Theses and Dissertations

Permanent URI for this collection

https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14155/191

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 136

Open Access
Indigenous knowledge systems pertaining to child health care in Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Lehloka, Maisaka; Setsabi, Setsabi
This study explores how indigenous knowledge systems can contribute to improving child healthcare in Lesotho. Through qualitative analysis, the research uncovers community attitudes towards traditional medicine and its relevance in contemporary healthcare. The findings highlight that recognizing and valuing these indigenous practices can empower communities and promote collaboration between traditional healers and healthcare professionals. Additionally, the study stresses the need to engage younger generations to restore interest in traditional knowledge. To support this, it recommends creating Indigenous Knowledge Centers to boost health literacy and community involvement. Ultimately, this study advocates for a general healthcare framework that honors cultural contexts, paving the way for a healthier future for all children in Lesotho.
Open Access
A history of pastoralism in Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Moqiti, Keratuoe; Attah, Noah Echa
This study explores the history of pastoralism in Lesotho with a specific focus on the challenges encountered by herd boys in Mokhotlong between 2010 and 2020. For rural families in Mokhotlong, a district characterized by rugged terrain, high-altitude plateaus and harsh weather conditions; their animal stock has long served as their primary means of sustenance. However, the reality for herd boys, custodians of this livelihood, is not without hardships. The findings of this study were harvested through qualitative research methods including literature review, archival data, interviews, and focus group discussions. These findings revealed that challenges encountered by herd boys encompassed a web of economic adversities, environmental obstacles and socio-cultural complexities, which were further exacerbated by limited political representation. Efforts to improve access to services, promote sustainable practices and enhance resilience have been made, yet challenges persist. The implementation of nomadic education, the promotion of sustainable pastoral methods, the advancement of social, economic, and political participation, and the strengthening of resilience within this crucial sector of Lesotho's rural community must all be reviewed to solve these concerns.
Open Access
The nexus between modern sanitary wear, accessibility as a basic need and girls academic performance at Mathebe High School in Mafeteng District, Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Sam, Motsamai; Musingafi, Maxwell
This study sought to investigate the nexus between modern sanitary wear accessibility as a basic need and girls’ academic performance at Mathebe High School. The main objectives were to explore the relationship between modern sanitary wear accessibility as a basic need and girls’ academic achievement at Mathebe High School; examine the forms of sanitary wear available to girls at Mathebe High School and explore recommendations that could be made to improve the situation for girls at Mathebe high School. The qualitative research method was used to provide information for the study. The design was a good fit for the target population and the sample, which consisted of people from the same school as the case study. FGIs were used in data collection for this study. The empirical investigation was carried out on three consecutive days: firstly, with girls in Form D and E, secondly with girls in Form D and E grouped together to form one group and boys in Form D and E grouped together to form one group. Finally, the teachers formed a focus group. Thirty six individuals were sampled for this study. Thirty two out of eighty students from Form D and E were sampled for focus group interviews as respondents and four teachers out of ten were sampled focus group interview as respondents. The study established that a lot of girls of age group 15-20 year old at Mathebe High School experienced their first menses without knowledge of what was happening to them. In the past five years, more girls have taken International General Certificate of Secondary Education (LGCSE) examinations than boys at Mathebe high school. Although the enrolment of girls who appeared for LGCSE was high, they performed poorly compared to the boys as most girls face many challenges such as truancy, being late at school, lack of concentration and participation in school activities and get bad grades and get less education than boys. This happens due to the inaccessibility to modern sanitary wear for menstruating girls at Mathebe High School as the monthly cost of modern sanitary wear particularly sanitary pads proved too high for many girls. Also at Mathebe High School, a gender gap in education between boys and girls is reported to exist due to the ill-treatment menstruating girls get from their parents and teachers as menstruation is still a taboo linked to stigma and discrimination against menstruating girls and women. Among other recommendations, the study recommends that schools should provide reliable information about menstruation by hiring a professional health counsellor to encourage changes in behaviour and practice; the government needs to implement and enforce policies that reduce the high cost of modern sanitary wear because menstruation is not an option and no one can go without menstruation. As a result, the high cost limits access to modern sanitary wear for needy and vulnerable school girls in the country.
