What percentage of Lesotho’s population rely on agriculture?
Roughly 80 percent of Lesotho¡¯s population depends on subsistent agriculture for their livelihoods. Agriculture¡¯s contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has declined over the last five years. However, there is potential for commercial agriculture. Approximately 75 percent of the total land area is suitable for agricultural production.
Why is horticulture growing in Lesotho?
The horticulture sector is growing in Lesotho and drawing an increased focus after the implementation of the World Bank-supported Private Sector Competitiveness (PSC) project. The project has two sub-components: the production of vegetables and the production of fruit trees, specifically apples and cherries.
Does Lesotho have a food industry?
Lesotho currently does not have processing and packing facilities for these products, so another opportunity exists in food processing. Eggs and chickens are major sources of protein consumed in Lesotho, but the poultry industry is relatively under-developed.
Why is agriculture important in Lesotho?
The Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho (GOKL) identified agriculture as one of the productive sectors for job creation and poverty reduction under its 2018-2023 National Strategic Development Plan. Roughly 80 percent of Lesotho¡¯s population depends on subsistent agriculture for their livelihoods.