By: Mpho Shelile
MASERU
To transform the lives of youth and persons with disabilities in both rural and urban areas of Lesotho, Batloung Foods, through its nutrition club and with the support of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, has launched a project to help them create jobs and provide opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and economic empowerment through agriculture and crafts.
These skills are designed to help participants generate income, especially during harsh winter seasons, by selling wool-based products like blankets, scarves, and mittens.
In an interview with Informative newspaper, ‘Maselloane Phumane, founder of Batloung Foods, shared that through their nutrition wing they decided it was about time to include persons living with disabilities, because they also deserve to put food on their table and provide for their families.
She further highlighted that since the inception of the nutrition clubs, she is proud to announce that they have successfully trained approximately 30 participants, about 15 older individuals and 15 youth. The training programs have imparted valuable skills and knowledge, which have empowered the participants to improve their livelihoods and support their families.
However, like many other clubs, they have faced several challenges along the way. One significant challenge has been the lack of essential materials needed for training and production.
Adding that despite these challenges, the determination and resilience of the participants have shone through, and they never stopped working
Maselloane stated that the main goal of this initiative is to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for disadvantaged groups by providing them with free training and resources. This includes various agricultural techniques, food security programs, and workshops focused on practical skills like knitting and crocheting.
“By engaging youth and persons living with disabilities, we aim to give them the tools they need to build sustainable livelihoods and foster resilience within their communities,” said Maselloane.
She further stated that the selection of participants is based on their willingness to engage and improve their circumstances. “Many participants come from impoverished backgrounds, and the project offers them a chance to gain valuable skills that will not only benefit them but also their families and communities.”
“The training is open to participants who show interest and determination to learn. The project’s inclusivity is its strength, and it encourages everyone to participate, irrespective of their abilities.”
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security plays a key role by facilitating free training workshops, allowing participants to learn new skills in agriculture and crafts, such as wool crafting, and by offering skilled mentors.
One of the project’s most inspiring participants is Mojalefa Mosala. Despite being visually impaired, Mojalefa has learned to crochet and has become a role model for others. He shares his experiences, emphasizing the importance of community, skill-sharing, and resilience. Mojalefa’s determination to succeed despite his disability showcases the power of the project in empowering people to break barriers and make meaningful contributions to society.
“I am proud to be part of this project. It has given me the opportunity to learn new skills and meet others who are also determined to change their lives,” says Mojalefa. “It has not only helped me personally but also allowed me to support my community by sharing what I have learned.”
Maselloane shares that looking ahead, the project is focused on expanding its reach and ensuring that more youth and disabled individuals can benefit from its resources.
Additionally, they plan on continuing to collaborate with the Ministry of Agriculture and other stakeholders to provide more training sessions and create additional opportunities for income generation.