Twenty-two (22) extension officers from Thabang & Libibing Resource Centers in the Mokhotlong district, participated in a two-day workshop on Environmental and Social Safeguards Management Framework (ESMF) and Grievance Redress Mechanisms (GRM) from the 4th to 5th May 2022. The purpose of the workshop was to train extension officers on how to administer grievances emanating from the implementation of the APPSA project, particularly on research and construction activities. Extension officers play a pivotal role in ensuring that technologies generated by scientists reach a greater number of farmers. They work closely with farmers, hence stand a better chance to note their grievances regarding APPSA activities.
APPSA-Lesotho, amongst its many activities, is supporting upgrading of Research infrastructure, including construction and rehabilitation of buildings in Maseru, Mohale’s Hoek, Leribe and Mokhotlong Agricultural Research Stations. APPSA follow World Bank safeguards policies that aim to avoid, mitigate, or minimize adverse environmental and social impacts of projects. The project is guided by the two main regulatory and legal frameworks namely, Environmental Act of 2008 and World Bank Environmental & Social Safeguards Policies. The latter augments the Environmental Act of 2008 where there is short fall in Laws.
Extension officers were introduced to the GRM system through which queries, or concerns can be lodged. The project team is then liable to respond within stipulated time frames. The significance of the environmental and social assessment in the project is to inform decision making, improve project design and implementation, to ensure avoidance and mitigation of adverse environmental and social risks and impacts especially those that may affect disadvantaged and vulnerable individuals and groups.
The GRM ensures that the project is responsive to the needs of beneficiaries, addresses and resolves their grievances. It serves as a conduit for soliciting inquiries, inviting suggestions, and increasing community participation by collecting information that can be used to improve operational performance and enhance the project’s legitimacy among stakeholders.
District Extension Officer (DEO) in Mokhotlong, Mr Polao Tlali, highlighted the significance of the workshop on the overall extension undertakings in the district. Mr Tlali asserted that the knowledge attained from workshop will enable extension officers to assist APPSA with ease in attaining its objectives. Proper management of grievances improves stakeholder participation and successful completion of project objectives.
Source: Department of Agricultural Research (DAR)
