The recent 8th EU-South Africa Summit in Cape Town has opened doors for significant financial commitments from the European Union (EU), presenting potential benefits for neighboring Lesotho. With European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announcing a substantial €4.7 billion Global Gateway Investment Package, the focus is now on energy transition, critical raw materials, low-carbon hydrogen value chains, and energy infrastructure.
Although primarily targeting South Africa, these investments could have ripple effects on Lesotho, which maintains strong economic and geographic ties with its neighbor. As Lesotho seeks to diversify its economy and invest in renewable energy, the EU’s funding presents an opportunity for collaborative projects that could accelerate sustainable development in the landlocked kingdom.
Business leader Seeisa Majoro, in an interview with the Agency, emphasized the potential advantages Lesotho could gain by tapping into South Africa’s just energy transition framework. He highlighted that leveraging South Africa’s expertise and resources could provide invaluable insights into building a resilient, climate-conscious economic strategy for Lesotho.
With the global push toward cleaner energy, this EU-backed initiative could serve as a catalyst for Lesotho to develop its renewable energy infrastructure, strengthen economic ties with international investors, and ensure long-term sustainability in the face of climate change.
