Lesotho Farmers Ready for Summer Cropping Following Much-Anticipated Rain Showers

After a prolonged drought, farmers across Lesotho are expressing optimism as they prepare for the summer cropping season, thanks to the rain showers that swept across the country from the night of September 16, 2024, into the early hours of Tuesday morning.

In an interview with the Agency on Tuesday, Mr. Ntsime Seoja, a farmer from Thuathe, highlighted the significance of the recent rains, noting that they have restored hope for a better cropping season. “The rain showers have given us hope after the long drought that severely impacted last season’s yields,” said Seoja.

He further explained that the rains arrived at a crucial time, just as farmers were gearing up for summer cropping. The moisture in the soil will now make it easier for seeds to sprout, a key factor in ensuring a successful harvest. “This rain came at the right moment. The soil is now moist, and this will enable us to plant our seeds with confidence, knowing they will germinate well,” Seoja added.

Many regions of Lesotho had been grappling with a dry spell that led to reduced yields and food insecurity, prompting concerns among the agricultural community. The recent rains are seen as a positive sign, providing a much-needed boost for the country’s farmers, who are now ready to embark on their summer cropping journey.

The summer cropping season is a vital period for Lesotho’s farmers, as it provides them with the opportunity to grow staple crops like maize, sorghum, and beans. With the rains finally arriving, farmers are hopeful that this season will bring better yields and help mitigate the challenges they have faced due to erratic weather patterns in recent years.

As the country moves into the crucial planting season, farmers like Mr. Seoja remain optimistic that this year’s summer cropping will yield fruitful results, provided the rains continue and weather conditions remain favorable.