On December 17, the handover ceremony for the China-aided Maseru Agricultural Product Storage, Logistics and Trading Center in Lesotho, constructed by Jiangsu Zhenhuai Construction Group Co., Ltd., was grandly held at the project site in Ha Foso. Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho Yang Xiaokun, Lesotho Prime Minister Matekane, Minister of Agriculture Mofosi, and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Mpjoane jointly cut the ribbon and delivered speeches. More than 400 guests attended the ceremony, including over 20 Lesotho cabinet ministers, members of both houses of parliament, officials at various levels, and media representatives. The event was broadcast live by Lesotho National Television and Radio.

   

The Maseru Agricultural Product Storage, Logistics and Trading Center is an important assistance project provided by the Chinese government to Lesotho. With a total floor area of approximately 8,000 square meters, it includes functional sections such as large-scale storage areas, logistics distribution zones, trading halls, and supporting administrative facilities. Designed with modern environmental principles, the center offers both ambient and low-temperature storage capabilities, effectively preserving grains, vegetables, fruits, and other agricultural products. Its estimated annual storage turnover exceeds 10,000 tons, directly serving thousands of local farmers and significantly enhancing Lesotho’s agricultural storage, logistics, and market regulation capacity.

      Faced with multiple challenges including complex overseas construction conditions, long-distance material coordination, and pandemic-related impacts, the Zhenhuai Group project team demonstrated scientific planning and meticulous execution from the start. They actively promoted technical integration and localized collaboration, overcoming difficulties such as weak local infrastructure and rainy-season construction constraints. Through optimized scheduling, stringent quality control, and localized employment management, the team ensured the project progressed safely, with high quality and efficiency. The project was completed within the planned timeline, with all functional indicators meeting or exceeding design requirements, reflecting the professionalism and commitment of a Chinese enterprise.

      In his speech, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Mpjoane stated that the project symbolizes hope, resilience, and flexibility for the farmers and families of the Kingdom of Lesotho, and represents a shared vision for national prosperity, stability, and food security. He emphasized that the project is a concrete example of South-South cooperation and reflects the practical, results-oriented approach of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which focuses on tangibly improving people’s lives. Prime Minister Matekane noted that agriculture is the backbone of Lesotho’s economy and the lifeline of rural communities. For years, farmers have suffered significant losses due to inadequate storage facilities. The completion of this center will enable them to safely store grains and seeds, enhance their bargaining power in the market, and ensure stable food supply throughout the year. On behalf of the people of Lesotho, he expressed sincere gratitude to the Chinese government and people, and highly commended Zhenhuai Group for its hard work and dedication.

      The successful handover of the Maseru Agricultural Product Storage, Logistics and Trading Center not only stands as another testament to the friendship between China and Lesotho, but also lays a solid foundation for deepening agricultural cooperation between the two countries and promoting food security and rural economic development in Lesotho. With its outstanding engineering capabilities, Zhenhuai Group has once again demonstrated the responsibility, strength, and commitment of Chinese enterprises on the international stage.