Lesotho to Deploy Lesotho solar freezers in 2026
A significant step towards enhancing food security and supporting rural communities in Lesotho is on the horizon. A new procurement initiative by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations indicates that solar-powered freezers are set to be deployed in the region, with a tender process scheduled for early 2026. This move signals a major investment in sustainable technology to address critical food storage challenges.
FAO Spearheads Procurement Initiative for Lesotho solar freezers
The initiative has come to light through a public notice on the United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM). The FAO has issued an Invitation to Bid, cataloged as ITB/002/2026, for the “Procurement of Solar Powered Freezers set 350L.” This tender is a clear indication of the FAO’s commitment to leveraging renewable energy for agricultural development.
According to the procurement notice, the deadline for bids is February 8, 2026. This opportunity, listed as relevant to business and development in Lesotho, points to the country being a key beneficiary of the resulting deployment. The project aligns with the FAO’s broader mission to achieve food security for all and support the livelihoods of small-scale farmers, who often face significant challenges with post-harvest losses due to a lack of reliable cold storage.
The Impact of Lesotho solar freezers Cold Storage
The introduction of solar-powered freezers can be a game-changer for communities in Lesotho, particularly in areas with limited or no access to a stable electricity grid. By harnessing the power of the sun, these units provide a reliable and cost-effective solution for preserving perishable goods.
Potential benefits for Lesotho include:
- Reduced Food Waste: Farmers and smallholders can store their produce, meat, and dairy products for longer periods, drastically cutting down on spoilage and increasing the amount of food available for consumption and sale.
- Enhanced Economic Opportunities: With access to cold storage, producers can sell their goods when market prices are more favorable, rather than being forced to sell immediately after harvest. This can lead to increased income and greater economic stability for rural families.
- Improved Nutrition and Health: Reliable food preservation ensures that communities have access to a more consistent and diverse supply of nutritious food throughout the year, not just during harvest seasons.
- Strengthened Climate Resilience: As a decentralized and renewable energy solution, solar freezers are not dependent on fragile national grids that can be affected by extreme weather events, making the food supply chain more resilient.
This initiative represents a practical and forward-thinking approach to rural development. By equipping communities with the tools they need to preserve their harvests, the FAO is helping to build a more sustainable and food-secure future for Lesotho. As the 2026 procurement process moves forward, this project will be a key development to watch in the effort to integrate sustainable technology into global food systems.
