SOLIDARMED Baseline Study Assignment
Development Solutions (Pty) Ltd in 2022 conducted a comprehensive market study on behalf of SOLIDARMED Lesotho under the COMBaCaL (Community-Based Chronic Disease Care Lesotho) programme to design sustainable social enterprise models for Chronic Care Workers (CCWs) in Mokhotlong and Butha-Buthe districts. The study combined qualitative and quantitative approaches, including key informant interviews, focus group discussions, transect walks, desk reviews, and case studies of both successful and failed income-generating initiatives within Lesotho and across Africa. The objective was to identify simple, scalable, cost-effective and community-relevant models that would enable CCWs to remain self-sustaining beyond the project lifecycle.
The findings led to the development of five viable social enterprise models: dairy production with lucerne fodder, wool and mohair production (Merino sheep and Angora goats), airtime and mobile money services, tent and chair rental services, and poultry production (layers and broilers). The report further draws lessons from regional best practices on CHW motivation and sustainability, emphasizing leadership integrity, community ownership, financial transparency, and alignment between social mission and enterprise activity as critical success factors for long-term impact.
Assignment 2: Evaluation of the ComBaCal Project – Solidarmed Lesotho
Development solution undertook another assignment by SOLIDARMED in August 2025 – Jan 2026 to Evaluate the ComBaCal Project supported by SOLIDAREMED .
The Micro-Enterprise Evaluation assessed the performance, sustainability, and socio-economic impact of supported small businesses established to improve household resilience and income security among vulnerable communities. Using a mixed-methods approach combining beneficiary interviews, financial performance reviews, field observations, and stakeholder consultations, the evaluation examined business viability, profitability trends, market access, operational challenges, and the effectiveness of capacity-building support. The assessment focused on identifying measurable improvements in income levels, savings behavior, asset accumulation, and overall livelihood stability.
Findings indicate that while many beneficiaries experienced increased income diversification and improved financial management skills, enterprises faced constraints such as limited working capital, market fluctuations, and supply chain disruptions. The report emphasizes the importance of ongoing mentorship, strengthened market linkages, improved financial literacy, and structured monitoring systems to enhance sustainability. Strategic recommendations are provided to scale viable enterprises, strengthen resilience, and ensure long-term socio-economic impact beyond initial project support.
