Ministry of Agriculture Hosts Agricultural Exhibitions to Promote Nutrition, Market Access, and Agribusiness Growth

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, through the SADP2 project in partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP), has hosted agricultural exhibitions in Thaba Tseka and Maseru to promote market access, improve nutrition, and encourage farmers to view agriculture as a business.

The first event took place on 13 August 2025 at the Mhlanapeng Agricultural Center in Thaba Tseka. Farmers, agricultural experts, and community leaders gathered to showcase progress in crop production, livestock, and handicrafts, while also discussing nutrition and readiness for the summer planting season. Director of the Mhlanapeng Center, Mrs. ’Makeketso Masia, said the exhibition aimed to review performance across agricultural sectors and update farmer production records. Mrs. Mantahli Mots’oene, from ’Maphepo, urged mothers to adopt proper nutrition practices at home to combat child malnutrition. Local leader and prominent farmer, Chief Tlokotsi Makhetha, encouraged farmers to collect seeds from the district office in preparation for summer farming.

The second exhibition was held the same day in Maseru, bringing together farmers, agribusiness stakeholders, and consumers. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Thabo Moleko, said the aim was to connect producers directly with consumers, support emerging farmers, and transform agriculture into a commercial venture. Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Thabo Mofosi, described the event as the beginning of building stronger agricultural partnerships and called on stakeholders to take advantage of platforms that promote agribusiness growth.

Both events featured displays of produce, value-added goods, and innovations from smallholder and emerging farmers. They also provided opportunities to share ideas on sustainable farming, market trends, and strategies to improve yields and livelihoods.

Through these exhibitions, the Ministry of Agriculture reinforced its commitment to modernising Lesotho’s agricultural sector, addressing food security challenges, and promoting economic growth through strong market linkages, nutrition awareness, and farmer empowerment.