The annual National Agricultural Show plays a vital role in improving agricultural competitiveness and productivity amongst farmers throughout the country.

The Assistant Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ramootsi Lehata said this when officially opening the 2008 Agricultural Show at Ha Foso on Wednesday.

He challenged farmers to ensure that products they exhibit at the show have been produced from their respective gardens to ensure a sustainable household food security.

Mr. Lehata urged farmers to use the prevailing moisture and plant winter crops such as wheat and peas for increased crops production all year round.

'If farmers could plant crops as recommended, that could prevent the country from receiving food donations from other countries,' he said.

Mr. Lehata commended farmers participating at the show, encouraging them to continue for increased food production in the country.

On the other hand, the Assistant Minister urged livestock farmers to consider vaccination of their livestock as vital for the protection of such animals against diseases and prevention of outbreaks like black quarter and anthrax, which he said occurred in the districts of Maseru and Mafeteng earlier this year.

The Chairperson of the national agricultural show committee, Mr. Mphutlane Kolehile appealed to the government to upgrade the show grounds for smooth operation.

He commended the government for the assistance given to farmers such as subsidy of farming inputs, however believed that farmers still face a number of challenges, which need to be addressed so to combat hunger and poverty in the country.

This year's show started on Monday this week and ends on Saturday with sale of agricultural products.

Meanwhile, Mr. Lehata toured different stalls where a variety of agricultural crops ranging from vegetables and cereals, food stuffs as well as handicrafts are exhibited.

Source: LENA 04/06/2008