expected before the end of November, encouraging farmers to prepare early for smooth and timely applications.
This update comes during a visit by representatives from the World Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD); SADP II’s primary funders. The delegation assessed the project’s progress, reviewed its successes, and identified areas for improvement, providing valuable feedback to further enhance SADP II’s effectiveness.
The project has been key in equipping smallholder farmers with skills, new farming techniques, and grants that improve the quality and climate resilience of their products. SADP II serves a broad network of beneficiaries, including lead farmers, nutrition clubs, livestock owners, and irrigation schemes, all of who strengthen Lesotho’s agricultural sector.
Among SADP II’s lead farmers is Mohau Lakeng, a seasoned crop farmer who mentors other farmers within his community. He expressed gratitude for the project’s support, which has enabled him to share his expertise in market access and production techniques.
“There’s a perception that agriculture lacks a viable market in Lesotho, but I see great opportunity. SADP II has empowered me to pass on valuable skills and show others how to tap into this market,” said Lakeng.
One of his mentees, Molefi Mabaleha, has successfully transitioned into a potato farmer in Matsieng, and he credits Lakeng’s mentorship for his success. “Before meeting Lakeng, I never thought farming could be profitable, but he has taught me innovative cropping methods and shown me how to access farming inputs that increase production,” Mabaleha stated.
Similarly, Bataung Morakabi, a member of the Chebelopele Maqhaaka Commodity group, praised SADP II’s support for their cooperative farming approach. He explained that working as a group has allowed them to meet demand consistently throughout the year. “On my own, I couldn’t sustain year-round supply, but now, as part of a group, we supply our market regularly,” noted Morakabi.
With this new grant cycle, SADP 11 continues to empower Lesotho’s smallholder farmers by providing the resources, training, and market guidance they need to succeed, strengthening both individual farmers and the agricultural sector at large.