Open Access
An analysis of political euphemisms
(National University of Lesotho) Nyabela, Mapitso Josephina; Martins, T
This study executes euphemism in Honourable Pakalitha Mosisili’s speeches using the Speech Act Theory as an analytical tool. The aim of the study is to investigate the use of euphemism in Honourable Pakalitha’s speeches. The study used video recordings from YouTube and the Facebook page of Democratic Congress. Pen and paper were used to collect data with an intention of watching and listening to the videos to write the identified euphemisms on the paper. The study’s findings reveal that Honourable Pakalitha has used various types of euphemisms in his speeches. These types include abstraction, metaphor and substitution. The results also highlight that some of the identified euphemisms are the Basotho proverbs of which abstraction was applied metaphorically while substitution was applied to neutralise the offensive word that was meant to be said. Although the types of euphemisms were used to transfer information politely and indirectly, the study also found that Honourable Pakalitha has used euphemism to mock and undermine, mostly using the Basotho idioms. In addition, the study found that euphemism is important in Honourable Pakalitha’s speeches because it allows him to put his thoughts or feelings that can be said to be offensive in a neutralised way. It is also found that the use of euphemism in an Honourable Pakalitha’s speeches is educational to the Basotho because they can learn how to choose vocabulary and start smooth conversations even though the feelings are offended
Open Access
The contribution of potato seed farming to the livelihoods of the farm households at Semonkong and Ha Marakabei in Maseru District, Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Pelane, Rethabile Malikhetla; Rantso, Tsepiso
This study investigated the contribution of seed potato farming to the livelihoods of farm households at Semonkong and Ha Marakabei (in Lesotho) as well as the surrounding communities. The Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) was used in the research study to explore the different variables of seed potato producers including their demographic characteristics, household size, gender, age, educational background/level, land ownership, agricultural practices, sources of the agricultural inputs, land size, quantity of seed potato planted, quality of seed potato harvested, marketing strategies and the challenges and threats experienced. Mixed methods, using quantitative and qualitative approaches, were employed. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used. Data was gathered using face to face interviews and the research tool was administered to three Seed Potato Producers’ Associations. The study was designed in such a way that the ethics were highly considered, ensuring informed consent, confidentiality, as well as respect for the respondents’ cultural values and practices during the entire research process. The findings indicate that seed potato farming in rural households’ livelihoods is very important for both the youths and the adults who are faced with limited formal job employment. It generally generates income and sustains food and nutrition security in farm households. This contribution is beneficial even to the entire surrounding communities because other, non–farm, households get agricultural casual labour opportunities such as weeding and harvesting. The study reveals that the basic seed potato is imported from South Africa, increasing the cost of production for the farmers. The government remains the main buyer of these seed potatoes from the local farmers in bulk. The study further found that seed potato farming is a potential employer in the rural areas and that the government should initiate the necessary supporting programmes to upscale it. These interventions should include extensive capacity building of the farmers on climate smart agricultural technologies, using both indigenous and modern equipment.
Open Access
Adoption of horticulture projects and their effects on socio-economic development of local community in Mahobong community, Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Matsoso, Khamokha; Macheka, Maxwell T
Horticulture sector has emerged as a critical tool for reducing poverty and attaining economic growth globally. It is against this backdrop, that this study assesses the effects of horticulture to the socio-economic development of smallholder farmers in Leribe. The study used mixed research methods incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data, using a case study of farmers and the local community in Mahobong, Leribe. Face to face interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from a total of 35 purposively sampled participants. The findings of the study revealed the positive contribution of horticulture farming, to economic development of the farmers and the local community through income generation and job creation. The results of the study further indicated that horticulture farming contributed to social development, by enabling farmers to afford social benefits like healthcare access, education, shelter, food and water bills because of horticulture farming. The findings of the study also highlighted the various challenges like bad weather conditions, expensive agricultural inputs, lack of markets, theft and snakes that the farmers came across as they were farming their fruits. The study concludes that adoption of horticulture farming serves as a catalyst to both social and economic development of the farmers and other local people. Therefore, the study recommends that in order to increase fruits production, the Government of Lesotho should subsidise agricultural inputs for horticulture farmers.
