Africa-Press – Lesotho. Off of the 50 Small Micro-Medium Entrepreneurs (SMMEs) enthusiasts between the ages of 18 and 30 in Mafeteng, the youth of Matelile in Mafeteng received a poultry rearing business.
These developments were revealed by the International Development Initiative (IDI) Director Keiso Kolane. The participants in training were chosen through
engaging the study conducted by the National Information System for Social Assistance (NISA) and, distribution of questionnaires. With the aim to eradicate poverty,IDI will be handing out chicks to the
trainees this week and officiating access to a mentor stationed at Matelile to conduct regular visits and mentor beneficiaries. She went on to say highlight the local
hostility owing to famo gangs and wars around areas of Matelile. She says transferring skills to the area’s youth is an investment and potentially a way to end famo inspired feuds.
“We hope to cover the whole country,” she said. Kolane said, further clarifying that the project is in its survey stage
as expected to be complete in 3 years inclusive of 2020. One of the beneficiaries of Matelile, Ha-Seeiso Mpojane Peter Mpojane expressed delight over this project saying it
continues to give them new experiences. He first experienced challenges with the first chicks but at the forefront is having to maintain the chicks with personal
funds. However, the network of poultry farmers often collaborate for mutually beneficial growth pursuits. When well established, network members are advised to delay gratification so as to allow for the exchange of chicken and
poultry farm skills to their fellow youth. The Minister of Small Businesses, Cooperatives and Marketing Hon. Keketso Sello highlighted that SMMEs can also access mentoring and support
from the Basotho Enterprise Development Corporation (BEDCO). He further promised that later this year his Ministry will have formulated the policy. IDI amongst others works with and empowers vulnerable
youth through training sessions towards addressing root causes of their vulnerabilities to poverty. It also has u presence in countries such as Botswana, Malawi and Zimbabwe.
For More News And Analysis About Lesotho Follow Africa-Press
