How a bakery changed the lives of Basotho in Matlameng from poverty to self sufficiency

By: Reentseng Phephetho, Communications and Digital Officer, Lesotho

In the remote corners of Matlameng Area Programme, situated in the Leribe district, the community of Ha-Moshoeshoe faced relentless poverty. For years, families like that of Matieho Thehe found themselves trapped in an unending cycle of unemployment and financial instability. "I could only dream of providing a better life for my children," Matieho recalls. "But I couldn't afford basic needs like food, clothes, and my children’s school supplies".  

Financial hardship was a daily battle, with many families sinking deeper into debt, often losing their possessions to creditors. The community's aspiration for a better life was overshadowed by the harsh reality of their circumstances, hindering the growth and development of their children.

A Ray of Hope

In 2013, World Vision Lesotho’s Livelihoods & Resilience Programme conducted a vulnerability assessment, revealing the community’s dire economic situation and pressing need for sustainable livelihood solutions. In light of the assessment results, World Vision encouraged the community to unite for their economic development and seek innovative ways to improve their economic prospects. This led to the formation of a determined group of (10) individuals, united in their goal to improve the community’s economic situation. Initially, they tried a catering business, but it didn’t generate enough income to make a meaningful difference in their lives. So, they started the "Raohang Sechaba Bakery," meaning “Rise up Community” marking the start of a new chapter for Matlameng and their journey towards realizing their dreams.

Inspired by their determination, World Vision Lesotho stepped in to support the group’s efforts to empower themselves by providing a wooden stove for baking. However, the journey was far from easy. Although World Vision provided the wooden stove, the group faced challenges due to a lack of proper training and sufficient workspace, which hindered their ability to make the business profitable making only about 60 maloti (Lesotho currency) a day. These initial setbacks threatened to crush their spirits, but their commitment to changing their lives and helping the most vulnerable in their village kept them going.

"I believed that when my life changes, the lives of the communities in Matlameng will change too," -  Mamajara Letsie, the group’s chairperson.

Turning Point

In August 2022, World Vision Lesotho stepped in to help the group overcome these challenges by constructing a bakery facility.  The fenced, two-roomed building provided a secure and spacious environment for their operations. Additionally, in November 2022, World Vision fitted the bakery with essential tools, including an electric stove, dough-mixing machines, bread and cake-making equipment. Alongside this, the group received comprehensive training in using this new equipment to bake buns and cakes.

Equipped with newfound skills and better equipment, the bakery began to thrive, sales increased to at least 300 maloti a day and over 6,000 maloti a month. Their market expanded beyond their village reaching  neighbouring villages and even extending to the district.

"My children have daily food now. I can afford their school needs. Our lives have truly changed," - a jubilant Matieho Thethe.

The bakery's success brought profound changes in the community. The group members, once idle and despondent, are now busy and productive, contributing to their families’ economic security. Some members even ventured into other businesses and small investments for their children. With her share of the profits from the bakery, Matieho started a new business selling herbal medications, further securing her family's financial stability.

As part of their plan for the future, the group plans to involve young people to work in the bakery to pass on their skills and knowledge, ensuring the bakery’s legacy and continued growth. "I never thought Matlameng would be where it is now. We have made great progress, all thanks to this bakery group," remarked the village chief, Mosuoane Thethe.

From the depths of poverty, the people of Matlameng rose, united by a shared vision and relentless determination. The Raohang Sechaba Bakery is more than a business; it's a testament to their resilience and hope. Through the support of World Vision Lesotho and their own hard work, they transformed their lives and their community, ensuring a brighter future for their children.