By Thoboloko Ntšonyane
MASERU- The Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt Hon Tlohang Sekhamane has spotlighted the unemployment crisis in Lesotho to the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres who was an esteemed guest in Parliament to address the joint sitting of the two houses last week.
Highlighting Lesotho’s small population, the Speaker emphasised that fostering partnerships with the UN could create transformative opportunities for the country.
Sekhamane told the Secretary-General that Lesotho could partner with the UN in “tackling this worldwide problem elsewhere in the world”.
If this could be realised, the Speaker pointed out that Lesotho would no longer be amongst those countries that are targeted for the UN assistance in terms of reducing unemployment.
He continued: “Lesotho will be a partner and an example that unemployment can be removed from the face of the earth.”
In 2019, Lesotho’s unemployment rate was reported at 22.5% by the Bureau of Statistics.
Youth unemployment is particularly concerning, with a rate of 29.1% among those aged 15-35.
This highlights labour market challenges and also a smaller private sector space in Lesotho which is unable to absorb as many graduates especially youth which forms the bigger part of the economically active population.
Guterres pointed out that by harnessing the energy, innovation, and aspirations of the world’s youngest population, nations can unlock immense potential.
He underscored the importance of transforming the global economic system to create conditions that ensure job opportunities for young people, who represent the future wealth of their countries.
“Two-thirds of your population is under the age of 30; that it is an enormous potential but it needs to be properly invested, and for that, international support is necessary,” he said.
He also made a call to action for the efforts to address the health challenges with renewed determination particularly HIV/AIDS, which continues to affect many families in Lesotho and across the continent.
The UN Chief added: “By pursuing disability inclusion; And by advancing gender equality.
No society can thrive while half its population is held back. Eliminating gender-based violence and child marriages, closing the education gap and offering equal opportunities are not just moral imperatives – they are essential for sustainable development in all countries in the continent and in the world.
“Gender equality is fundamentally a question of power – and a means of redefining and transforming power that will yield benefits for all.
We need bold, systemic change, including through affirmative measures such as quotas, to ensure women have a voice and can meaningfully participate in decision-making.”
He reiterated the UN’s partnership in the journey toward sustainable and inclusive development.
Guterres told the MPs that their “role transcends these chambers. You represent the hopes and aspirations of all Basotho people. Through your legislative power, you can shape a prosperous and equitable future; Invest in clean energy and climate resilience; Advance economic transformation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals; Champion good governance, transparency and accountability;
“And leave no one behind – including women and girls, young people, and persons with disabilities.
Your parliamentary diplomacy serves as a bridge, connecting Lesotho’s aspirations with regional and global partnerships. Your history as a nation is one of courage and perseverance.
“Your rich natural resources, your location at the heart of southern Africa and your commitment to sustainable development put you in a unique position. This is your moment to show the world that from the challenges of today, a new era of hope and equality can be born.”