Fifty youths are currently participating in training on business plan development and pitching skills after being shortlisted for the 2025 Bacha Entrepreneurship Project (BEP). The initiative is a collaboration between Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL), the Basotho Enterprises Development Corporation (BEDCO), and Standard Lesotho Bank, aimed at empowering youth-led businesses.
BEP is designed to unlock the potential of young Basotho entrepreneurs and drive economic growth in Lesotho. Since its inception in 2014, the project has funded and developed 28 businesses across various sectors, created over 100 jobs, and provided 188 aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills.
Speaking at the opening of the training at BEDCO premises this week, BEDCO Executive Head of Enterprises Development, Lepheane Lesoli, said the programme equips participants with skills to refine their business proposals and pitching ahead of the final selection of the top 15 candidates.
Mr. Lesoli explained that after training, the 50 candidates will resubmit improved proposals. These will go through adjudication, pitching, psychometric tests, due diligence, and the final selection of the top five winners.
“You are going to be equipped with skills on business models and everything that has to do with entrepreneurship. That’s not to say that others were not worthwhile. You can further enhance your business plan so it makes more sense, becomes clearer, and is enhanced—not only to be better than before, but also to give you a chance to access other avenues of funding from commercial banks,” he said.
He added that not everyone will win, but the skills gained will allow participants to continue developing their businesses, with opportunities for funding from local or international investors. The training follows the evaluation of over 250 candidates, narrowing the pool to 50 for this stage.
Mr. Lesoli also highlighted BEP’s impact on Basotho youth. Since 2014, the project has invested over M10 million, supported 33 youth-led businesses, and created 184 employment opportunities, demonstrating entrepreneurship’s role in sustainable development and economic growth.
Participant Rethabile Pitso said the training helps identify gaps in knowledge and provides networking opportunities and potential collaborations for the future.
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