The World Bank approved a $10 million additional financing from the International Development Association (IDA)* to Lesotho's ongoing Smallholder Agriculture Development Project (SADP). The added funds are aimed at increasing market output among smallholders in Lesotho's agriculture sector.

Under SADP, which became effective in March 2012, over 55,000 beneficiaries across four of Lesotho's ten districts (Botha-Buthe, Leribe, Berea and Mafeteng) have been provided with grants and technical assistance to boost their productivity and market access. The additional funds will continue support to smallholder development - in the initial four districts, as well as those in Mohale's Hoek and Quthing - with a new added focus on climate-smart production.

"Smallholder farming has great potential to feed people and help boost economic growth. The World Bank is committed to partnering with Lesotho in its endeavor to fight poverty and sustainably grow its economy," said Paul Noumba Um, World Bank Country Director for Lesotho, Botswana, South Africa, Swaziland, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Grants will be awarded to farmers to test and demonstrate new business initiatives and technological innovations, especially those that focus on climate-smart agriculture (agricultural practices that increase productivity, build resilience, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions). Under the additional financing, farmer groups, as well as government agencies will also be supported to improve food quality and safety standards.