Youth Empowerment Takes Center Stage in Lesotho Development Efforts

Youth empowerment has become a central focus in addressing Lesotho’s critical development challenges. On January 26, 2026, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Nedbank Lesotho met to explore potential partnerships aimed at creating long-term community impact. The engagement brought together UNFPA Representative to Lesotho, Mr John Kennedy Mosoti, and Nedbank Lesotho Managing Director, Mr Nkau Matete. Discussions centered on empowering young people while tackling urgent issues such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and maternal mortality. Both parties emphasized that strong collaboration between government, civil society, and the private sector is essential to achieve sustainable results.

Mr Mosoti highlighted UNFPA’s commitment to supporting the Government of Lesotho in revitalizing 12 Youth Resource Centres nationwide. These centres serve as safe spaces where young people access skills development, information, and opportunities for meaningful participation. He also stressed the importance of improving menstrual health and hygiene management. Providing girls and young women with essential services and education allows them to stay in school, engage in society, and reach their full potential.

Nedbank Managing Director Mr Matete welcomed the discussions, noting that they reflected the urgent reality of GBV and maternal mortality in Lesotho. He emphasized that strong strategic partnerships are vital for delivering sustainable impact in communities. Through collaboration with the private sector, UNFPA continues to champion collective action toward a society where every woman, girl, and young person lives in dignity, enjoys good health, and has access to opportunities for a better future.

The discussions highlighted Lesotho’s high rates of gender-based violence and maternal mortality, which currently stands at 530 deaths per 100,000 live births, placing the country second highest in Africa for both indicators. UNFPA outlined key interventions to reduce maternal deaths, including the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response system, which strengthens accountability and improves maternal health care quality. Efforts to combat GBV were also highlighted, particularly through the GBV Multi-Purpose Centre, designed to provide survivors with safe spaces for rehabilitation, dignity, and recovery.

The meeting underscored that youth empowerment, maternal health, and GBV prevention are interconnected. Strategic partnerships like that between UNFPA and Nedbank Lesotho aim to ensure that interventions are sustainable and have measurable impact. By investing in young people and vulnerable communities, Lesotho can move toward a future where health, safety, and opportunity are accessible to all.