Mafeteng, Aug. 20 — Minister Thabo Mofosi of Environment and Forestry has urged communities to take collective responsibility for protecting the environment and natural resources, stressing the need for sustainable pasture management and improved livelihoods for herdboys and farmers on Wednesday at Ha ‘Matsa.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Mofosi said the government, in collaboration with organisations including Sentebale and Catholic Relief Services (CRS), has developed plans to improve the livelihoods of herdboys and farmers while equipping them with knowledge on proper pasture management.
He urged communities to work closely with Sentebale and CRS to speed up the implementation of programmes aimed at improving their livelihoods and understanding of sustainable pasture management. He warned that beneficiaries should use the support responsibly to avoid returning to their previous conditions.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament Maimane Maphathe expressed appreciation that the event was held in his village, saying it encouraged herdboys to participate in environmental conservation. He urged the community to protect ‘Matsa Mountain and stop the practice of burning it.
Mr. Maphathe said he was pleased to see efforts to conserve the environment and natural resources, noting that conservation would ensure that future generations could also benefit from these resources.
He also expressed concern about the challenges faced by ‘Matsa Primary School and wished the Minister of Education had attended the event to witness the situation firsthand.
Speaking on behalf of the Kopanang Mahlaku Association, Israel Mohato welcomed the event, saying the community would benefit from the knowledge shared on pasture management and pastoral care.
Mr. Mohato appealed for more frequent visits to the community, saying they still face shortages and need additional support. He also called on the ministry to provide another livestock drinking point and grass seeds to improve pasture management in the area.
Ends/MMK/tl
