Japan Donates US$1.36 Million to Bolster Lesotho's School Feeding Programme

Maseru – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in Lesotho has received a significant boost with a JPY 200 million (approximately US$1.36 million) contribution from the Government of Japan. This funding will be channeled into Lesotho's national school feeding programme, aiming to provide essential nutrition to vulnerable pre-primary learners across the nation.

Supporting 50,000 Learners and Strengthening Local Food Systems

Over the next year, this generous contribution will directly benefit an estimated 50,000 pre-primary school children in Lesotho. The WFP anticipates that the funding will ensure the uninterrupted provision of hot, nutritious meals, a crucial factor in improving school attendance and enhancing learning outcomes for young children. Beyond immediate nutritional support, the grant will also facilitate the expansion of Lesotho's home-grown school meals programme.

This expansion is particularly significant as it aims to connect smallholder farmers to schools, thereby strengthening local food systems and creating sustainable livelihoods within the country. By sourcing food locally, the programme not only provides nutritious meals but also supports the agricultural sector and reduces reliance on imported food.

A History of Collaboration

"We highly appreciate Japan's continued support to Lesotho," stated Mr. Elliot Vhurumuku, WFP Representative and Country Director in Lesotho. "Over the past five years, their contribution has enabled WFP to sustain the Government's national school feeding programme while strengthening climate-resilient food systems and sustainable livelihoods in Lesotho."

Japan's commitment to Lesotho's development extends beyond this recent contribution. The consistent support over the past half-decade highlights a strong partnership focused on addressing food security and building resilience against climate change, issues that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations in Lesotho.

The Importance of School Feeding Programmes in Africa

School feeding programmes are recognized globally as a vital tool in combating malnutrition, promoting education, and fostering economic development. In Africa, where food insecurity and poverty remain significant challenges, these programmes play a particularly crucial role. They act as a safety net for vulnerable children, providing them with a reliable source of nutrition and incentivizing school attendance.

Dr. Khosi Mabaso, a nutrition expert at the University of Cape Town, emphasizes the long-term benefits of school feeding programmes. “Investing in the nutrition of young children is an investment in the future. These programmes not only address immediate hunger but also contribute to improved cognitive development, better health outcomes, and increased productivity later in life,” she explains. "Furthermore, the home-grown component strengthens local economies and empowers smallholder farmers, creating a virtuous cycle of development."

Challenges and Opportunities in Lesotho

Lesotho, a small, landlocked country surrounded by South Africa, faces unique challenges in achieving food security. Its mountainous terrain limits agricultural production, and climate change is exacerbating existing vulnerabilities. Droughts and erratic rainfall patterns frequently disrupt harvests, leading to food shortages and increased reliance on external aid. The country also has a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, which further complicates efforts to improve nutrition and livelihoods.

Despite these challenges, Lesotho has made significant progress in recent years in strengthening its food systems and improving the nutritional status of its population. The government's commitment to the national school feeding programme, coupled with the support of international partners like the WFP and Japan, provides a strong foundation for continued progress. The emphasis on home-grown school meals is particularly promising, as it offers a sustainable solution that benefits both children and local farmers.

Looking Ahead

The WFP and the Government of Lesotho will continue to work together to ensure that the school feeding programme reaches all eligible children and contributes to the country's broader development goals. This latest contribution from Japan is a testament to the power of international cooperation in addressing critical challenges and building a more prosperous and resilient future for Lesotho.

Professor Adebayo Williams, a development economist at the University of Ibadan, notes that sustainability is key for these programs. "While external funding is crucial, Lesotho must continue to invest in its own agricultural sector and strengthen its capacity to manage and sustain the school feeding program independently in the long term," he advises. "This requires a multi-faceted approach that includes improving agricultural practices, promoting diversification, and strengthening market linkages."