Sustainable financing remains one of the top priorities for the successful implementation and long term security of the Biodiversity Finance Initiative in Lesotho. This was highlighted by the Acting Director of the Department of Environment in the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ms Qongqong Hoohlo, during the official launch of BIOFIN held in Maseru on Monday.
Speaking at the event, Ms Hoohlo stressed that Lesotho’s rich biodiversity is under growing pressure from climate change, land degradation, and the unsustainable use of natural resources. She noted that these challenges threaten ecosystems that support livelihoods, food security, and economic stability. She emphasized that innovative and sustainable financing mechanisms are urgently needed to protect and manage the country’s natural environment.
Ms Hoohlo explained that the Biodiversity Finance Initiative creates a platform for collaboration between government, the private sector, and development partners. Through this cooperation, Lesotho aims to mobilise financial resources that will support biodiversity conservation while advancing national development priorities. She pointed out that biodiversity protection and economic growth should move together, not compete.
She further stated that BIOFIN aligns with Lesotho’s commitments under international environmental agreements, including the Convention on Biological Diversity. The initiative will help the country address its biodiversity financing gap through improved planning, targeted policy reforms, and strategic investments. According to Ms Hoohlo, this approach will strengthen accountability and ensure resources are used effectively.
Ms Hoohlo also underlined that the success of BIOFIN will depend on strong stakeholder collaboration, effective governance, and continuous capacity building. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to integrating biodiversity conservation into national and sectoral development plans, ensuring that environmental sustainability remains a core policy priority.
The launch brought together representatives from government ministries, development partners, civil society organisations, and the private sector. Participants shared a common view that sustainable financing is essential to safeguarding Lesotho’s natural heritage. The event marked an important step toward securing long term support for biodiversity conservation for the benefit of present and future generations.
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