In a bid to improve nutrition and strengthen food security across the country, First National Bank Lesotho (FNB) this week donated Panar maize seeds and fertilizers estimated at M 100,000 to members of the Lesotho National Farmers Union (LENAFU) in Leribe district.
The donations were handed over to 20 LENAFU members from Maputsoe and Hlotse, with each recipient receiving 20kg of seeds and 100kg of fertilizer.
With this donation, FNB Lesotho reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local agriculture and well-being of communities across Lesotho.
The initiative is also part of celebrating King Letsie III’s as African Union (AU) nutrition champion, as well as 20 years of FNB’s existence in Lesotho.
In his remarks, Lerato Mohale from the bank’s marketing and communication department said: “These are actually gifts for celebrating King Letsie III’s birthday. In line with being nutrition champion for the AU, we as FNB decided to do something which is donating seeds and fertilisers. Apart from that, we are celebrating 20 years since FNB was established on October, 25.
“Last year, we handed over one 10 kg seeds and two 50 kg bags of fertiliser to Maseru and Berea farmers. This year, with FNB celebrating its 20 years in Lesotho, we have decided to approach Maputsoe and Hlotse farmers to donate to two 10 kgs of seeds and two 50 kg bags of fertilizers to 20 farmers.”
He added that FNB had presented samples of the gifts to the King to bless them, before officially handing them over to the farmers. Mohale also expressed his excitement on behalf of FNB especially for their continuous support to the bank.
On behalf of LENAFU, ‘Malichaba Jankuru thanked FNB, noting that the donation will help farmers break the shackles of hunger and poverty which seem to be major challenges in Lesotho.
“We would like to thank King Letsie III who recognises that there are people who are willing to engage in farming.
“However, it is quite disturbing to note that many farming fields are now being used for residential purposes. We call for the practice to stopped stop,” she said.
The vice president of LENAFU, Daniel Chakela, vowed to follow up on the seeds to make sure they are used for their intended purpose.
“We are really grateful to FNB. We also laud the fact that banks are no longer reluctant to lend money to farmers. This is indeed a good step in the right direction, and I will encourage fellow farmers to start banking with you,” Chakela said.
