Lesotho Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Development During High-Level Meeting with UN Deputy Secretary-General

Lesotho has once again demonstrated its commitment to achieving sustainable development through high-level engagement with the United Nations during the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF). On the sidelines of the global event, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Dr. Rets’elisitsoe Matlanyane, and the Minister of Natural Resources, Mr. Mohlomi Moleko, paid a courtesy call on United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Ms. Amina J. Mohammed. The meeting provided an opportunity for Lesotho to showcase its progress toward implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while strengthening its long-standing partnership with the United Nations. Discussions focused on the country’s development priorities, investment opportunities and the continued support needed to achieve the ambitious goals of the 2030 Agenda. The engagement reflected a shared commitment to accelerating sustainable growth despite the economic and environmental challenges facing many developing nations.

During the meeting, the Honourable Ministers expressed sincere appreciation on behalf of the Government of Lesotho for the United Nations’ continued assistance across various sectors. The country’s partnership with the UN has supported numerous development initiatives aimed at improving governance, strengthening institutions and enhancing the quality of life for citizens. This cooperation has been particularly valuable in addressing issues related to economic development, environmental sustainability and social inclusion. The Government acknowledged that international partnerships remain an important part of achieving long-term national development objectives. By maintaining close collaboration with the United Nations, Lesotho continues to benefit from technical expertise, policy guidance and development support that contribute to national progress.

As Head of Delegation, Dr. Rets’elisitsoe Matlanyane highlighted the progress Lesotho has made in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals despite facing several economic and structural challenges. She explained that the Government remains committed to integrating the SDGs into national planning and policy implementation to ensure that development efforts produce measurable and lasting results. The country’s progress demonstrates its determination to improve living standards while promoting economic resilience and environmental sustainability. Dr. Matlanyane also emphasized that achieving the SDGs requires coordinated efforts from government institutions, development partners, the private sector and civil society. This collaborative approach is essential for ensuring that development initiatives are inclusive and benefit communities across the country.

A significant part of the discussions focused on Lesotho’s intensified efforts to attract both foreign and local investment. Dr. Matlanyane noted that increased investment is essential for accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and supporting long-term economic growth. Encouraging private investment can help create jobs, improve infrastructure and stimulate innovation across multiple sectors of the economy. The Government continues to strengthen policies that create a more attractive investment climate while promoting transparency and investor confidence. By attracting sustainable investment, Lesotho aims to diversify its economy, reduce poverty and generate greater economic opportunities for its citizens.

The delegation also outlined several national priorities that are central to Lesotho’s development agenda. Strengthening public financial accountability remains one of the Government’s primary objectives as it seeks to improve transparency, responsible spending and efficient management of public resources. Effective financial governance plays a vital role in ensuring that development funding reaches intended projects and delivers meaningful benefits to communities. The Government also emphasized the importance of promoting private sector investment in the country’s natural resources, recognizing that responsible resource development can contribute significantly to economic growth and national revenue. Through sound governance and strategic investment, Lesotho hopes to maximize the value of its natural assets while ensuring sustainable management for future generations.

Food security was another key priority discussed during the meeting, reflecting its importance for national development and social stability. Climate change, changing weather patterns and economic pressures continue to affect agricultural productivity in many parts of the country. The Government is therefore placing increased emphasis on strengthening agricultural production, improving food systems and building resilience among rural communities. Investments in modern farming practices, water management and agricultural innovation can help improve food availability while supporting rural livelihoods. These efforts are expected to contribute not only to food security but also to broader economic development and poverty reduction.

Youth employment also featured prominently during the discussions as one of Lesotho’s most pressing development priorities. With a large proportion of the population made up of young people, creating meaningful employment opportunities remains essential for long-term economic and social progress. The Government recognizes that investing in education, vocational training, entrepreneurship and digital skills is necessary to prepare young people for the evolving job market. Expanding employment opportunities helps reduce poverty, strengthens household incomes and encourages innovation across the economy. By focusing on youth empowerment, Lesotho aims to harness the potential of its younger generation as a driving force for national development.

United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Ms. Amina J. Mohammed welcomed Lesotho’s continued commitment to sustainable development and praised the country’s efforts to advance the Sustainable Development Goals. She acknowledged that many countries continue to face significant challenges, including economic uncertainty, climate change and resource constraints, but emphasized that progress remains possible through strong leadership and effective partnerships. The Deputy Secretary-General reaffirmed the United Nations’ continued support for Lesotho as it works toward achieving the 2030 Agenda. Her remarks reinforced the importance of collaboration between governments and international organizations in addressing complex development challenges. Continued cooperation will help ensure that Lesotho has access to the expertise and support needed to accelerate its national development agenda.

The meeting between Lesotho’s senior ministers and the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General highlighted the country’s determination to build a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable future. By prioritizing investment, public financial accountability, responsible natural resource development, food security and youth employment, the Government is laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and social progress. The United Nations’ continued support provides valuable encouragement as Lesotho works to overcome existing challenges while pursuing the objectives of the 2030 Agenda. Strong partnerships, effective leadership and sustained commitment will remain essential as the country continues its development journey. The discussions at the High-Level Political Forum demonstrated that Lesotho remains focused on transforming its development ambitions into tangible outcomes that improve the lives of its people and contribute to a more sustainable future.