Agribusiness Development Officer Job Vacancy in Mafeteng, Lesotho – Agriculture Sector

Job Description

Position: Agribusiness Development Officer

Company: Lesotho Agricultural Development Corporation (LADC)

Location: Mafeteng, Lesotho

Experience: 3-5 years in agribusiness or rural development

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, or related field

Employment Type: Full-Time

Industry: Agriculture & Agribusiness

Department: Rural Development

Salary: 250,000 – 350,000 SSP per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

The Lesotho Agricultural Development Corporation (LADC) is a state-owned entity dedicated to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing food security across Lesotho. With a focus on empowering smallholder farmers and promoting agribusiness innovation, LADC plays a pivotal role in transforming Lesotho’s agricultural landscape. The organization collaborates with international partners, including the African Development Bank, to implement projects that drive rural economic growth and climate resilience.

Job Overview

This role is ideal for a dynamic professional passionate about bridging the gap between traditional farming and modern agribusiness strategies. The Agribusiness Development Officer will spearhead initiatives to improve crop yields, optimize supply chain logistics, and foster partnerships with local cooperatives. The position is based in Mafeteng, a key agricultural hub in Lesotho, and offers opportunities to contribute to national food security goals while working in diverse rural environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement agribusiness development programs tailored to smallholder farmers.
• Conduct market research to identify opportunities for value addition in agricultural products.
• Coordinate training sessions on sustainable farming techniques and business planning.
• Collaborate with government agencies and NGOs to secure funding for rural infrastructure projects.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of agribusiness initiatives on local communities.

Required Skills

• Expertise in agricultural project management and stakeholder engagement.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, GIS) for agricultural planning.
• Strong negotiation skills to facilitate partnerships with farmers and suppliers.
• Fluency in Sesotho and English.
• Ability to work independently in remote rural areas.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Rural Development, or a related discipline. A Master’s degree is a distinct advantage.

Experience

3-5 years of experience in agribusiness development, rural project management, or agricultural extension services. Prior experience in Lesotho’s agricultural sector is preferred.

Salary

250,000 – 350,000 SSP per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
• Transportation allowance for fieldwork in rural areas.
• Annual professional development stipend (up to 50,000 SSP).
• Accommodation provided in Mafeteng during employment.

Training

• On-the-job training in Lesotho’s agribusiness policies and regulations.
• Workshops on climate-smart agriculture and digital farming tools.
• Leadership development programs for rural project management.

Working Environment

The role involves a mix of office-based planning and extensive fieldwork in rural farming communities. Candidates must be adaptable to variable weather conditions and willing to travel frequently within Lesotho’s mountainous terrain.

Application Process

Submit your CV and a cover letter to the official job portal at https://lesothojobsearch.com. Applications must include a detailed project proposal addressing how you would improve maize production in Mafeteng. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews by 15 July 2026.

Equal Opportunity Statement

LADC is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities. All selections will be made without regard to race, religion, or political affiliation.