CALL FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI)
Engagement of Technology Firms to Deliver AI‑Enabled Solutions for Agro‑Processing Farmers
PROGRAMME BACKGROUND
The Lesotho Economic Growth, Job Creation and EPA Implementation Support Programme, also known as Regional Value Chain Lesotho (RVCL), is a joint action co‑financed by the European Union (EU) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The programme is implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, jointly with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Business Development (MTIBD), as part of the BMZ project Cooperation for Enhancement of SADC Regional Economic Integration (CESARE III).
The overall objective of the programme is to foster inclusive economic development and sustainable regional and international trade in Lesotho, with a specific focus on selected value chains.
OBJECTIVE OF THE INTERVENTION
The programme seeks to enhance the capacity of agro‑processors and farmers to understand, adopt, and effectively apply modern technologies in order to improve productivity, efficiency, quality standards, and market access.
To achieve this, Regional Value Chain Lesotho (RVCL) invites Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from qualified local technology companies specializing in artificial intelligence (AI), smart devices, and digital innovation to support the transformation of agro‑processing and farming systems in Lesotho.
The intervention aims to bridge the gap between advanced technology and on‑the‑ground agricultural practices, with strong emphasis on usability, scalability, and sustainability.
SCOPE OF ENGAGEMENT
Selected technology firms will be expected to:
- Design, adapt, and implement AI‑enabled tools and solutions
- Ensure solutions are accessible, practical, and locally relevant
- Support technology adoption among agro‑processors and farmers
- Contribute to sustainable and scalable digital innovation within the sector
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Interested companies must demonstrate the following:
- Proven expertise in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, or smart device solutions
- Demonstrated experience applying AI in agriculture, agro‑processing, or rural development, specifically within the Lesotho context
- Track record of implementing technology solutions with farmers, MSMEs, or cooperatives
- Experience in capacity building, training, and technology adoption support
- Ability to deliver user‑friendly, context‑appropriate, and scalable solutions
Only businesses that are legally registered and operating in Lesotho are eligible to apply.
HOW TO SUBMIT AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
Interested businesses may submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) using the following online link:
🔗 https://ee-eu.kobotoolbox.org/x/nTpyTsVW
SUBMISSION DEADLINE
The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interest is:
Monday, 11 May 2026