Open Access
Political and economic impact of the 2018 agricultual marketing (Wool and Mohair) licensing
(National University of Lesotho, 0006) Ramolahloane, Sarah Mantlae; Maliehe, Sean Morenakemang
The Government of Lesotho implemented the Agricultural Marketing Regulations of 2018 to regulate the marketing of wool and mohair with a justification to create a fair and transparent market for the Basotho farmers in the industry. This study examines the political and economic impacts of these regulations. Methodologically, the study depended on primary and secondary historical sources. The study used documentary materials, such as, newspapers, as well as oral interviews covering the introduction and implementation of the Agricultural Marketing Regulations. The outcomes of the research revealed that the regulations largely had adverse political and economic impacts on the local wool and mohair industry. The research conducted for this study demonstrated that, politically, these regulations were resisted by the Basotho farmers, who felt that the government was overstepping its boundaries and interfering in the private market without appropriate consultative measures. This led to protests and backlash from farmers, creating a tense political climate in the industry. Economically, the regulations were a failure. They resulted in a decrease in the production of wool and mohair. Farmers were unable to sell their products at competitive prices due to the government-mandated rigidly standardized pricing structure, which led to a decrease in profits, and economic instability within the industry. Furthermore, the regulations hindered innovation and growth within the sector. The Basotho farmers were discouraged from investing in new technology and techniques. Overall, the new Agricultural Marketing Regulations had adverse political and economic impacts on the industry. Their failure highlights the importance of the state carefully considering all factors and stakeholders before implementing regulatory measures in the agricultural sector. Importantly, the study illuminated that the role of the ordinary people ii through their associations was crucial in successfully opposing regulations imposed by the government
Open Access
An assessment of the usefulness of the concept of food sovereignty in achieving food security in Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho, 0100) Moholoholo, Thuso Hendrick; Setsabi, Setsabi
Lesotho is confronted with ongoing challenges pertaining to food insecurity (FAO, 2023), which are frequently addressed through market-centric strategies such as the Smallholder Agriculture Development Project (SADP). This initiative aims to foster the commercialisation of smallholder agriculture within designated value chains to bolster traditional metrics of food security (World Bank, 2016). Nonetheless, the prevailing food security framework usually neglects more profound issues connected to power dynamics, sustainability, and local governance (Clapp, 2021), which are pivotal to the alternative framework of food sovereignty (the inherent right of communities to determine their own food systems) (Patel, 2009; Wittman et al., 2017). This investigation seeks to fill the significant void in comprehending the potential conflicts and synergies between the market-oriented approach of SADP and the principles of food sovereignty within the context of Lesotho, particularly considering the conspicuous absence of explicit food sovereignty considerations in national policy. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the analytical relevance of the food sovereignty framework in elucidating the lived realities, perceived opportunities, and challenges encountered by farmers participating in the SADP as they navigate pathways toward sustainable food security. Utilising an interpretivist paradigm alongside a qualitative case study methodology (Yin, 2018), the study focuses on farmers affiliated with SADP farmers operating within selected agricultural value chains in the Maseru district of Lesotho. The collection of data primarily hinges on comprehensive, semi-structured interviews, augmented by pertinent document analysis. Thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006, 2021) serves to interpret the perspectives of farmers on essential dimensions of food sovereignty, encompassing autonomy, control over resources (including land, seeds, and knowledge), ecological sustainability, market dependencies, and overall empowerment within the SADP framework. The investigation of these experiences through the perspective of food sovereignty, the study explores the intricate ways in which market integration influences farmer agency and the potential common and uncommon grounds between SADP interventions and the transformative aspirations of food sovereignty. The anticipated results are expected to yield important empirical insights into the discourse related to food security and food sovereignty (e.g., Hospes & Brons, 2016; Patel, 2009), provide policy-relevant considerations for Lesotho in relation to sustainable and stable agricultural development, and inform development practitioners who seek interventions that genuinely empowers smallholder farmers.
