LESOTHO REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO RESILIENT SEED SYSTEMS

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Limpho Tau, led Lesotho’s delegation to the inaugural African Ministerial Seed Summit held in the Kingdom of Eswatini from October 5 to 7, 2026, under the theme, “Resilient Seed Systems for a Food-Secure Africa.”

The summit provided a continental platform to strengthen Africa’s seed systems as a foundation for agricultural transformation, food security and nutrition. It also sought to mobilise political commitment, investment and partnerships for country-led transformation of the seed sector.

Speaking at the summit, Minister Tau commended the AU and the Government of Eswatini for convening the summit, saying Africa could no longer separate seed security from food sovereignty, climate adaptation, economic resilience and human dignity.

He stressed the need for increased investment in agricultural research, innovation, seed production and effective regulatory systems, noting that seeds are at the beginning of the food chain.

“Resilient seed systems are fundamental to Africa’s collective efforts to eliminate hunger, malnutrition and agricultural vulnerability,” he said.

Mr. Tau said Lesotho’s engagement was guided by the leadership of His Majesty King Letsie III, the AU Champion on Nutrition and FAO Special Ambassador for Nutrition.

He called on member states, development partners and the private sector to move beyond declarations towards measurable and sustainable action.

He reaffirmed Lesotho’s commitment to regional and continental initiatives aimed at advancing food security and food sovereignty through transformed and innovative agrifood systems.

“I believe that Africa should welcome the Seed Summit because it addresses one of the fundamental foundations of food security: access to quality, affordable and climate-resilient seeds,” Minister Tau said.

He said the gathering of African governments, farmers, researchers, private companies and development partners presented an opportunity to strengthen agricultural systems, promote investment in seed production and research, and improve regional cooperation and cross-border trade.

He noted that climate change, droughts, pests and other environmental challenges were increasing pressure on African food systems.

His Excellency Moses Vilakati, Commissioner of Agriculture, Rural Development and Blue Economy, said the summit also recognised the importance of both formal commercial seed systems and farmer-managed seed systems, allowing countries to develop approaches suited to their different agricultural contexts.

“Ultimately, the value of the Seed Summit will depend on implementation, particularly whether its commitments translate into better access to affordable and resilient seeds for farmers,” Commissioner Vilakati said.

He said the summit nevertheless represented an important step towards greater African food security, agricultural resilience and strategic autonomy.