Basotho Diaspora urged to invest locally

The Lesotho Competitiveness and Financial Inclusion Project (CAFI) has urged Basotho living abroad with entrepreneurial skills, professional expertise, or financial resources to contribute to the country’s economic transformation and development. 

These individuals will be expected to take part in theLesotho Diaspora Entrepreneurship and Investment Program (LDEIP), a strategic initiative designed to leverage the potential of the Basotho Diaspora for national development. 

The program is an initiative under the Lesotho Entrepreneurship Hub and Seed Financing Facility (LEHSFF) supported by the CAFI project, which aims to enliven inclusive economic development. 

LDEIP aims to create a dynamic platform for diaspora entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals to collaborate with local enterprises, especially youth and women owned start-ups and early-stage ventures. 

By providing mentorship, capacity building and seed funding, the program seeks to stimulate innovation, support start-up growth, and unlock investment opportunities in sectors aligned with Lesotho’s development priorities, including agriculture, technology, manufacturing, tourism, and services.

In a statement, CAFI said it is looking for Basotho professionals willing to offer mentorship, training or industry insights. It also seeks investors seeking promising start-ups and early-stage ventures for seed funding and co-investment in Lesotho, as well as strategic partners willing to contribute technical expertise or networks.