BEREA, Oct. 28 — The high demand for pork, particularly during the festive season, presents an opportunity for Basotho farmers to expand local production and reduce reliance on imports, a Berea-based agricultural entrepreneur has said.
Mr. Bokoro Koote of T.Y Greens and Poultry Farm said the country’s pork market remains an opportunity for local producers, urging Basotho, particularly young people, to venture into pig farming to meet growing demand.
He said demand for pork rises significantly during the festive season, when individuals, families and groups purchase the meat in large quantities, creating opportunities that local producers could capitalise on.
Mr. Koote observed that when domestic production fails to meet demand, the resulting market gap creates opportunities for external suppliers to fill the shortfall, limiting the potential for local farmers to benefit from the demand.
He encouraged aspiring farmers to view piggery not only as a source of income but also as a viable agricultural enterprise that could contribute to employment creation, particularly among young people facing limited job opportunities.
“Basotho, especially the youth, should explore pig farming as a business opportunity. There is a market to serve, particularly during the festive season, and local producers should position themselves to meet that demand,” he said.
Mr. Koote said expanding local production could help retain more economic value within Lesotho by enabling domestic farmers to supply consumers who might otherwise depend on imported pork.
Through T.Y Greens and Poultry Farm, Mr. Koote provides pig breeding services and offers individuals and students an opportunity to learn about pig farming at his farm in Berea.
However, Mr. Koote cautions that entering the sector requires more than recognising market demand, emphasising the importance of proper animal care, hygiene and sound farm management to ensure production meets the required standards.
He stressed that farmers must be prepared to maintain appropriate housing, feeding and health management practices to sustain production and supply quality pork to the market.
Expanding local pork production, he said, could offer Basotho farmers an opportunity to participate in a market where seasonal demand creates room for growth, provided they can produce consistently and meet the required standards.
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