Open Access
Availability and access to portable water in rural areas of Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Letsie, Ntsebo Irene; Musingafi, Maxwell C C
This study assessed the availability and accessibility of potable water in Thaba-Tseka, a mountainous district in Lesotho. Despite Lesotho's status as a water-rich country, many communities in Thaba-Tseka face significant challenges in accessing clean drinking water. Access to potable water in Thaba-Tseka District, Lesotho, remains a significant challenge despite the region's proximity to major water infrastructure projects like the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP). The primary objective of studies in this area has been to examine the availability and accessibility of potable water to the people of Thaba Tseka, to examine the challenges to water accessibility to the people of Thaba Tseka and to propose possible solutions to improving water access in Thaba Tseka. Findings indicate that many communities in Thaba-Tseka rely on unprotected water sources, such as open wells and springs, which are susceptible to contamination. This has led to frequent outbreaks of waterborne diseases, including diarrhea and vomiting, particularly affecting children and vulnerable populations. Despite the presence of large dams like Katse and Mohale, constructed under the LHWP to supply water to South Africa, local communities often lack direct access to these water resources. Infrastructure intended to provide clean water has been inadequately maintained, with damaged pipes and taps remaining unrepaired for extended periods due to unclear responsibilities between the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) and the Department of Rural Water Supply (DRWS). The studies conclude that the lack of access to potable water in Thaba-Tseka is not solely due to physical scarcity but is exacerbated by institutional shortcomings, inadequate maintenance of infrastructure, and insufficient community engagement. The disconnect between large-scale water export projects and local water needs highlights a disparity in resource allocation and prioritization. Recommendations emphasize the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to water resource management in Thaba-Tseka. This includes establishing clear accountability between LHDA and DRWS for the maintenance and repair of water infrastructure, investing in the rehabilitation and expansion of local water supply systems, and ensuring that a portion of the revenues generated from water exports is allocated to improve water access for affected communities. Additionally, community-based water management committees should be empowered and trained to oversee local water resources, promoting sustainability and resilience. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving public health, enhancing educational outcomes, and fostering socio-economic development in Thaba-Tseka.
Open Access
The contribution of pathways to sustainability of women's projects at Phuthiatsana Community Council in Berea, Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Tefo, Makali; Musi, Mokone
This study investigates the contribution of Pathways to Sustainable Livelihoods Projects (PSLP) and its influence on the livelihoods of rural women, with a focus on their capacity to promote long-term economic inclusion and resilience. Microfinance has been widely recognised as a tool for poverty alleviation, providing women with access to financial capital to start or expand income-generating activities. However, questions remain regarding the extent to which these initiatives deliver lasting benefits beyond the initial stages of funding. Using a qualitative research design and interviews with microfinance beneficiaries to assess business and livelihood stability, the study found that microfinance programmes significantly contribute to increased productivity, income diversification, and household welfare. However, sustainability is often hindered by factors such as limited access, inadequate business training, and insufficient resource availability. The research emphasises the need for integrated approaches that pair financial support with capacity building, market linkage development, and value addition strategies. By addressing these gaps, microfinance initiatives can move beyond short-term income generation to create enduring, self-sustaining livelihoods for rural women and recommend better ways of implementation that address needs of Phuthiatsana community.
