Around the world
Lesotho’s Textile Sector Reels Despite Tariff Reprieve from U.S.
Maseru – Lesotho’s largest private sector employer, the textile industry, continues to face sharp declines in orders and jobs despite the recent decision by the United States to impose a reduced tariff of 15% instead of the previously threatened 50%.
According to Reuters, the economic damage had already taken root before the revised tariff was announced. Several factories had suspended operations and laid off workers due to cancelled orders. The sector, which exports heavily to the U.S. under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), relies on policy certainty to attract buyers and maintain production cycles.
Lesotho’s government has called for long-term trade stability and is exploring relief measures for affected workers.
Lesotho Eyes 10% Tariff as It Pushes for Better Trade Terms with U.S.
Maseru – Lesotho is lobbying the United States to further reduce tariffs on its exports to just 10%, following economic strain caused by the recent shift in U.S. trade policy.
The move comes as government officials acknowledge that even a 15% tariff remains unsustainable for Lesotho’s fragile export-driven economy. Talks are ongoing, with the Ministry of Trade and Industry leading diplomatic engagements with U.S. counterparts.
According to Lesotho Tribune, Lesotho aims to position itself as a reliable supplier within the U.S. market by leveraging its political stability, production capacity and labour force.
Lesotho to Host Bafana Bafana World Cup Qualifier in Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein – The national football team of Lesotho will host South Africa’s Bafana Bafana at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on 5 September 2025 in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match.
This unusual arrangement follows the Confederation of African Football (CAF)’s ongoing ban on Lesotho’s home stadiums, which do not meet international standards. Lesotho Football Association (LEFA) confirmed the venue change, citing logistical cooperation with South African authorities.
As OneFootball reports, the fixture will be crucial for both sides, as group stage points are up for grabs. Lesotho supporters in South Africa are expected to attend in large numbers.
Sentebale Charity Faces Leadership Crisis as Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso Exit
London – Sentebale, the high-profile charity co-founded by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, is undergoing a period of leadership turmoil following internal conflict and a formal charity inquiry in the UK.
Dr. Chandauka alleged that she was asked to step down after she “dared to blow the whistle about issues of poor governance, weak executive management, abuse of power, bullying, harassment, misogyny, misogynoir.”
The Charity Commission for England and Walesstarted investigating Sentebale in April 2025 and concluded four months later that it found no evidence of “widespread or systemic bullying, harassment, misogyny or misogynoir.” The Commission also found no “overreach” by Prince Harry or Dr. Chandauka.
Sentebale’s former trustees said in a statement that they were “disheartened” by the findings and “gravely concerned for the future of the charity.” The current board accepted the Commission’s recommendations to improve how it handles internal disputes and defines organizational roles.
Although the UK Charity Commission found no financial misconduct, several former trustees have raised concerns about the charity’s governance. Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso stepped down as patrons earlier this year, leaving uncertainty about Sentebale’s future in Lesotho and Botswana.
The charity, known for its work supporting youth affected by HIV/AIDS, had operated in Lesotho since 2006.
Polihali Dam Project Gains Momentum in Water and Energy Development
Polihali, Mokhotlong – Construction of the Polihali Dam, part of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase II, is progressing rapidly with major infrastructure already underway.
The multibillion-rand project is a joint effort between Lesotho and South Africa to transfer water to the Gauteng region and boost Lesotho’s energy independence through increased hydropower capacity.
According to LHDA, the dam will also facilitate road, bridge and power line development in the mountainous Mokhotlong district, stimulating local economic growth and job creation.
