Africa-Press – Lesotho. The Qacha’s Nek Youth Centre in Thifa, Sehlekehlekeng, buzzed with energy on Saturday as young people gathered for the 7th edition of the Youth Dialogue on Economic Independence.
Participants discussed persistent challenges facing local youth, including limited employment and social opportunities, the absence of sporting and rehabilitation facilities, and the lack of higher learning institutions in the district.
They noted that prolonged inactivity and limited engagement contribute to rising crime, alcohol and substance abuse, reflecting both personal choices and deeper structural and systemic barriers, while also exploring solutions to boost self-reliance and support the district’s economic growth.
In an interview with the Agency, Tumelo Moteuli, a Qacha’s Nek native and member of the Youth Dialogue Initiative, said the dialogue builds on similar engagements previously held in Maseru, Mohale’s Hoek, Mafeteng, Berea and Leribe, making Qacha’s Nek the sixth district to host the platform.
