The government will temporarily close the borders for the importation of tomatoes and apples into the country.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, Mr. Thabo Mofosi at the press conference held in Maseru on Monday.

Mr. Mofosi said borders will be closed from Tuesday, 13 to 30 March, saying the decision was reached based on high production of these products and the intention is to ensure that they do not get destroyed.

He said the production of tomatoes is estimated to be 497 004 boxes, saying three orchards of apples have been identified at Likhetlane, Maoamafubelu and Likhothola which have a capacity of 135 750 boxes of apples.

He however emphasised that apples will not only be bought at these orchards hence farmers who have them should ensure that they reach the market.

“We want to allow farmers to sell in local markets without competition from other countries,” he stressed, saying apples produced in the country are of good quality because of Lesotho’s weather.

Mr. Mofosi noted that permits for buying these products in other countries will not be issued, instead, buyers will be told where to buy these products in the country, saying the Ministry will also monitor prices to ensure farmers do not increase them now that borders are closed.

He added that the Department of Research in his ministry has run tests for tomatoes, saying Extension Officers based in the districts will handle these issues and that if these products could get finished before two months, they will open borders.

In conclusion, the Minister commended farmers for the produce and participation in the National Market Day held in Maseru last month.

Reports show that farmers, who participated in the National Market Day by selling their products collected over M100, 000.

Source: LENA 12/02/2024