Lesotho’s Outdated Laws Fail to Protect Threatened Plant Species

Maximum fine of R200 hasn’t been updated since 1967

• An unregulated trade in pelargonium, a protected species, is causing environmental destruction across Lesotho.
• Five people were recently found guilty of illegally dealing in pelargonium. They were fined M200 (equivalent to R200).
• In a scathing judgment, magistrate Thabang Tapole found serious flaws in the government’s permitting system and said laws should be updated to effectively deter people from breaking environmental laws.
• He also…