Lesotho’s Ministry of Trade Launches Cutting Facility at JEE Clothing Factory as Part of #ReBulaLifeme Campaign

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Business Development has taken a bold step toward revitalizing Lesotho’s manufacturing sector with the official launch of a new cutting facility at the JEE Clothing factory in Maputsoe. The facility was officially opened by the Minister of Trade, Hon. Mokhethi Shelile, as part of the government’s ongoing #ReBulaLifeme campaign aimed at stimulating industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable economic development.

The opening ceremony marked a significant milestone for the textile and apparel industry, which continues to be one of Lesotho’s key economic drivers. The new cutting facility is expected to boost local production capacity, improve turnaround times, and create additional employment opportunities for Basotho, particularly youth and women.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Shelile emphasized the importance of strengthening domestic manufacturing to reduce dependency on imports and position Lesotho as a competitive player in regional and international markets. “This cutting facility is more than just machinery—it is a symbol of progress, of our commitment to industrial transformation and of empowering our people through decent work,” said Shelile.

The #ReBulaLifeme campaign, which loosely translates to “Let’s Revive the Economy,” is a government-led initiative focused on reviving local industries, attracting investment, and supporting entrepreneurship. The initiative is aligned with the National Strategic Development Plan and aims to rebuild Lesotho’s economy through inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven industrialization.

JEE Clothing, a well-established garment manufacturer in Lesotho’s textile hub of Maputsoe, welcomed the development as a timely investment that will enhance its operations. Company executives noted that the new facility would help meet growing demand while maintaining high quality standards for export and local markets alike.

The event was attended by key stakeholders from the private sector, government agencies, and development partners, all of whom lauded the initiative as a meaningful step in advancing industrial capacity and economic resilience in Lesotho.

With initiatives like the cutting facility and broader #ReBulaLifeme campaign, Lesotho is positioning itself to reclaim and expand its role in the textile value chain, while offering renewed hope for inclusive economic growth and sustainable livelihoods.