The Kingdom of Lesotho is currently facing urgent challenges and opportunities in its natural resource capital. The Kingdom’s unique geography and climatic conditions make it particularly susceptible to environmental issues such as land cover degradation, soil erosion, water scarcity, and vulnerability to climate shocks. Therefore, effective natural resource governance and climate-resilient practices are not just important but crucial for preventing land degradation and ensuring sustainable resource use and availability for present and future generations.

Over the years, the government of Lesotho has made significant efforts to optimise the sustainable exploration of its natural resource base. Yet, challenges persist due to a fragmented institutional and policy framework, overlapping Ministry-led agendas, the tragedy of the common scenario on natural resource utilisation and management, and insufficient implementation capacity. It is vital to build an adequate knowledge base and mutual understanding of why scaling up and enhancing natural resource governance and management need to be merged and tackled simultaneously.

In a dedicated effort to understand and incorporate the public's viewpoint on the governance of natural resources, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, along with the ROLL and other relevant stakeholders, has organised a National Dialogue scheduled to take place on August 7 and 8 this year. This event is intended to become an annual gathering, with the theme for this year focusing on the effective utilisation of nature's resources for sustainable development. As a preparatory step, the Ministry actively engages in nationwide public consultations, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. The Ministry and its collaborators have already conducted public gatherings in the following districts: 

Maseru, Mahloenyeng, 

Butha Buthe; Ha Lebesa,

 Leribe; Ha Mahlehle, Sekoaing and Ha Letsie, 

Berea; ‘Makhoroana and Sebitia, 

Quthing; Ha Tlhaku and Ha Lazaro and 

Qacha’s Nek; Milikane and Makhoareng Ha Apile. 

The upcoming public gatherings will take place at Mokhotlong; Khubelu, Thaba Tseka; Sehonghong and Mantsonyane, Mohale’s Hoek; Silioe and Mafeteng; Thabana Morena. The Ministry is reaching out to the communities in these villages to encourage active participation and open dialogue to ensure the success of public gatherings. The Ministry seeks to create an environment where individuals can freely contribute their opinions without any form of bias or fear.

# Do you believe that the current laws governing natural resources and biodiversity in Lesotho are still relevant and effective in today's context? 

# In your opinion, which specific laws and regulations should be implemented to contribute to the restoration and preservation of Lesotho's natural beauty?

We value your opinion and would like to hear your thoughts. 

#thefutureisinourhands#united4land #sustainableliving #generationrestoration