Seithati Motsoeneng
IN a significant step towards addressing climate change, Lesotho has launched two ambitious initiatives: the Resilient Landscape Restoration (ROLL) and the Integrated Initiatives for Climate and Other Fund (IICOF).
These projects aim to enhance the country’s resilience to climate variability.
As one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, Lesotho faces major challenges, including erratic rainfall patterns and rising temperatures, which threaten agricultural productivity and water resources.
Funded by the Climate Adaptation Fund, these projects will focus on sustainable agricultural practices, improved water management, and the restoration of degraded landscapes. The ROLL project prioritizes landscape restoration strategies to rehabilitate areas affected by deforestation and soil erosion, improving ecosystem health and productivity.
On the other hand, the IICOF is designed to integrate various climate-related initiatives across sectors, ensuring a cohesive approach to climate adaptation.
At the heart of these projects are local communities. By actively involving community members in both planning and implementation, the initiatives ensure that interventions are tailored to the specific needs and challenges faced by the people. This collaborative approach not only fosters local ownership but also empowers communities, enhancing their ability to adapt to changing climatic conditions.
The National Climate Change Chairperson of Lesotho, Mofihli Phaqhane, told the Sunday Express that these projects are vital for strengthening food security and protecting the country’s rich biodiversity.
“As the global community grapples with the realities of climate change, Lesotho’s proactive measures contribute to international efforts aimed at sustainability and environmental stewardship. The goal is to build a resilient future for our communities,” Mr Phaqane said.
Mr Phaqhane also emphasized the importance of tapping into the Climate Adaptation Fund to safeguard the environment and improve the livelihoods of the nation’s people.
However, he pointed out that although Lesotho has successfully secured funding from the Adaptation Fund, it has not yet been able to access carbon tax benefits due to complex negotiations and requirements.
He explained that for the country to benefit from carbon tax funds, a powerful nation must designate a forest site to mitigate pollution, a process that has been challenging for Lesotho. While some countries have accessed such funding, Lesotho has yet to succeed.