European Union Grants €2.87 Million to Support Lesotho Civil Society Initiatives

The European Union (EU) has awarded €2.87 million (approximately M57 million) in grants to four civil society organisations (CSOs) in Lesotho to address critical community challenges. The funding targets projects focused on clean water access, sanitation, and sustainable energy solutions.

EU Ambassador to Lesotho, Mette Sunnergren, announced the grants during a media briefing. She highlighted that the EU has consistently invested in civil society initiatives, providing regular funding opportunities to empower organisations to drive social and environmental change.

“The European Union considers civil society a key partner, both globally and in Lesotho. Civil society organisations play a central role in driving change and facilitating service delivery, advocacy, governance, and community development,” Ambassador Sunnergren stated.

The grant beneficiaries include the International Commission of Jurists, Gender Links, Sesotho Media and Development, and Catholic Relief Services. These organisations implement programmes focused on gender equality, women’s economic empowerment, and climate justice, addressing pressing social and environmental issues in communities across Lesotho.

The EU’s support aims to strengthen the capacity of these organisations to deliver impactful interventions, enhance community resilience, and promote sustainable development. The initiative reinforces the EU’s commitment to partnering with local civil society to foster inclusive growth and equitable access to essential services.