Open Access
The role of irrigated horticulture farming in assuring food security and livelihood making among small-scale commercial farmers in Masianokeng Sub-Centres in the Maseru District, Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Morahanye, Nthona Mary; Rantso, Tsepiso
The purpose of the study was to investigate the role of irrigated horticulture farming in assuring food security and livelihood making among small-scale commercial farmers. Mixed method entailing both qualitative and quantitative approaches was used for data collection in the study. According to the literature of the study, the recurring drought occurrences affect crop yield of the smallholder farmers. It affects the quantity and the quality of crops and in some cases, it leads to total failure of crops. This promotes poverty and food insecurity among smallholder farmers in the country. As an initiative to overcome the impacts of drought, the literature indicates that different measures such as climate smart agriculture practices, National Adaptation Programme and climate change policy and legal framework among others, were introduced by the government of Lesotho. The research findings revealed that irrigated horticulture farming promotes food security and livelihood among smallholder farmers. It caters for all people regardless of their age, gender and educational background. However, the results found that the most dominating group of farmers in this sector, is of less educated people. Irrigated farming enables farmers to diversify crops all year round despite the climate change challenges that they encounter in the farming endeavour. For instance, hail, frost, and pest and disease outbreaks. In order to help the smallholder farmers’ production to prosper, the recommendations have been stipulated to the farmers and the government
Open Access
Different performances in Karabo ea Bophelo Adolescent Girls and Young Women Start-up Kit Projects in improving livelihoods in selected constituencies in Mafeteng, Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Sephelane, Tlalane; Musi, Mokone
Globally, development projects play a pivotal role in improving livelihoods, alleviating poverty and addressing social and economic inequalities especially among marginalized groups. Nonetheless, these projects produce varying levels of success among beneficiaries. This study investigated factors contributing to the different performances observed in Start-up Projects in selected constituencies in Mafeteng, focusing on Adolescent Girls and Young Women. This study used a combination of purposive and snowball sampling to select and interview the participants. Findings revealed that disparities in performance were influenced by a range of factors including individual capacity, market relevance, access to mentorship and logistical challenges especially in remote areas. While some beneficiaries succeeded and became self-sufficient, others struggled due to inadequate support and mismatched resources. The study concludes that a top down approach is ineffective and recommends a more flexible, needs-based approach that incorporates support, ongoing mentorship and local market demand to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of Start-up Projects.
Open Access
Impact of International and local value chain challenges on the employees' working conditions in apparel factories, Maputsoe, Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Rammule, Mahlakolane Pascalina; Musi, Mokone
The apparel industry in Lesotho has been a major source of employment, yet working conditions of employees have long been a concern. This research aimed to investigate the impact of international and local value chain challenges on the working conditions of employees in apparel factories in Maputsoe, Lesotho. The research questions focusing on the effects of cost containment measures, quality control standards, high labour reserve, labour laws and policies on the working conditions of employees. This study employed a qualitative approach to gather primary data. The primary data was analysed using thematic analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of the findings. The findings revealed that the apparel industry in Maputsoe, Lesotho, faces value chain challenges that influence employees working conditions, including exposure to exploitative practices and low wages among others. Finally, the study concluded that challenges within the apparel value chain have a significant impact on the working conditions of employees. The recommendations suggested that the management of firms, labour unions and policy makers should collaborate to improve working conditions of employees such as increased wages.
Open Access
Exploring the effects of socio-cultural factors on English 1.2 learning by visually impaired high school learners
(National University of Lesotho) Motsoko, Julia Malesitsi; Thuube, MR
This study explores the effects of socio-cultural factors on English L2 learning by visually impaired learners at high school level in Lesotho. Its basis is on the understanding that socio-cultural contexts influence how learners with visual impairment learn English as a second language (L2). The study used a qualitative case-by-case study design, guided by Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and the Social Model of Disability. Data were collected through the use of interviews with two English L2 teachers, five visually impaired learners and an analysis of the Lesotho Inclusive Education Policy (LIEP, 2018), with the aim of uncovering their lived experiences that hinder or facilitate their English L2 teaching and learning. Based on the collected data, the findings indicate that socio-cultural factors, such as limited access to learning materials, inadequate teacher training, peer attitudes, and societal perceptions of disability, have an impact on the learning of English L2. While some learners benefitted from supportive environments, some still faced systemic hindrances to their learning. The study concludes that there is a non-alignment between the policy and the actual implementation in high schools. Socio-cultural factors considerably shape the learning of English L2, and there is employment of individual strategies to overcome barriers by teachers and learners because of a lack of adequate formal structures. According to the findings, the following recommendations are made: there is a need to strengthen the LIEP (2018) through the development of structured guidelines for the implementation of inclusive practices; there is also a need for recurrent monitoring in schools and a mandatory course on inclusive education in pre-service training of teachers and in-service teachers. Additionally, schools should put up support structures that enable collaborative learning, raise awareness about impairment and ensure that the necessary assistive devices are at the disposal of the visually impaired learners. Finally, for future research, the study recommends incorporating diverse stakeholders in inclusive education to gain insights on its implementation in Lesotho and the need to cover the rural areas in future research.
