Energy & Industry: Lesotho renewed its push for energy self-reliance, pledging universal electricity access for all households by 2030 while expanding the China-backed Ha-Ramarothole Solar Power Project in Mafeteng; the Phase II 50MW expansion lifts total capacity to 80MW and is framed as a way to cut the country’s roughly M1bn annual electricity import bill. Solar Rollout: The government also launched a new policy for free household electricity installation, replacing earlier community pooling arrangements. Trade & Jobs: The Ministry of Trade and Industry says the EU- and BMZ-backed Regional Value Chains Lesotho Plus (RVCL+) programme is helping Basotho firms in agro-processing and light manufacturing, with 102 companies taking part in eight international trade fairs and products reaching Europe, Japan and South Africa. Industrial Land Management: The Lesotho National Development Corporation flagged M50m in unpaid rent and plans an operation to remove tenants misusing its properties to make space for genuine investors. Water Infrastructure: Construction of the Polihali Dam (LHWP Phase II) hit 50% completion and remains on track for reservoir impoundment in 2027/28. Regional Labour Shock: South Africa’s anti-migrant protests and xenophobic raids are driving foreign workers to flee, raising fears of labour shortages that could hit sectors that rely on migrant labour, including construction, farming and informal trade. Mining Crackdown Spillover: In Gauteng, Operation Prosper led to the arrest of 217 suspected illegal miners, including many Lesotho nationals, underscoring how regional security actions can directly affect Basotho livelihoods. Garment Sector Pressure: In KwaZulu-Natal, clothing factory owners warn the industry faces collapse as immigrant workers leave and retailers’ low prices make it hard to comply with labour rules.