The government of Lesotho has declared a national state of disaster in response to soaring youth unemployment and economic instability, citing uncertainty over US trade tariffs and fears of losing preferential access under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
Deputy Prime Minister Nthomeng Majara announced on Wednesday that the declaration – effective until 30 June 2027 – would enable the government to mobilise emergency resources and fast-track interventions aimed at job creation and economic recovery.
The move would allow for swift policy responses under the Disaster Management Act.
It comes as Lesotho’s youth unemployment nears 50 percent, far exceeding the national average of 30 percent, according to official data.
Lesotho’s textile-driven economy has been severely impacted by shifting US trade policies.
In April, President Donald Trump imposed a 50 percent tariff on Lesotho’s exports – the highest rate levied on any country – before pausing the measure amid diplomatic backlash.
However, a 10 percent baseline tariff remains in effect, while uncertainty over AGOA’s renewal by September 2025 has led to cancelled orders and mass layoffs in the garment sector.
There are fears that up to 40,000 jobs could be lost if AGOA is not extended, a devastating economic blow for this nation of about 2.3 million people.
JN/APA