The Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane has launched winter cropping at the event held at Kolonyama in Leribe on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Matekane said the government aims to help farmers produce in large quantities, saying the government will therefore help farmers to adapt to a new era of climate change and use the latest technology to enhance production.

He remarked that If Basotho can produce for themselves this will enhance the country’s economy.

Therefore, he appealed to all farmers to fully engage in agriculture, saying the government will support them with technical support.

He urged Basotho to participate in block farming, adding that this type of farming is more effective.

“In partnership with the farmers, the government will plough 1564 hectares at Ha Manama,” he said, noting that they are not expecting not less than 4694 tons of wheat during harvest.

Also speaking, the Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, Mr. Thabo Mofosi said due to climate change, agriculture needs an advanced approach, saying the government will assist farmers to fulfil the Prime Minister’s mandate of a Lesotho-driven economy.

He said his ministry will work tirelessly to ensure that Lesotho produces in large numbers so she can feed herself and export to other countries.

He said the tractors to be used for ploughing the fields are well advanced, especially in keeping moisture.

On the same token, the Principal Chief of Tsikoane, Peka le Kolburg, Chieftainess Pontšo Mathealira said Leribe is blessed with good soil hence this assistance is going to enhance production in the country.

She commented that Leribe has a large scale of farming and can feed the whole country if its farmers are assisted.

About 55 tractors performing different roles will be used to help farmers during this winter cropping.

By Staff Reporter: Maphoka Likotsi