By Matšeliso Phulane
ReNOKA and Alliance Française de Maseru are collaborating to organise a monthly Farmers’ Market in Maseru.
The market aims to foster direct linkages between producers and consumers, offering fresh, quality local food and handcrafted produces to Maseru’s population. It also helps to promote consumers’ understanding of the challenges local producers face in the catchments of Lesotho.
Furthermore, the market contributes to the local economy and promotes a culture of quality consumption and cultural exchange.
After the first test event on June 24 this year which was successful for both vendors and consumers, ReNOKA and Alliance Française de Maseru decided to make the market a monthly event.
It will be held every last Saturday of the month at Alliance Française’s garden, from 10am to 3pm.
The minister of matural resources, Mohlomi Moleko, officiated the launch of the monthly Farmers’ Market last week Saturday.
In attendance were approximately 50 farmers from different districts of Lesotho, who exhibited and sold their produce.
“I am happy to launch today, a farmers’ market initiated by ReNOKA and Alliance Française. I thank them for this great initiative.
“When farmers manage and run their own market they eliminate middlemen. It is a good idea and as the government, we will continue to support farmers in their efforts to increase local supply” Moleko said.
The market provides a platform for local producers – individuals and farmer groups alike – to improve access to markets for their produce such as vegetables, fruits, meat, dairy products, processed food and products including handcrafted blankets and handbags or soaps.
It also creates a forum for farmers to share best practices such as production or marketing techniques.
