Quthing, June 08 — World Vision Lesotho is set to roll out the Qomoqomong Area Development Programme, a long-term initiative aimed at improving the well-being and protection of vulnerable children while addressing poverty-related challenges in the area.

Presenting the project overview during a meeting of district heads of departments, World Vision Lesotho Integrated Child Protection Manager, Mr. Motlatsi Taaka, said the programme will run for between 10 and 15 years and focus on improving outcomes in child protection, health, education, participation and household economic stability.

Mr. Taaka said vulnerability assessments identified Quthing as one of the priority districts due to high levels of child stunting and frequent drought conditions that continue to affect livelihoods.

He explained that the programme will focus on nutrition and health interventions aimed at reducing malnutrition among children under the age of five through improved dietary diversity and vaccination campaigns.

The programme will also address child protection issues by tackling harmful cultural practices, preventing child abuse and reducing early marriages.

Mr. Taaka said support for education will include promoting literacy and numeracy among children aged between six and 11 years, as well as providing life skills training for adolescents.

He added that livelihoods and resilience activities will assist households with skills development and income-generating opportunities to help break the cycle of poverty and strengthen their ability to cope with climate-related shocks.

According to Mr. Taaka, the programme will be implemented in line with government policies and will involve collaboration with government ministries, non-governmental organisations, community leaders and civil society organisations to ensure sustainability and inclusive participation.

He said registration will begin with children under five years for health and nutrition interventions, followed by school-going children and adolescents who will participate in education and life skills programmes.

Mr. Taaka further noted that quality education, economic empowerment and child participation advocacy will form part of the programme's activities, while partnerships with stakeholders, including faith-based organisations, will play a key role in ensuring long-term success.

Meanwhile, District Police Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner of Police Seabata Tutuoane, welcomed the initiative, saying it would contribute to crime prevention within communities.

He said protecting children from abuse, child labour and ensuring access to education would help reduce the risk of crime and other social challenges.

The programme's thematic priorities include child protection and safeguarding through the creation of safe environments free from violence and exploitation, as well as improving health, nutrition and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services.

By aligning with national development priorities and strengthening community structures, the Qomoqomong Area Development Programme aims to deliver sustainable change beyond the lifespan of the project.
The programme is expected to commence in October 2027.

The last programme of a similar nature implemented by World Vision Lesotho in Quthing was the Mokotjomela Area Programme, which was phased out in September last year.

Image by World Vision Congo