By: Lebohang Maluke

MASERU

Mr. Mokunehi Thinyane, a prominent figure in Lesotho’s agricultural sector, has taken a significant step towards empowering the youth of Semonkong. He has provided five young individuals with potato seeds to help them kick-start their farming ventures and create job opportunities.

Mr. Thinyane, who is affiliated with a leading agricultural organization in Lesotho as a Chairman, believes that investing in the youth is crucial for the sustainable development of the country’s agricultural sector. He observes that many young people like Semonkong are often drawn to urban centers in search of employment opportunities, leading to a decline in agricultural activities and a subsequent shortage of food production.

Agriculture is the backbone of the economy, and it is essential to ensure its continued growth and sustainability.By empowering the youth with the necessary resources and knowledge, can not only ensure food security for future generations but also create a thriving agricultural sector that provides employment opportunities for young people.

By providing the youth with high-quality potato seeds, Mr. Thinyane aims to encourage them to engage in agricultural activities and experience the rewards of their labour firsthand.

They provide a valuable source of nutrition and can also be a lucrative source of income for farmers.

This will equip the youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare their land for planting, ensuring optimal soil conditions for potato growth.

The youth will learn to identify and manage common pests and diseases that can affect potato crops, minimising crop losses. Harvesting and post-harvest handling: The training will cover the proper techniques for harvesting potatoes, as well as post-harvest handling practices, such as sorting, grading, and storage, to ensure optimal quality and shelf life.

The youth will also receive training on marketing their produce, including identifying potential markets, negotiating prices, and developing effective marketing strategies.

This comprehensive training program will not only equip the youth with the necessary skills to successfully cultivate potatoes but also instill in them a sense of entrepreneurship and a desire to grow their own agricultural businesses.

Thinyane envisions a future where the youth of Semonkong are actively engaged in agricultural activities, contributing to the economic growth of their community and ensuring food security for future generations. He hopes that this initiative will serve as a catalyst for a broader movement to empower young people in Lesotho to embrace agriculture as a viable and rewarding career path.

He emphasises the importance of creating a supportive environment for young farmers, including access to credit, markets, and technology.

The impact of this initiative extends beyond the individual youth participants. By increasing food production in Semonkong, this program can help to address food insecurity within the community and reduce reliance on food imports. Moreover, it can create employment opportunities for young people, reducing youth unemployment rates and promoting economic growth in the region.

Mr. Mokunehi Thinyane’s initiative serves as a beacon of hope for the youth of Semonkong and a testament to the power of community-based initiatives to drive positive change. By investing in the youth and empowering them with the necessary skills and resources, can ensure a sustainable future for Lesotho’s agricultural sector and create a more prosperous and food-secure nation.