Open Access
Assessing the effects of mining activities on youth livelihoods in mining communities in Lesotho
(National University of Lesotho) Monyane, Neo; Macheka, MT
The extraction of natural resources by global mining, has significantly impacts on livelihoods of people in the mining communities in Lesotho. Against the background, this study assesses the impact of mining companies on the livelihoods of youths in mining communities, drawing on experiences from Storm Mountain Diamond mine and the youth in the Kao community. The study adopted mixed method where structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. A total of 58 participants were engaged in the study. The study findings revealed that the youth around the Storm Mountain Diamond (SMD) mine engaged in farming, animal rearing, illegal mining and housework, which helped to improve their livelihoods before the establishment of the mine. The findings also revealed that after the establishment of the SMD mine, it contributed to skill development for youth, created employment opportunities for youth in the Kao community and promoted animal husbandry to improve the livelihoods of youths in the mining communities. However, the study revealed that the expansion of the SMD mine negatively affected youth farming and the operation of the SMD mine had harmful effects on youth farmers who reared animals. Additionally, the large-scale mining at SMD impacted previous illegal mining activities, which further harmed the livelihood of local youth. This study concludes that the presence of the Storm Mountain Diamond mine in the Kao community has had a positive impact on the livelihoods of youths, despite the challenges they still face due to the mine’s presence. The study therefore recommends that the comprehensive community development program be established to actively involve youth in decision-making processes related to mining activities
Open Access
Sexual and reproductive health rights of women with disabilities
(National University of Lesotho, 0100) Sesheme, Neo; Musingafi, Maxwell
This study aimed to investigate the challenges women with disabilities (WWDs) face in accessing sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) in Maseru, Lesotho. The research objectives were: to analyze the existing policy and legislative frameworks related to sexual and reproductive health rights for women with disabilities in Maseru, Lesotho, to examine the current sexual and reproductive health experiences of women with disabilities in Maseru, Lesotho, to evaluate the challenges faced by women with disabilities in accessing sexual and reproductive health services in Maseru, Lesotho; and to generate potential strategies and interventions that can effectively address the identified WWDs challenges and discrimination vis a vis their sexual and reproductive health rights in Maseru, Lesotho. The study employed a qualitative study methodology, employing focus group discussions, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to collect rich and in-depth data from various participants, such as WWDs, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The findings showed that there were many challenges to WWDs' access to SRHR, including negative social attitudes, lack of disability-friendly infrastructure in health facilities, limited trained healthcare providers, and lack of disability-sensitive laws and policies. The study therefore concluded that it is important to empower women with disabilities (WWDs) through peer support groups and advocacy programs in being well-positioned to respond effectively to challenges facing them in accessing sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), also there is necessity of developing a culture of a caring community among WWDs in an effort to make them feel a sense of belonging, compassion, and commonality. Again, there is a need to build a disability friendly infrastructure to ensure that WWDs are able to access service centers. The study's limitations involved geographical confinement to the Maseru area, narrow disability categories, self-reporting bias, and recruitment challenges resulting from the sensitive nature of the study. It is therefore recommended that future research overcome these limitations through the use of an expanded range of disability categories, geographical expansion, and triangulation of results through various data sources. By going beyond these limitations and recommendations, future studies can be more effective in enabling a better understanding of WWDs' experiences of barriers to accessing SRHR and raising more inclusive and effective policy and practices that promote the rights and well-being of all women regardless of their disability or geographical location. The study concludes by appealing for targeted interventions and stakeholder interaction towards improving equitable access of SRHR by WWDs.
Open Access
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.
