Basotho Botanics - Semonkong, Lesotho
8th - 22nd November 2008
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This project is very special, from its location in the heart of Lesotho's mountains, to the amazing and inspiring people we'll meet and work with.
Home to Southern Africa's largest waterfall (and record breaking abseil), Semonkong is a natural paradise which experiences surprisingly little tourism. Dynamic local people have set out to improve the lives and livelihoods of the people in this remote area and do something to conserve Semonkong's rich biodiversity. We'll be helping out with the development of a new native plant nursery and botanical garden on a real cutting-edge development project.
Who we're working with
The Katleho 'Moho Association is a community based group working in the Semonkong region. Established 2001 and registered as a non profit association their aim is to raise quality of life for local people by developing community led solutions to rural poverty and environmental degradation in the area.
Project activities have been concerned with food and seed security and with sanitation.
Community research undertaken by Katleho 'Moho identified a need to empower young adults. As a response, local youth were invited to join together and to agree on projects. Through this process, sustainable tourism and the environment were identified as priorities and BTCV is helping with the process of developing these.
The group is dynamic and hard-working and their success is testament to their enthusiasm and dedication. Working alongside then is an inspiration in itself.
Where we're working
Lesotho (pronounced Le-soo-too) is a small independent nation, in the middle of Southern Africa. Nicknamed the ‘Kingdom in the Sky’ it lies entirely above 1000m and boasts some spectacularly rugged and remote landscapes. With little tourism development it is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Lesotho also offers a wonderful opportunity to experience first hand a very traditional and welcoming African culture. This is particularly true in rural areas, such as Semonkong, where the distinctive and colourful Basotho traditions are still very much alive.
Semonkong, meaning ‘Place of Smoke’, because of the haze that rises from its waterfall, lies 75 miles SE of the capital Maseru, 2500m above sea level. Semonkong is a small, dusty town with a distinctly ‘wild west’ feel about it. You will often pass a line of Basotho ponies ‘parked’ outside the bar or the supermarket!
What we'll be doing
Following three years of working with the Katleho 'Moho Association, to construct and maintain a
reliable trail to the bottom of the waterfall, our work together is moving on to a new stage.
A plant nursery and botanic garden are being developed and this year we'll be there in time to help out with the initial planting and preparation. This is not to be confused with Kew! The nursery is proposed as a critical resource providing tree and shrub species for wood-fuel and soil stabilisation, fruit and vegetable species to improve nutrition, and conserve and develop supplies of wild medicinal plants. A centrepiece in Katleho 'Moho's integrated environmental and development activities.
With the assistance of BTCV's international development department, the Katleho 'Moho Association has been able to secure further external funding of nearly £5000 for the nursery and this holiday project has been designed to be integrated into the longer-term plans.
Benefits of our work
The nursery is a centrepiece of Katleho 'Moho's work. In addition to the multiple environmental, social and health benefits, it has long-term sustainability built in with the opportunity to grow and market medicinal and high value plants - increasing local income and employment, and reducing the exploitation of wild stocks.
Through their participation in local development and the project youth are developing a greater understanding and appreciation of their environment and the need to protect this valuable resource. The project also draws on indigenous knowledge of local biodiversity (e.g. threatened species, medicinal uses etc).
BTCV has worked very closely with all sectors of the community as these projects have developed. Our presence has already achieved more than just the practical activities but has acted as a catalyst for local and even national action following from our findings and our interest. This close relationship between BTCV and the community ensures that interaction between volunteers and community members is certain, and there will be opportunities to experience and take part in community meetings and gatherings. You'll get a unique insight into the workings of local development and the political factors that influence it.
Where we'll be staying
Semonkong Lodge is an attractive and cosy cluster of thatched 'rondeval' huts nestled on a river bank at the edge of Semonkong town. We have two large huts with shared bathroom facilities (including hot showers). If you prefer you can stay in private en-suite room but at additional cost (contact BTCV customer services to arrange).
We'll either eat at the lodge, or in local 'restaurants'. Breakfast is self-service, and lunch is traditional Basotho fare prepared by local villagers.
The lodge also has a licensed bar with pool table.
What else is there
We always seem to be busy in Semonkong, with some event or other to distract us. A tour of the area will be organised, with trips to outlying villages to give us a taste of real rural Basotho life, food,
music and culture.
Some activities can be arranged through Semonkong Lodge (at additional cost) including guided pony treks and walking tours and even the world record breaking 204m abseil down the Maletsunyane gorge if you’re brave enough!
