10 Things You Should Know About Hon. Mokhethi Shelile, Lesotho Minister Of Trade, Industry And Business Development

Honourable Mokhethi Shelile is a distinguished figure in Lesotho’s political and economic spheres, currently serving as the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Business Development. Born on May 23, 1968, in Mokhotlong, his journey from a humble beginning to a significant political role is marked by dedication, expertise, and a passion for economic development. Educated at the National University of Lesotho with a BA in Economics, Hon. Shelile has built a career that spans investment promotion, international consultancy, and political leadership.

1. Ministerial Appointment: Honourable Mokhethi Shelile was appointed as the Minister of Trade and Industry, Business Development, and Tourism on October 30, 2022. In this role, he is tasked with creating a conducive environment for business development, trade, investment, and industrialization, aiming for private sector-led job creation and poverty reduction.
2. Political Career: He is a founding member of the Revolution for Prosperity Party (RFP) and serves as the Public Relations Officer of the party. Hon. Shelile represents the Lithabaneng Constituency (40) in Parliament under the leadership of Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane.
3. Educational Background: Hon. Shelile holds a BA in Economics from the National University of Lesotho, where he graduated in 1995. His educational foundation has significantly contributed to his expertise in trade and economic development.
4. Early Career in Investment Promotion: After completing his university education, Hon. Shelile joined the Lesotho National Development Corporation (LNDC) as an Investment Promotion Officer. His dedication and hard work saw him rise to the position of Head of Investment Promotion.
5. International Recognition: During his tenure at LNDC, he earned the UNCTAD Investment Promotion Agency of the Year award in 2016. His leadership and strategic initiatives in investment promotion were recognized on an international level.
6. Career Outside Politics: Before venturing into politics, Hon. Shelile had an illustrious career in investment promotion. He led successful international investment promotion missions in various countries, including the SACU region, Kenya, Tanzania, Libya, Egypt, the United Kingdom, and Germany.
7. Consultancy Work: From 2020, Hon. Shelile worked as a consultant for GDP Global in the United Kingdom and on the SADC Investment Climate. His consultancy work focused on creating a favorable environment for investment and sharing his extensive knowledge in the field.
8. Restructuring and Innovation at LNDC: He pioneered the restructuring process at LNDC in 2017 and institutionalized the partial credit guarantee scheme for the local private sector. These initiatives have had a lasting impact on Lesotho’s investment climate and economic development.
9. Board Memberships: Hon. Shelile has served on the boards of several prominent organizations, including Maluti Mountain Brewery, Basotho Enterprise Development Corporation, and the Mineworkers Union. His roles in these organizations reflect his commitment to economic and enterprise development.
10. Personal Life: Born on May 23, 1968, in Mokhotlong, Hon. Shelile is married with children. He enjoys golfing and sightseeing in the mountains of Lesotho, reflecting his love for both sports and the natural beauty of his country.

Honourable Mokhethi Shelile’s career is a testament to his dedication to economic development and investment promotion. From his early days at the LNDC to his current role as Minister, he has consistently demonstrated leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving Lesotho’s economic landscape.