Open Access
The evolution of the Lesotho National Flag
(National University of Lesotho, 2024) Senyane, Bohlokoa;
The study analyses the evolution of the Lesotho national flag through the semiotic lens. The research is carried out with the aims to establish what each of the six colours of the Lesotho national flag versions represent. The study also aims to uncover the reasons that prompted the evolution of the national flag. Another aim is to establish the significance of the colours and the symbols of the three national flag versions. The research uses semi-structured interviews to collect data. The sample for the study is collected in three districts; Maseru, Berea and Leribe. The findings reveal that the representation of three of the colours of the national flag, blue, green and white are expressed in the national motto of Lesotho which is khotso, pula, nala. The study further finds that the interpretations of the colours which are used on the Lesotho national flags align with the global symbolism of the six colours. Among other reasons, the findings show that the evolution of the national flag of Lesotho was prompted by the change in political power. The reason influenced both the first and second evolution of the flag. The study also finds that the reasons for the evolution of the Lesotho national flag and the impact of such evolution on society align with those that influence the evolution of national flags globally. The findings reveal, among other things, that the significance of mokorotlo to the Basotho is that it shows prominence and national identity. The findings also reveal the significance of the Coat of Arms as preserving the monarchy and the tribal identities of the Basotho nation. The study recommends that further research be conducted on the Lesotho national flags to determine the criteria which were used when selecting the national flag design to use. The study also recommends that further research be carried out to determine the criteria which were used when deciding which national symbols to use on the three Lesotho national flags. Further research may also be conducted on the semiotic analysis of other flags and colours in Lesotho.
Open Access
Review of the culture of Ho khetheloa molekane (Parental choice of spouses) in Meokho ea Thabo, Liketso and Kotleloa Sehong
(National University of Lesotho, 2022-08) Ncheke, Nthabiseng Grace;
This research seeks to find out the significance of the culture of ho khethela molekane (parental choice of spouses) in the Basotho society. The study focuses on the rationale behind the culture of ho khethela molekane, its merits and the impact of the Western culture on the culture of ho khethela molekane. Three Sesotho novels were analysed to explore how the culture of ho khethela molekane (parental choice of spouses) is presented as a theme in Sesotho novels. The novels under study were published in different years: Meokho ea Thabo by Khaketla (1979), Liketso by Morojele (1987) and Kotleloa Sehong by Ramakhula (2005). The researcher purposively selected novels from 1979 to 2005 to find out how Sesotho authors of different times portray the culture of ho khethela molekane (parental choice of spouses). The study reveals that amongst the Basotho society, the culture of ho khethela molekane (parental choice of spouses) is practiced because it is deemed a parental duty to choose spouses for their sons and daughters, and the culture of ho khethela molekane is also practiced to preserve the cultural norms and practices of Basothosociety. Furthermore, the culture of ho khethela molekane (parental choice of spouses) has the following merits: helping in maintaining and strengthening family friendships as well as guaranteeing the unconditional support of the internal and extended family members of the married couple in Basotho society. The culture of ho khethela molekane also led to sustainable marriages. However, the study concludes that the Western culture has had a negative impact on the culture of ho khethela molekane. The factors of the Western culture that harm v the culture of ho khethela molekane are Christianity and the Western education system. Based on the conclusions drawn from the findings of this study, the researcherrecommends that more novels be published to portray the significance of the culture of ho khethela molekane (parental choice of spouses).
Open Access
Presentation of Bongaka (Indigenous medical practices) in Chaka by Mofolo, Meokho ea Thabo by Khaketla and Molahluoa by Tsasanyane-Ralengau
(National University of Lesotho, 2022-08-31) Makhetha, Sefora;
The study analyses the presentation of bongaka in the selected Sesotho texts. The purpose of this study is to investigate the presentation of bongaka (indigenous medical practices), the procedures used in administering bongaka as well as the perceptions of characters about bongaka in Chaka, Meokho ea Thabo and Molahluoa. The study is qualitative in nature. It employed documents as a method of data collection and used purposive sampling method. Data has been analysed thematically using Afrocentricity theory. The following aspects, centrality or location and relocation have been used to examine the presentation of bongaka. The study discovers that the characters use bongaka for their health needs and personal problems. Diseases are also cured, and personal problems are solved. The study reveals that lingaka are presented carrying apparatus such as fly-whisk. They dress in their own way, which identifies them from other members of the society. They wear hats made of animal skins. Moreover, the efficacy of their services is visible. They use various methods of treatment that include divination to cure ailments and in addressing a patientʼs needs. They give instructions regarding the use of traditional medicine. Other characters believe that lingaka can cure their ailments and solve their problems. Lingaka are also presented as knowledgeable people. The study recommends that lingaka should be supported and acknowledged for their work