Maseru, Sept. 01 — Climate Smart Agriculture Advocate, Ms. Tiisetso Sefatsane, says aeroponics, a soil-free farming method, is among innovative agricultural approaches that can provide sustainable solutions to challenges affecting food production and agricultural development in Lesotho.
In an interview with the Agency while preparing for aeroponics farming launch, Ms. Sefatsane explained that aeroponic farming is particularly important because it does not require large areas of land or specific locations and can be practised under controlled conditions throughout the year.
She noted that the method allows plant roots to remain suspended in the air while being regularly sprayed or misted with a nutrient-rich water solution, enabling crops to grow without the use of soil.
She further highlighted that a variety of crops, including herbs, lettuce and tomato seedlings, are thriving through the aeroponic farming method.
Meanwhile, Ms. Sefatsane strongly encouraged young people to actively participate in agriculture, saying farming should be approached as a business rather than merely a means of subsistence.
She said young farmers need to understand their target markets, learn how to approach potential customers and acquire effective marketing strategies to ensure the growth and sustainability of their agricultural businesses.
Ms. Sefatsane added that empowering young people with modern agricultural knowledge and entrepreneurial skills could play a significant role in strengthening food production and creating employment opportunities in the country.
She concluded by highlighting that, as a farmer committed to contributing towards the improvement of the country’s agricultural sector, her AgriHive Gardens business plans to visit primary and high schools to raise awareness about the importance of aeroponic farming.
She said the initiative will also provide learners and teachers with comprehensive education on low-cost agricultural production methods and farming operations, with the aim of encouraging them to develop an interest in modern and sustainable agriculture in their schools.
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