Lesotho Hosts Diaspora Trade and Investment Forum to Boost Economic Diplomacy

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations successfully hosted the Lesotho Diaspora Trade and Investment Forum, aiming to leverage the human and financial capital of Basotho living abroad for national development. The forum brought together over 180 participants, including diaspora business professionals, development partners, trade attachés, chambers of commerce, and representatives from key institutions.

The opening session highlighted the government’s commitment to inclusive development. Deputy Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Limpho Masilo Motsamai, outlined strategies for engaging diaspora leadership and institutions. Principal Secretary for Trade, Ms. Palesa Matobako, emphasized government reforms to create a level playing field for diaspora-led investments. High Commissioner to Pretoria, HE Jafeta Ntsime, welcomed participants, while Dr. Pali Lehohla, representing the Basotho Diaspora Association, shared diaspora expectations and priorities.

The forum featured thematic sessions focusing on critical areas for diaspora engagement. LNDC and LTDC led discussions on Lesotho’s investment landscape and opportunities. BEDCO and CAFI facilitated sessions on diaspora entrepreneurship and investment. Private sector participation was explored with input from LCCI and the Pan African Chamber of Commerce. The Ministry of Labour, with contributions from Mrs. Matebello Raliapeng, IOM, and UNDP, led sessions on harnessing human capital.

Sessions were moderated by Deputy High Commissioner in Pretoria, Ms. Mathapelo Kanono, and Mr. Molefi Nyaka, Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The forum also included a representative from South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation – Economic Diplomacy Division.

The closing remarks were delivered by Consul General in Johannesburg, Mrs. Mamolefi Ntaitsane, who urged participants to turn discussions into practical action. She emphasized the need to convert ideas into jobs and development, and thanked CAFI, the main sponsor, along with all attendees.

The forum represents a significant step in strengthening economic ties between Lesotho and its diaspora. By fostering investment, entrepreneurship, and human capital engagement, the initiative aims to accelerate national development and create sustainable opportunities for the country.