The Ministry of Environment and Forestry commemorated Desertification and Drought Day in Sebitia bringing together government departments, development partners and local communities to raise awareness about environmental conservation and the importance of supporting pastoralists.
Speaking during the event, Ministry of Environment and Forestry representative, Mr. Tankiso Letsopha said the commemoration aimed to celebrate both Desertification and Drought Day and the role played by pastoralists in caring for livestock and the environment.
He said protecting rangelands and the environment helps maintain fertile land, while supporting herd boys and pastoralists enables them to better care for livestock and natural resources.
The event began with an inspection of land restoration and soil conservation projects, where local residents demonstrated the positive results of environmental protection initiatives. Community members explained that areas previously affected by uncontrolled burning have improved after receiving environmental education. They noted that the restored land now provides cleaner flowing water and vegetation that can be harvested and sold for income.
Several organisations, including ReNOKA, LHDA and ROLL, exhibited their products and services during the event. The Minister visited the various stalls and engaged with exhibitors about their contributions to environmental conservation and sustainable land management.
Berea District Commissioner Senior Superintendent Kabelo Halahala highlighted the importance of caring for pastoralists, noting that they play a crucial role in livestock management.
“Taking care of pastoralists means they are able to perform their duties effectively. This contributes to proper livestock management, prevents harmful practices such as overgrazing and promotes the wellbeing of animals,” he said.
He further warned livestock owners against exploiting workers, stating that such practices constitute a crime.
Mrs. Palesa Leoaneka from the Department of Soil and Water Conservation said Lesotho is among 197 countries worldwide that annually commemorate Desertification and Drought Day and participate in efforts to combat desertification and soil erosion.
She explained that factors such as overgrazing contribute to land degradation and that climate change has worsened the situation by reducing the soil’s ability to retain water, resulting in increased desertification.
In his closing remarks, Minister of Environment and Forestry, Mr. Thabo Mofosi, expressed satisfaction with the successful commemoration. Referring to this year’s theme, “Rangelands, Recognize, Respect and Restore,” he said Basotho should apply these principles in caring for both the land and pastoralists.
The Minister emphasized the importance of environmental education and pledged continued support from the ministry to help communities protect and restore the country’s natural resources.
Source: Lesotho News Agency [LENA]
