Lesotho explores dairy-board revival after foot-and-mouth disease

Mr Mochoboroane said the Italian visit had informed work on a turnaround plan for the LNDB, whose governing board has been dissolved. The ministry is considering how the organisation could help farmers gain more from milk production and support the domestic dairy industry.

Italy’s recovery of dairy production after foot-and-mouth disease was presented as an example of the need for alternative farming systems. Mr Mochoboroane said outbreaks were causing substantial losses for farmers in several countries, particularly in Africa, and that different approaches should be considered.

The minister identified mozzarella production as one possible opportunity for Basotho farmers. He said a local mozzarella industry could reduce reliance on imported milk, provide employment and raise farmers’ earnings.

The lessons came from Azienda Agricola Giancarlo D’Angelo, a family-run buffalo enterprise that also manufactures mozzarella. Farm manager Filippo D’Angelo said the business had operated as a cattle farm for roughly a century. About 30 years ago, an outbreak led to the culling and burning of its approximately 200 cattle.

After receiving seed funding, the family began again with 30 buffaloes. Mr D’Angelo said the animals were selected for their disease resilience and their capacity to produce milk. The farm now turns that milk into mozzarella, a cheese widely eaten in Italy.

He said daily operations run from 5am to 7pm and include feeding, two milking sessions and herd management. Buffalo husbandry is also part of Italy’s agricultural heritage, with the animals valued for their adaptability and resilience.