Farmers host day of growth and trade
BOKANG MOSHOESHOE
MASERU – The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Smallholder Agriculture Development Project (SADP II), hosted its first-ever National Market Day for farmers at the Pitso Ground in Maseru this Wednesday. The event, which aimed to explore latest innovations and opportunities shaping modern agribusinesses as the global agricultural landscape continues to evolve, saw stakeholders from across the agribusiness sector and entrepreneurs gathered to learn.
The market day served as a dynamic platform to improve market access for smallholder’s farmers countrywide, it also connects farmers with potential buyers, traders, financial institutions and other agricultural stakeholders to create business opportunities with as well as strengthen the agricultural value chain.
To enhance agricultural commercialization and reduce reliance on imported agriculture products, many producers exhibited their produce and established business links.
It also plays a significant role in fostering agribusiness development and promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhance food security in Lesotho following its key objectives which include; promoting agribusiness and commercial farming and also helping farmers sell their products more efficiently.
The Minister of Agriculture, Thabo Mofosi, who graced the event, said that the theme for the event and day was ‘‘be part of the change.’’
He expressed gratitude to entities which engaged in making the event a success the likes of World Food Programme, Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, Lerotholi Polytechnic etc.
Mofosi further explained that this event is to help motivate producers, put them on the spotlight and connect with their potential consumers.
‘‘My greatest wish is for us as Basotho to work together, help farmers produce and market their products adhering to all safety measures to ensure nutrition nationwide. This is also the prime minister’s wish for Lesotho to maintain good nutrition and portray this as an example to other countries,’’ he said.
Farmers who attended the agri-business said it was “such a great opportunity to be exposed to our target market and this will lead to our businesses blooming.”
They also urged the ministry to host such events within the villages so as to bring forth awareness on the importance of agriculture and boost the economy.
‘‘This event made me meet my ongoing suppliers as I got to collaborate with people who produce the kinds of products I need. It has been a hassle to find the right suppliers. Through this I have met my all-time suppliers,’’ ‘Maliteboho Mositi of Luti Foods explained.
‘Mamoiphepi Letsie, a beekeeper from Semana Beekeeping Farm, stated that their main objective is growth, and have more people engage in beekeeping farming as bees bring life in so many different ways.
Letsie’s greatest wish is for Lesotho to one day an economically fledging apiary that can cater and fully meet the supplier needs of the general honey needs of the country.
‘‘Bees are very crucial to our daily life, I urge people not to treat them as threats it would be best if people are tutored on how to live with bees and treat them well so as to ensure their survival and safety,’’ she pleaded.
This event not only provided a platform for economic growth but also fostered community engagement and knowledge sharing as vital in driving agricultural success, fostering economic growth and ensuring food security for future generations.
