Lesotho Hosts Third National Youth Dialogue to Tackle Unemployment and Promote Economic Independence

The third edition of the National Youth Dialogue on Economic Independence took place on Saturday in Taung, Ha Zwakala, located in Lesotho’s Mohale’s Hoek district. The event forms part of the wider initiative known as the “Towards a Self-Sufficient Future Campaign”, aimed at empowering youth to shape economic policies and drive their own development.

Designed as a structured platform for engagement, the dialogue brings together young people, thought leaders, and policy influencers to discuss innovative solutions to the country’s persistent youth unemployment crisis. This latest installment placed a strong emphasis on patriotism, private sector growth, and the power of group entrepreneurship.

Among the key speakers was Tebello Tjapela, an entrepreneur and CEO of Phuthalichaba Credit and Savings. Tjapela delivered a candid critique of youth attitudes toward self-sufficiency, noting that socio-economic independence is not yet fully embraced in Lesotho.

“There is a mindset among young people that after graduating, they must be hired,” he said. “This belief limits their potential. We need to change this thinking and stimulate the private sector because when it is developed, unemployment can be reduced.”

Tjapela also highlighted patriotism as a missing link in the fight against unemployment, arguing that many young Basotho do not feel compelled to contribute to their communities. “If youth were more committed to building their own country, we would see more innovation, enterprise, and economic progress,” he added.

Molise Rasello, CEO of BachaShutdown, echoed similar sentiments and called for a collective approach to entrepreneurship. He encouraged young people to build businesses together, emphasizing the value of teamwork in starting and growing enterprises.

“Working in groups makes things easier,” Rasello said. “You bring different minds together, and it also increases your chances of accessing funding and making your business thrive.”

As Lesotho faces a growing demand for job creation and inclusive economic growth, dialogues like this offer a critical space for young people to shape the future they want. The Towards a Self-Sufficient Future Campaign continues to gain momentum by promoting homegrown solutions and nurturing the spirit of entrepreneurship among the nation’s youth.