Nutrition-Sensitive Platform Launched in Botha-Bothe to Strengthen Food Security

A Nutrition-Sensitive Platform has been established in Botha-Bothe District with support from the Smallholder Agriculture Development Project II (SADP II) to improve collaboration among stakeholders addressing nutrition and food security challenges.

During a stakeholders’ meeting introducing the initiative, Improved Nutrition Specialist Mpaki Makara explained that the platform provides a space for dialogue on issues related to nutrition and food production. He said it aligns with the National Food and Nutrition Strategy, which promotes integrated efforts to ensure access to nutritious and sufficient food for all citizens.

Mr Makara highlighted that the platform will allow government ministries, local authorities, and development partners to share experiences and find practical solutions to ongoing nutrition challenges in the district. “The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition has the responsibility to ensure that people produce and consume nutritious food. This platform will help the Ministry and its partners deliver on that mandate,” he said.

He further noted that stunting remains a major public health concern in Lesotho, with all nine districts recording high rates of malnutrition, according to the World Health Organization. Stunting affects children’s growth, learning capacity, and future productivity, making it a key focus area for national nutrition interventions.

The Nutrition-Sensitive Platform will also support coordinated efforts in agricultural practices, food processing, and dietary education, ensuring that interventions are evidence-based and address local needs. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of using the platform to monitor progress, share best practices, and develop strategies to reduce malnutrition in both children and adults.

This initiative represents a step towards building a more resilient and nutrition-conscious food system in Botha-Bothe District, aiming to improve the health and productivity of communities while supporting sustainable agricultural development.