Matšeng Biosphere Reserve Project Consultancy Services

The Kingdom of Lesotho, in collaboration with the UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB) programme designated the Mats’eng Biosphere Reserve in 2021. This is in line with the country’s Medium-Term Implementation Strategy for the National Vision 2030, and the National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP) 2018-2023 which provides clear indications of government’s commitment to the protection of the nation’s biodiversity assets, natural and cultural heritage, and its desire to fully utilise such resources through conservation, education, research and tourism to advance socio-economic development.

As part of its strategic commitment to sustainable development and conservation, the Government of Lesotho developed the Mats’eng Biosphere Reserve Integrated Management Plan (2021–2030), driven by a vision to:
“a unique and well protected Biosphere Reserve with an intertwined symbiotic relationship between humans and nature. A place where the stewardship of biodiversity and culture is supported and promoted, and where research, education, and learning are encouraged, where people use natural resources wisely, through environmental, heritage, and tourism community-based projects for sustainable livelihoods while maintaining the ecological integrity of the area, for present and future generations.”

Objectives of the Consultancy
The consultancy has two primary, interconnected objectives, both focused on the initial implementation of the Matšeng Biosphere Reserve Integrated Management Plan. These objectives are:

(1) raising awareness among key stakeholders—including communities, government officials, and NGOs—about the Biosphere Reserve and its Integrated Management Plan;

and

(2) implementing the Greening School Model, based on the UNESCO Green School Quality Standard, in three BR schools. This model will concentrate on enhancing the greening of four key areas: school governance, facilities and operations, teaching and learning, and community engagement.