In a bid to enhance sweet potato production in Leribe and across Lesotho, the Department of Agriculture Research, under the Ministry of Agriculture, Nutrition, and Food Security, conducted a monitoring exercise on Wednesday at various Farmers Field Schools (FFS).
The FFS initiative is supported by the Agriculture Productivity Program of Southern Africa (APPSA) for Lesotho, aimed at promoting agricultural innovation and improving productivity. The monitored schools included Boiphihlelo, Nthoe-ntle Mantsoana, and Matlakeng Farmers Field Schools, where farmers are trained on best practices for sweet potato cultivation.
Speaking during the exercise, Senior Research Officer for Extension, Ms. Mokhants’o Morahanye, highlighted the significance of the schools in disseminating improved agricultural technologies. She noted that by working with larger groups of farmers, the FFS approach ensures that knowledge and skills are widely shared, making it easier to implement modern farming techniques.
The initiative seeks to address food security challenges by equipping farmers with practical skills and research-based strategies to enhance crop resilience and yield. With sweet potatoes being a key staple and cash crop, the project is expected to contribute to improved nutrition and economic empowerment for farmers in Leribe and beyond.
The government, in collaboration with APPSA, continues to prioritize such programs to modernize agriculture and promote sustainable food production in Lesotho.
