By Redaction ARPS Media with GroundUP
The Sustainable Transformation of Enterprises in the Poultry Sector (STEPS) project has been canceled.
This $31.4 million initiative, started by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 2023, aimed to improve poultry farming in Lesotho.
The project aimed to increase meat production by 40% and egg production by 30% by 2028 while reducing the country’s reliance on imported poultry products.
The Rural Self-Help Development Association announced the cancellation, leaving many poultry farmers uncertain about their future.
The project focused on helping local farmers and intended to support 23,000 to 28,000 businesses across several districts. Stakeholders, including Rural Self-Help Managing Director ‘Mampho Thulo, were shocked by the decision.
The association plans to meet with farmers to discuss the next steps, but more than 10 staff members have already lost their jobs.
Read the original article on GroundUp
