The GEF Small Grants Programme Success in Sehlabathebe: Transforming Communities and Inspiring Change

October 28, 2025

Stone cottage with green roof and solar panels, red door, beneath rocky cliffs.

The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP) has been a catalyst for remarkable transformation in the Sehlabathebe National Park Buffer Zone and surrounding communities. Through its strategic grants and targeted training programs, SGP has supported local associations in their efforts to protect the environment, nurture biodiversity, foster sustainable economic activities, and uplift livelihoods. As one community member reflected, “GEF has made a huge impact on this community. Our lives have changed so much thank you, GEF.”

At the heart of the change is a shared commitment to sustainability environmental management. Community members now create crafts from recycled materials and plant fruit trees, turning waste into opportunity and greening their environment. “We protect the environment and biodiversity, and we even make crafts out of trash,” shared a member of Tsohang Sehlabathebe Association, a grantee partner of SGP. The establishment of a Handicraft Centre is enabling artisans to showcase and sell their work, turning skills into income and pride.

Assorted woven baskets on a wooden shelf, with small cups and a light straw hat.

Building Skills and Raising Awareness

Awareness campaigns, including those held in schools and among herder communities, have cultivated deep respect for the region’s natural riches. Local leader Maruti Drakensberg Park remarked, “We wanted to teach everyone, especially the young, about the importance of protecting biodiversity and resources like broom grass. Our training sessions were a real success.” These efforts have instilled a sense of stewardship across generations.

Empowering Local Associations

Thusanang Lichaba Pony Trekking Association: The GEF SGP’s capacity development initiatives have helped transform the Sehlabathebe Pony Trekking facility into a fully operational and sustainable venture, promoting ecotourism and creating new livelihoods.
Sehlabathebe Community Conservation Forum: By harnessing renewable energy, this Forum is safeguarding both the natural and cultural heritage of Sehlabathebe, while educational campaigns on wetland and biodiversity conservation have laid the foundation for enhanced sustainable tourism.
Thaba li Maqhoa Grazing Association: Focused on the restoration and sustainable management of rangeland and wetland resources, their work is not only protecting the environment but also providing jobs for youth and women. “We preserve grazing land as a way to protect our environment and create jobs for the youth and women,” said an association representative.
Sehlabathebe Merino Breeders Association: Adoption of renewable energy and water harvesting technologies, coupled with the upgrading of the Woolshed site, has improved the production and packaging of quality wool, boosting local economies.

Innovative Community Initiatives

Ikatlehiseng Mpate Sheleng stands out for its dual approach: running environmental education, fire management and brush control campaigns to safeguard the integrity of Sehlabathebe National Park, the Lesotho component of the Transboundary Maloti Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site, and re-launching a burial society supported by GEF grants. Equipped with catering equipment, the burial society now provides services not just for their members, but also for burials, community gatherings, and weddings. This has become a source of income and a vital service for the entire community. Inspired by the UNDP Resident Representative’s advice, the Society is now exploring plans for a food spot to serve tourists, helping to fill the gap in local dining options and exploring partnerships with the other FEG SGPs awardees in the tourism sector and the Sehlabathebe National Park for synergies. “The grant has enabled us to serve our community better and think bigger now we’re looking at cooking for visitors too,” shared a society member.

Looking Forward

The collective achievements of these associations spanning conservation, sustainable tourism, rangeland and wetlands restoration, and local entrepreneurship highlight the power of partnership and grassroots innovation. GEF’s support has unlocked potential and ignited hope, ensuring that the natural and cultural heritage of Sehlabathebe is cherished for generations to come.