Africa-Press – Lesotho. The Minister of Trade, Industry and Business Development (MTIBD), Mr. Mokhethi Shelile, attended the official opening of Tranquil Textiles (Pty) Ltd in Maputsoe, Leribe.
The opening of the locally owned apparel and textile factory marks a significant milestone in Lesotho’s industrialisation agenda and economic growth.
In his address, Mr. Shelile emphasized that the growth of Tranquil Textiles aligns with Government’s vision of promoting Basotho-owned enterprises as drivers of sustainable employment and inclusive economic development.
He reiterated that industrialisation led by local entrepreneurs remains central to transforming the economy and reducing poverty.
The Minister called upon Basotho youth to actively pursue entrepreneurial opportunities, emphasizing that the public sector alone cannot accommodate all job seekers.
He identified private sector development and entrepreneurship as indispensable pillars for economic transformation.
Minister Shelile also highlighted the recent launch of the Inclusive Growth Facility (IGF), a joint initiative by MTIBD and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning designed to improve access to finance and enable broader participation of Basotho in the economy.
Mr. Shelile also acknowledged the vital role played by CAFI in strengthening business sustainability and building the capacity of local entrepreneurs.
He expressed appreciation to GiZ, with support from the European Union, for empowering Basotho, particularly within the cosmetics industry and the apparel and textile sector.
Reaffirming Government’s commitment to market access, the Minister stated that MTIBD continues to work diligently to ensure that Lesotho-produced goods access local, regional, and international markets, thereby enhancing competitiveness and export growth.
The Minister further highlighted the role of the Lesotho National Development Corporation (LNDC) as a key institution supporting both local and foreign investors.
He added that LNDC plays a crucial role in making a positive impact on the economy by promoting investment across multiple sectors, fostering a diversified industrial base, and creating sustainable employment opportunities for Basotho through an enabling investmentt environment and targeted incentives.
The official opening of Tranquil Textile stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision, entrepreneurship and coordinated government support converge to drive sustainable national development.
Tranquil Textiles, founded by Mr. Clement Molupe Molupe, was established in 2019 with only four employees.
Through strategic support and funding from the Competitiveness and Financial Inclusion (CAFI) programme, the company has expanded significantly and currently employs 60 Basotho, contributing meaningfully to job creation and skills development.
