Lesotho and WFP Strengthen Strategic Partnership in Addis Ababa Meeting

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Honourable Lejone Mpotjoane, met with Ms Lydie Kouame, Acting Director of the World Food Programme African Union Global Office, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a move that reinforced Lesotho’s growing role in regional and global food security discussions. The bilateral engagement focused on deepening cooperation between the Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho and the WFP Country Office. Both parties reviewed ongoing programmes and assessed progress made under existing frameworks. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to practical solutions that improve food systems and strengthen institutional capacity. The meeting also positioned Lesotho as an active partner in shaping development strategies aligned with continental priorities.

Central to the talks was the development and launch of the Second Generation Country Strategic Plan, which aligns with Lesotho’s National Strategic Development Plan II. This framework guides WFP support in areas such as food security, nutrition, resilience building and institutional strengthening. By aligning international assistance with national development priorities, Lesotho aims to improve efficiency and measurable impact. The strategic plan sets clear targets that focus on reducing hunger, supporting vulnerable households and building stronger national systems. This coordinated approach ensures that resources address defined national goals while supporting long term economic growth.

A key highlight of the meeting was support for smallholder farmers through the home grown school feeding programme. This initiative links local agricultural production to school nutrition schemes, creating stable markets for farmers while improving child nutrition. Smallholder farmers benefit from predictable demand, which increases household income and supports rural economies. At the same time, learners receive nutritious meals that improve concentration, attendance and academic performance. Strengthening national systems for resilient food production remains critical as Lesotho continues to face climate shocks, rising food costs and structural economic challenges.

The Minister also emphasised the importance of advancing His Majesty King Letsie III’s nutrition agenda through nationwide campaigns and partnerships. The King has consistently advocated for improved nutrition as a foundation for human capital development and economic progress. Nationwide campaigns aim to raise awareness about balanced diets, food fortification and sustainable agricultural practices. These efforts align with global nutrition targets and reinforce Lesotho’s commitment to tackling malnutrition in all its forms. Through coordinated advocacy and community level engagement, the country seeks to reduce stunting and improve overall health outcomes.

During the engagement, Honourable Mpotjoane called for enhanced resource mobilisation and stronger knowledge sharing mechanisms to address Lesotho’s unique structural challenges. As a landlocked country with limited arable land and vulnerability to climate variability, Lesotho requires targeted support and innovative financing solutions. The Minister encouraged collaboration that unlocks climate resilient value chains and promotes inclusive private sector development. Strengthening partnerships with development agencies and investors can help scale agricultural productivity and expand market access. The Addis Ababa meeting underscored Lesotho’s determination to translate diplomatic engagement into tangible development outcomes that secure food systems and drive sustainable growth.