…dubs it a catalyst for transformation, innovation
Moroke Sekoboto
PRIME Minister Sam Matekane has described the Sebabatso initiative as a beacon of hope, innovation, entrepreneurship, and empowerment for the youth.
Mr Matekane said through this initiative, there is hope, transformation, and faith in the boundless potential of young people.
Launched on 25 October 2023 by Mr Matekane, Sebabatso — meaning “We Grow Together” — is a youth empowerment initiative designed to reduce Lesotho’s high youth unemployment rate and alleviate the difficult economic climate.
This year’s edition started on Monday this week and is scheduled to end tomorrow (Friday).
The programme focuses on fostering youth-led businesses, preparing them for investment opportunities at both national and international levels. It spans key sectors such as agriculture, arts, science, technology, and tourism, using entrepreneurship as a catalyst for economic transformation.
At its core, Sebabatso is about inclusivity, innovation, and collective progress, providing young Basotho with a platform to unlock their potential, nurture their creativity, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s sustainable development.
Speaking at the opening of the third edition of the Sebabatso Initiative on Monday this week at the ’Manthabiseng Convention Centre in Maseru, the premier said the initiative was born out of a promise to empower youth, unlock their potential, and create pathways for sustainable development.
“It is a movement that brings together young minds from across Lesotho, most of them daring to dream, building new aspirations, and becoming future leaders. It is a platform where ideas become enterprises, and where innovation meets opportunity.
“This initiative is a declaration that the future of Lesotho lies in the hands of its young entrepreneurs and innovators. It has grown from an idea into a national platform that nurtures talent, fosters entrepreneurship, and connects our youth to continental networks,” Mr Matekane said.
He described Sebabatso as a movement of change — a platform where ideas are cultivated, talents nurtured, and futures forged.
“The vision of Sebabatso has been, and remains, a guiding light for Basotho seeking to reach greater heights. Sebabatso is not just a name — it is a symbol of collective ambition, a testament to what is possible when a community comes together in pursuit of progress,” he said.
The Prime Minister also said Sebabatso has helped countless Basotho break barriers, enter new markets and achieve what was once thought impossible. The initiative, he said, continues to support entrepreneurs, empower innovators, and provide opportunities through grants, mentorship, and business incubation.
Congratulating the finalists, Mr Matekane praised their courage to apply dedication to their dreams, and resilience in the face of challenges.
“I have witnessed your tenacity — the way you organise, innovate, and refuse to let adversity define your path. Your resilience gives hope to our nation; your ambition fuels our collective progress. But let me impress upon you, as you strive for excellence, do so with honour, respect, and within the framework of the law.”
He stressed that the power of youth lies not in defiance but in constructive engagement, creativity, and transformation.
“Let us push for change through dialogue, creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation. You have an administration that believes in a functional democracy based on dialogue and engagement.”
Mr Matekane reminded the youth that dreams require discipline, patience, and societal support. He encouraged them to persist in pursuing their ambitions despite obstacles.
He also expressed gratitude to United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for its vision and partnership in strengthening Sebabatso, noting that without UNDP, Lesotho would not be part of Youth Connekt Africa.
He also thanked the Lesotho National Development Corporation (LNDC) and the Central Bank of Lesotho (CBL) for their financial support, which has enabled young entrepreneurs and innovators to bring their ideas to life.
Mr Matekane also extended a special acknowledgment to Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) for its role in connecting youth to the world.
“Not only has ETL expanded internet access for young people across Lesotho, but today, you have ensured that this conference is powered by unlimited internet — enabling seamless collaboration, learning, and inspiration,” Mr Matekane said.
He reiterated his vision of a prosperous, inclusive and forward-looking Lesotho where every Mosotho, especially the youth, can thrive.
The Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Pitso Lesaoana, hailed Sebabatso as the most successful youth programme in the country, which unites youth in exploring business opportunities that turn them into winners.
The Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation (MICSTI), Nthati Moorosi, noted that the conference coincided with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) week.
Both STEAM and Sebabatso have showcased remarkable growth, innovation, and creativity, she said.
“All youth should know that their creativity matters and is worthy. Let us embrace our businesses through STEAM as we celebrate the 2025 Sebabatso initiative,” Ms Moorosi said.
Meanwhile, UNDP Resident Representative, Jacqueline Olweya, expressed delight at the milestone of three years and one month since Sebabatso’s launch by the Prime Minister. She commended the participation of youth across the country, especially youth with disabilities.
“I am glad that there is progress among youth entrepreneurs, demonstrated by the active participation of youth with disabilities,” Dr Olweya said.
This year’s conference is being attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and youth from various sectors.
