Browsing by Author "Matela, Likeleli"

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    A history of block farming in Lesotho
    (National University of Lesotho, 0106-08) Matela, Likeleli; Godfrey Hove
    This thesis examines the history of block farming in Lesotho, tracing its origins from 1976 to 2018, using Mokema and Koro-Koro as primary case studies. It explores how its revival in the mid-2000s impacted on the livelihoods of the people. Block farming was initially introduced under Prime Minister Leabua‟s leadership as a strategic response to declining agricultural productivity and increasing food insecurity among Basotho farmers. This programme aimed to enhance food security among Basotho farmers by increasing agricultural productivity through government support and sharecropping arrangements. Despite initial successes in revitalizing fallow lands and improving farmers‟ livelihoods, block farming has faced challenges that hindered its profitability and sustainability. Factors such as fluctuating government support, resilience to climate change and lack of commitment from farmers are explored to understand their impact on the effectiveness of block farming. It demonstrates that some farmers view block farming as not an initiative open to everyone, rather as a political propaganda. Thus, besides filling a gap in existing literature on the impact of block farming, this thesis also engages farmers‟ standpoint about this initiative. This study utilizes qualitative data to assess the impact of block farming on food security in Mokema and Koro-Koro. By analysing historical data, focus group discussions and interviews with stakeholders in Mokema and Koro-Koro, this study provides a nuanced understanding of block farming‟s contributions to agricultural development in Lesotho and assesses its potential for future adaptation in the context evolving socio-economic conditions.