Greetings and compliments of the season. As we enter into this new year, we need to reflect on the past year and look forward with hope and passivity. A positive outlook for Lesotho in 2025 revolves around the successful attainment of three crucial goals: A thriving economy, The eradication of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), and the establishment of Informed, Effective Leadership. Each of these pillars has the potential to shape the future of the nation and improve the lives of its citizens.
A Thriving Economy
One of the most significant factors that can drive Lesotho forward in 2025 is the development of a robust and diversified economy. Lesotho has made progress in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and mining. However, a positive economic future hinges on continued investment, innovation, and inclusivity. The government of Lesotho must focus on the following aspects to ensure long-term economic growth:
- Diversification of the Economy: Lesotho’s economy has traditionally relied on a few key sectors, such as agriculture (especially subsistence farming), textiles, and mining. In 2025, there is a real opportunity for diversification. By focusing on expanding the agriculture sector with modern technologies and boosting value-added industries such as agro-processing, Lesotho can reduce its dependency on imports and create sustainable jobs for its citizens. The country’s proximity to South Africa, coupled with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), presents an opportunity for Lesotho to boost its exports of value-added products, further integrating into regional and global markets.
- Infrastructure Development: A critical driver of economic growth is infrastructure. Investments in roads, energy, water systems, and telecommunications are essential to modernize the economy. In 2025, Lesotho could see the fruition of large-scale infrastructure projects that improve access to markets, enhance business operations, and reduce the cost of doing business. Additionally, by prioritizing renewable energy investments, Lesotho can become a regional leader in sustainable energy production, capitalizing on its hydropower resources and potential for solar energy.
- Entrepreneurship and Youth Empowerment: Lesotho has a youthful population, and empowering this demographic with the skills and opportunities to engage in entrepreneurship and innovation can drive economic growth. By creating an environment that supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the government can foster job creation, reduce poverty, and stimulate local economies. In 2025, Lesotho can build upon existing youth empowerment programs and create policies that encourage entrepreneurial ventures, particularly in technology, agriculture, and creative industries.
- Tourism and Cultural Heritage: Lesotho’s breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and rich history present significant opportunities for tourism. In 2025, with strategic marketing and investment in tourism infrastructure, the country can position itself as a leading eco-tourism destination in Africa. By integrating local communities in the tourism sector, Lesotho can ensure that the economic benefits are shared widely across society.
A Gender-Based Violence-Free Society
Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) has long been a persistent issue in Lesotho, as it has in many countries across the world. However, by 2025, Lesotho should work toward becoming a society free from violence, where women, girls and men can live without fear of abuse or discrimination. To achieve this goal, comprehensive strategies must be implemented:
- Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Law Enforcement: The government must prioritize the strengthening of laws related to GBVF ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and victims receive timely justice. In 2025, Lesotho should be a model for other nations in the region by adopting a zero-tolerance approach to violence and ensuring robust enforcement of GBVF laws. Additionally, reforming the justice system to improve its responsiveness to cases of gender-based violence would be a critical step in the fight against this social ill.
- Public Awareness and Education: Achieving a GBVF-free society also requires shifting societal attitudes toward gender roles and respect for women’s rights. National awareness campaigns that educate citizens about the negative impacts of GBVF, as well as the importance of mutual respect and equality, can help change attitudes over time. In 2025, such campaigns could be delivered through media, schools, and community programs, with a focus on both men and women.
- Empowering Women and Providing Support Systems: Economic empowerment and access to education for women are essential steps in breaking the cycle of violence. In 2025, Lesotho could expand initiatives that promote women’s participation in leadership roles, decision-making, and entrepreneurship. Moreover, creating more accessible shelters, counseling services, and support networks for victims of GBVF would allow women to escape abusive situations and rebuild their lives.
- Community Involvement: Tackling GBVF is a collective effort that requires the involvement of communities, religious leaders, and local organizations. Grassroots initiatives, where communities take ownership of the problem, are crucial for changing social norms that perpetuate violence. In 2025, Lesotho can harness the power of community-led programs to address the root causes of GBVF and provide support for survivors.
Informed Leadership for National Progress
The foundation for a thriving economy and a GBVF-free society is informed, responsible leadership. In 2025, Lesotho has the opportunity to strengthen its leadership in both government and civil society, ensuring that decisions are made based on evidence, public consultation, and the long-term welfare of the people.
- Accountability and Transparency: Leadership in Lesotho must be committed to transparency, accountability, and good governance. In 2025, the country could see the full implementation of anti-corruption initiatives and mechanisms that allow citizens to actively engage in the political process. Strengthening democratic institutions and promoting political stability would create a solid foundation for sustainable development.
- Investing in Education and Capacity Building: Leaders at all levels must be informed, well-educated, and trained in the principles of good governance, human rights, and economic management. In 2025, Lesotho can establish more comprehensive leadership training programs to ensure that those in power are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to govern effectively. Similarly, investing in education at all levels will empower future leaders to take on the challenges of tomorrow.
- Inclusive Leadership: Informed leadership also means ensuring that diverse voices, especially those of women, youth, and marginalized communities, are heard in decision-making processes. By prioritizing inclusivity and representation, Lesotho can cultivate a leadership model that reflects the aspirations and needs of all its citizens. This will build trust in government and ensure that policies are more responsive to the realities of the people.
In 2025, Lesotho can look forward to a future where its economy thrives, where gender-based violence and femicide is a thing of the past, and where leadership is informed, accountable, and inclusive. This vision, while ambitious, is entirely achievable through concerted efforts across government, civil society, and the private sector. By prioritizing economic diversification, gender equality, and informed governance, Lesotho can chart a course for a brighter, more prosperous future, benefiting all of its citizens. Through collective action, the country can create a legacy of positive change and become a model of progress for the region and the world.
BY: ABUBACAR JABBIE