Africa’s Gift: Growing a Sustainable Future in Malealea

Source: Africa’s Gift Annual Report 2025–2026.

One of the year’s most significant highlights was the visit of His Majesty King Letsie III to Malealea in January 2026. As an Ambassador for Nutrition across the African Union, the King took a keen interest in the work being undertaken to improve food production, nutrition and sustainable farming. His visit showcased the community’s Eco Cook Bag project and Teaching Farm, demonstrating how practical, locally driven solutions can make a lasting difference.

Expanding the Eco Cook Bag Project
The Eco Cook Bag initiative reached an exciting new milestone, with funding from major sponsor Kingsley Napley enabling the start of production of 1,000 bags. Made by local women using locally sourced materials, the bags allow food to continue cooking through retained heat, helping families save fuel, water and time while supporting improved nutrition.

The expansion will provide more families with access to the bags, create employment for local women and offer opportunities for local men involved in harvesting and processing the agave fibre used as filling. Malealea Lodge has also offered indoor space for production, allowing the team to continue working in all weather conditions.

Growing the Teaching Farm
The Malealea Teaching Farm continues to develop as an example of regenerative agriculture and sustainable food production. Under new farm management, more land is being cultivated, while innovative techniques are helping to improve soil health, conserve water and protect crops.

These methods include using biochar made from invasive trees, applying manure to enrich the soil, planting complementary crops together, and managing water through drip irrigation and contour swales. Together, these practices help retain moisture, reduce soil erosion and improve resilience during dry periods.

The farm is also strengthening its relationship with the Malealea Development Trust (MDT), with plans to share knowledge with local farmers and schools. By demonstrating practical, sustainable farming methods, the project aims to help the community improve crop yields and reduce the risks associated with drought.

Supporting Local Schools and Children
Education remains an important part of Africa’s Gift’s work. During the year, the charity funded essential repairs at a local primary school, including a new roof, floor repairs and a replacement door, allowing the school to address problems that had forced it to close during heavy rain.

Local schoolchildren also gained hands-on experience at the Teaching Farm, learning how to plant and care for potatoes grown in enriched soil. This practical education complements school mini-farms and helps introduce the next generation to sustainable agricultural techniques.

Masemouse Reservoir Project

The reservoir, built and managed by Africa’s Gift, continues to develop under strong local leadership. Native fish species have been introduced, and the juvenile fish are being allowed to grow and establish a sustainable population before becoming available for local sale and consumption. The water flowing out of the reservoir is also being used to irrigate crops, including tomatoes and peppers, helping to support local food production.

Building Stronger Communities
Beyond Malealea, Africa’s Gift continues to support community initiatives elsewhere in Africa. Its work includes Marian’s Eden in Uganda, where traditional medicinal plants are being cultivated alongside coffee, 

These projects reflect the charity’s broader commitment to improving livelihoods, protecting natural resources and helping communities develop sustainable sources of food and income.

Looking Ahead
With new sponsorship from Kingsley Napley and recognition as a 1% for the Planet Environmental Partner, Africa’s Gift is looking to build on this year’s achievements.

Its priorities for 2026–2027 include distributing 1,000 Eco Cook Bags, expanding production into other districts of Lesotho, further developing the Teaching Farm, and promoting sustainable farming practices that help protect crops against drought.

A Shared Commitment to Malealea
The progress highlighted in this annual report demonstrates what can be achieved when local communities, dedicated organisations, sponsors and supporters work together towards a common goal.

At Malealea, these initiatives are helping to create employment, strengthen food security, share valuable agricultural knowledge and protect the environment for future generations.

Malealea Lodge is proud to support this important work, including by providing space for Eco Cook Bag production. We are delighted to see these community-led initiatives growing and making a tangible difference in the lives of local people.

We extend our thanks to Africa’s Gift, the Malealea Development Trust, the local teams, volunteers, donors and sponsors whose commitment continues to support a more sustainable future for Malealea and beyond.

Read more about the work of Africa's Gift