HIS MAJESTY APPLAUDS FARMERS

His Majesty King Letsie III has commended small stock farmers for producing quality wool and mohair despite challenges facing them in the sector.
This, he said during a two-day agricultural exhibition held in Maseru from Wednesday which brought together small stock farmers from all districts of the country with the objective to showcase their sheep and goats through competitions as well as to engage in introspection.
His Majesty said their produce does not only assist themselves and their families but also contributes towards the economic development of Lesotho.
“You play a vital role in the economic development of Lesotho,” he said.
He said Lesotho is the second in the world in mohair production and the fourth in wool production, urging farmers to strive to be the first in both productions.
In conclusion, His Majesty reminded farmers to care for pastures for the benefit of their livestock.
Speaking at the same event, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Keketso Sello said he is satisfied with the quality production of wool and mohair, commending farmers for their hard work.
“I would be confused if I was a judge because of the quality produce I am seeing today,” he said.
Mr. Sello also urged farmers to keep up the good work as agriculture is the main source of job creation in the country.
The Chairperson of Lesotho National Wool and Mohair Growers Association (LNWMGA), Mr. Mokoenehi Thinyane said the exhibition will create a platform for farmers to analyse if their produce meets international standards and market, saying it will also help them come up with solutions where international standards are compromised.
Mr. Thinyane appealed to the government through the Ministry of Agriculture to assist them in overcoming challenges facing farmers in wool and mohair production.
Speaking in an interview, one of the farmers from Qacha’s Nek, Mr. Neo Morai said they are faced with the challenge of stock-theft, accessing medicine and food for their livestock on time and climate change.
He however said teamwork, which enables them to share ideas and skills in wool and mohair production enables them to produce quality sheep and goats.
Meanwhile, the farmers who brought sheep and goats of good quality to the exhibition will be given prices.
Source: LENA 27/04/2022