The Government of Lesotho, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Potato Lesotho Association, is scaling up potato production to enhance food security, improve rural livelihoods, and strengthen climate resilience. Under the One Country One Priority Product initiative, potatoes have been identified as a strategic agricultural commodity, driving increased productivity and creating new commercial opportunities for Basotho farmers. The initiative was recently highlighted at the 19th FAO Subregional Office for Southern Africa Multi-Disciplinary Team Meeting, showcasing progress in climate-smart agriculture and rural development.
Agriculture remains a key livelihood source in Lesotho, but recent climate shocks, erratic weather patterns, and socioeconomic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic have disrupted crop production and household incomes. In response, the potato was prioritized as a national flagship crop to support resilient, nutrition-focused agriculture, diversify household diets, strengthen domestic food supply, and reduce dependence on imports.
Through this partnership, FAO, the Government of Lesotho, and the Potato Lesotho Association have invested in farmer training, research, and sustainable production technologies. Supported by World Bank funding, farmers received certified seed, fertilizers, and hands-on training in improved agronomic practices and climate-smart techniques. Field demonstrations, technical guidance, and exploratory work on potato tissue culture have helped build local expertise, strengthen community capacity, and prepare farmers for market engagement.
The programme has achieved notable gains across the potato value chain. Potato-growing areas expanded by 146 percent, while farmers reported yield increases of up to 42 percent. National production more than tripled within a single cropping season, reflecting strong adoption of improved inputs and climate-smart practices. Increased availability and affordability of potatoes has led to higher household consumption, supporting healthier and more diverse diets and strengthening food security in rural communities.
Looking ahead, Lesotho plans to further scale its potato sector by engaging the private sector, continuing research, and establishing a tissue culture laboratory to produce high-quality, disease-free seed locally. Expanding seed production will increase yields, meet national demand, and create opportunities for future exports.
By focusing on potato value-chain development, climate-smart technologies, and farmer empowerment, Lesotho is building a resilient, market-driven agricultural system that supports rural prosperity and contributes to long-term national food security.
