Mohale's Hoek, June 03 — Lesotho Post Bank's Relationship Manager Mr. Lebona Leokaoke says around July the bank through the Agricultural Financing Unit, will hand over about 83 Tractors to qualifying farmers who previously forwarded their applications.

Mr. Leokaoke stated this during Tractor Finance Promotion meeting held for farmers with the purpose of supporting them to access affordable tractor financing solutions, by pointing out that some farmers are of the view that applications are politically motivated.

He noted that the statement is far from the truth, as the initiative is for all eligible farmers, as well as those who have just started, as long as they provide proof that they will able to payback the bank.

He further indicated that for farmers to qualify for financial assistance they need to provide proof of land ownership, and a letter from an Extension Officer, adding the initiative also caters for those who are employed, as long as they have proof of income, and that assistance is for those in crop and grain production.

One farmer, Lethusang Kompi who pointed out that he bought 2 tractors through the initiative urged his colleagues to buy new ones because of a longer life span, noting he has never encountered any mechanical challenges with both tractors, and this year he is planning to buy new ones.

On the other hand, Teboho Khati from Lesotho Flour Mills who presented on services offered by the company, applauded farmers for their perseverance even during unfavourable weather conditions, adding he and his friends once tried to get into farming, but dismally failed due to lack of patience.

In an interview with the Agency Makhaleng Resource Centre, Extension Officer Motloheloa Motlohi, expressed his gratitude to about twenty farmers who showed up, noting most of them are always at his office seeking explanations on how to apply for financial assistance, and about the requirements.

Image by the Reporter