Abstract

The agricultural sector in Lesotho is characterized by low productivity, limited cash crop production and poor farm management practices. As a result, the country imports nearly 50 percent of its domestic food requirement. Agricultural marketing has been singled out as one of the priority areas for improvement but more information in the existing trade in commodities is required before specific recommendations can be made. This project will enable the National University of Lesotho and the University of Saskatchewan to study selected problems in agricultural marketing with a view to assisting policymakers to improve marketing strategies and infrastructure and advance agricultural development.

Post-Project Summary

This project involved collaborative research between the University of Lesotho and the University of Saskatchewan on the topics of livestock and range management; vegetable marketing; and dairy marketing and trade policy in Lesotho. Based on a literature review and household surveys, researchers noted the development and existing structure of cattle marketing, and identified ways to improve the system. A financial analysis of the livestock system was completed, alternative development programs were assessed; and recommendations for problems of overstocking were made. A conceptual livestock model which integrated production, livestock use, range management, and conservation issues for Lesotho conditions was also developed. Study on vegetable marketing addressed marketing channels, producers and suppliers, networking, and wholesale, retail, and economic activities. The effects of alternative trade and economic policies for the Lesotho dairy industry were examined, and strategies to improve the industry's economy were suggested. Researchers presented findings at seminars in Africa, the United States, and Canada, as well as at local horticultural conferences and rural extension meetings. Areas for further study were identified. Support continued in a second phase.

Recipient Institution(s)