Dr. Khothatso Tsooana Attends 49th IFAD Governing Council in Rome

Dr. Khothatso Tsooana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, is representing Lesotho at the 49th Session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Governing Council. The session is taking place from 10 to 11 February 2026 at IFAD Headquarters in Rome. Dr. Tsooana participates in his capacity as the newly appointed Governor for the Kingdom of Lesotho, bringing the country’s perspective to discussions on global agricultural development. The 2026 Governing Council focuses on the theme “From Farm to Market: Investing with Young Entrepreneurs,” emphasizing the role of rural youth in driving inclusive and sustainable agricultural growth. This session also marks the launch of the International Year of the Woman Farmer, highlighting the contributions of women in agriculture worldwide.

Lesotho has maintained a long-standing partnership with IFAD, leveraging the organization’s support to strengthen food security and rural livelihoods. Over the years, IFAD has financed key projects that target smallholder farmers, youth, and women, helping to reduce poverty in rural communities. Dr. Tsooana’s participation provides an opportunity to review ongoing initiatives and explore new approaches to empower rural populations. By engaging directly with IFAD decision-makers, Lesotho aims to secure resources and technical support for programs that promote agricultural innovation and market access. The collaboration underscores Lesotho’s commitment to sustainable development and its efforts to create opportunities for young farmers and entrepreneurs across the country.

The Governing Council provides a platform for member states to share experiences, discuss policy frameworks, and identify strategies to achieve inclusive growth in agriculture. Dr. Tsooana is expected to highlight Lesotho’s priorities, including enhancing productivity, supporting youth-led enterprises, and advancing gender equality in farming. IFAD’s initiatives have proven effective in delivering training, financing, and infrastructure support to rural communities, strengthening resilience and boosting income generation. By participating in these high-level discussions, Lesotho ensures its rural development strategies align with international best practices and emerging trends in agricultural finance. The session reinforces the importance of investing in human capital, innovative practices, and sustainable systems to transform rural economies.

Lesotho’s engagement at the IFAD Governing Council 2026 signals a renewed commitment to scaling up its agricultural sector. The country seeks to integrate youth empowerment and women’s participation into broader food security programs, enhancing economic opportunities and community well-being. Through partnerships with IFAD, Lesotho can access funding, technical expertise, and global networks that support the country’s development goals. Dr. Tsooana’s leadership at the session ensures that Lesotho’s voice is heard, positioning the country as an active contributor to discussions on sustainable agriculture and rural transformation. The outcomes of the session are expected to influence policy direction, investment priorities, and program design for years to come.