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The UN’s International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has committed to supporting Lesotho in Southern Africa’s agriculture sector.
The organisation along with local government announced an investment of $25 million (£19.6 million) towards land regeneration.
Donal Brown, IFAD’s Associate Vice-President for Programme Management Department recently met with the country’s leaders to discuss strategies for boosting agricultural productivity, improving livelihoods and reducing poverty.
The country suffers from land degradation, soil erosion and water scarcity and these issues are being compounded by climate change.
These challenges also disproportionately impact rural communities, with 66% of households relying on natural resources that are progressively deteriorating.
Mr Brown said: ‘By working closely with the government and the private sector, we can create a more resilient and sustainable food system that benefits all Lesotho. We remain committed to supporting Lesotho through innovative approaches, knowledge sharing and capacity building.
‘By investing in small-scale farmers and rural communities, IFAD aims to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for the country.’
Since 1980, IFAD and partners have invested $311 million (£244 million) in 12 rural development projects in the Kingdom of Lesotho, benefiting 339,720 rural households.
These initiatives have increased agricultural production, improved access to markets and enhanced resilience to climate change.