On 26 March 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition marked a significant milestone in advancing agribusiness capacity as Minister Hon. Thabo Mofosi presented certificates to ten farmers who successfully completed specialized training in Maseru. The program, conducted by World Vision Lesotho with support from SADP2, focused on gender equality and the empowerment of women and youth within the agricultural sector. The ceremony highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive development and ensuring that all farmers, regardless of gender or age, can participate meaningfully in agribusiness opportunities. By equipping participants with practical knowledge and skills, the initiative seeks to enhance productivity, income generation, and sustainable agricultural practices. The event also underscored the importance of collaboration between government institutions and development organizations to strengthen Lesotho’s food security and economic resilience.
The training program addressed key challenges faced by women and young farmers in agribusiness. Participants were introduced to strategies for improving farm management, accessing markets, and leveraging agricultural innovations to increase efficiency and profitability. Special emphasis was placed on creating equitable opportunities and reducing barriers that have traditionally limited participation of women and youth in the sector. Farmers learned techniques to integrate gender-sensitive practices in daily operations, fostering inclusivity and teamwork. The approach is designed to ensure that agribusiness initiatives benefit entire communities and contribute to broader socio-economic development objectives.
During the ceremony, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Khothatso Ts’ooana, officially opened the proceedings and called on ministry officials to provide full support to the World Vision program. His address emphasized the importance of government backing in ensuring the success and sustainability of development initiatives. By fostering strong partnerships between public institutions and NGOs, the ministry can help farmers access technical expertise, financial resources, and training programs that strengthen their operations. Dr Ts’ooana’s remarks highlighted that empowering women and youth in agribusiness is not only a matter of equity but also a critical driver of national growth and food security.
The presentation of certificates serves as a recognition of the farmers’ commitment to learning and improving their agricultural practices. It also sends a broader message about the value of education and training in transforming the agricultural sector. Graduates of the program are expected to apply their knowledge to improve productivity, implement innovative techniques, and advocate for inclusive practices in their communities. World Vision Lesotho and SADP2 continue to provide technical support and mentorship to ensure that the impact of the training extends beyond the classroom. This ongoing engagement strengthens capacity at the grassroots level and encourages replication of best practices across other regions.
The certification ceremony reflects Lesotho’s broader commitment to promoting inclusive agribusiness development. By investing in the skills of women and youth, the country is building a more resilient and equitable agricultural sector. The collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture, World Vision Lesotho, and SADP2 demonstrates the effectiveness of combining policy guidance with practical training and community support. As these trained farmers implement their new skills, they are expected to drive productivity, strengthen food security, and create income-generating opportunities. The initiative represents a practical step toward empowering the next generation of agripreneurs and ensuring sustainable development in Lesotho’s agricultural landscape.
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