Over 40 members of community groups from Ha-Matholoana, Ha-Mafamolane, and Mamatebele catchments recently completed a four-day training on health and safety. The training was hosted by the Regeneration of Livelihoods and Landscapes (ROLL) project at Teyateyaneng and facilitated by the Lesotho Mounted Police Services (LMPS) Fire and Rescue Unit.
The participants represented diverse community groups, including nutrition clubs, youth organizations, grazing associations, farmers, and community leaders. This diversity underscored the inclusive approach of the ROLL project, which aims to empower local communities with the skills and knowledge necessary to enhance their resilience and ensure safer practices in their daily activities.
Objectives of the Training
The primary goal of the training was to equip participants with essential health and safety skills to address risks related to fire, accidents, and environmental hazards. The program also emphasized preparedness and effective response in emergencies.
Key topics covered included:
- Fire Prevention and Management: Understanding fire hazards, safe handling of flammable materials, and strategies to mitigate fire risks.
- Emergency Response Skills: Basic first aid, evacuation procedures, and coordination during disasters.
- Environmental Health and Safety: Safe farming practices, proper grazing management, and promoting sustainable land use to minimize hazards.
Empowering Communities
ROLL Project Coordinator emphasized the importance of empowering communities to take ownership of their health and safety. “This training is part of our broader mission to regenerate livelihoods and landscapes. By equipping individuals with safety skills, we ensure that they can protect themselves, their families, and their environments,” she said.
A representative from the LMPS Fire and Rescue Unit praised the participants for their active engagement, noting that the training would have a lasting impact. “When communities understand safety principles, they become better equipped to prevent emergencies and save lives,” he remarked.
Participant Feedback
Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn practical skills that directly impact their communities. One member of a local grazing association shared, “This training opened our eyes to the dangers we often overlook. We are now better prepared to handle emergencies and keep our communities safe.”
A youth representative also highlighted how the training fostered collaboration between different groups. “We’ve learned so much, and we’ll work together to implement what we’ve gained here,” she said.
A Step Toward Sustainability
The ROLL project continues to make strides in fostering sustainable development across Lesotho. By integrating health and safety training into its initiatives, the project not only enhances the well-being of individuals but also strengthens community resilience in the face of challenges.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to empowering local communities and ensuring a safer, more sustainable future for all.
