Rethinking Agriculture for Lesotho’s Economic Revival: Insights from Former Ombudsman Advocate Leshele Thoahlane KC

During the bicentennial celebration of Lesotho’s existence as a nation, former Ombudsman Advocate Leshele Thoahlane KC delivered a thought-provoking message emphasizing the need to reconsider agriculture as a fundamental strategy for enhancing the country’s economy. His remarks come at a critical juncture when the Lesotho government is focused on the radical implementation of its four priority areas outlined in the National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP II) Review Extension: agriculture, tourism, technology, and trade.

A Call for Agricultural Re-evaluation

Advocate Thoahlane underscored the importance of agriculture not only as a source of sustenance but as a pivotal economic driver. He posited that, historically, agriculture has been a cornerstone of Lesotho’s economy, providing livelihoods and food security. However, as the nation marks 200 years of existence, it is crucial for Basotho to reflect on their agricultural practices and policies, particularly during a time when poverty and hunger are pressing challenges.

“Lesotho has witnessed periods where hunger was not a prevalent issue,” Thoahlane noted. He encouraged the citizens to look back at those times and consider what practices contributed to food security and economic stability. The Advocate argued that by revisiting and revitalizing agricultural strategies, Lesotho could significantly improve its economic landscape.

Aligning with National Priorities

The government’s commitment to NSDP II aims to address the socio-economic challenges facing Lesotho. With agriculture being one of the core focus areas, Thoahlane’s insights align well with this strategic vision. He stressed that agriculture should be viewed not merely as a subsistence activity but as a viable economic sector capable of driving growth and development.

The Advocate urged stakeholders, including government, private sector players, and civil society, to collaborate in reimagining agriculture. This could involve investing in modern agricultural techniques, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting agricultural education to equip the next generation with the necessary skills.

Beyond the Bicentennial: A Vision for the Future

As Lesotho celebrates its bicentennial, Advocate Thoahlane’s call for a renewed focus on agriculture serves as a reminder of the resilience and potential of the Basotho people. The Advocate believes that by prioritizing agricultural development, the country can tackle poverty, improve food security, and create employment opportunities.

Moreover, Thoahlane emphasized that embracing agriculture could help mitigate the impact of climate change, which poses a significant threat to food production. Sustainable farming practices can enhance resilience against environmental challenges while fostering economic stability.

Advocate Leshele Thoahlane KC’s address during the bicentennial celebration resonates with a deep understanding of Lesotho’s historical context and future potential. By re-evaluating agriculture’s role in the national economy, Basotho can draw inspiration from their past while paving the way for a prosperous future. As the government implements the NSDP II priorities, the time has come for all citizens to engage in a collective effort to transform agriculture into a cornerstone of economic resilience and growth, ensuring that poverty and hunger become challenges of the past.