Lesotho Reaffirms Commitment to Food Security at Launch of WFP’s Second-Generation Country Strategic Plan

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, led by Honourable Lejone Mpotjoana, took centre stage during the official launch of the World Food Programme’s (WFP) Second-Generation Country Strategic Plan (2G-CSP) for 2024–2029. The event took place on 25 June 2025 at the Lesotho Agricultural College, marking a significant step forward in the country’s fight against hunger and malnutrition.

Honourable Minister Mpotjoana delivered the keynote address on behalf of the Government of Lesotho. In his speech, he reaffirmed Lesotho’s unwavering commitment to ending hunger, enhancing food systems, and building climate resilience through innovative and collaborative efforts.

The 2G-CSP builds on the successes of the previous strategic plan and introduces more integrated, multisectoral solutions aimed at addressing persistent challenges such as food insecurity, malnutrition, and climate-related risks. A key feature of the new plan is the Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, which targets sourcing 80% of school meals from local farmers. This initiative not only aims to improve nutrition and food security but also supports economic development by creating market opportunities for smallholder farmers across the country.

Minister Mpotjoana commended the World Food Programme for its consistent and impactful support to Lesotho’s development goals. He highlighted the WFP’s crucial role in empowering vulnerable communities, advancing sustainable development, and aligning programmes with Lesotho’s national priorities as well as international frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations underscored its dedication to mobilising resources and fostering strong partnerships to ensure the effective implementation of the 2G-CSP. The government views this new strategy as a critical tool in achieving a hunger-free, resilient, and prosperous Lesotho for all its citizens.