Lesotho Industrial Push: The Auditor-General says the Competitiveness and Financial Inclusion Project (CAFI) is effectively stalled, with only 41% of its revised budget spent by March 31, 2024, despite its goal of boosting private-sector competitiveness and financial inclusion. Energy & Cost of Living: The Petroleum Fund moved to clear confusion, stressing it does not supply petrol directly, but oversees fuel pricing structures and monitors the petroleum supply chain as transport fares and basic goods prices rise. Manufacturing & Jobs Plan: The LNDC launched its “Letsema” 2026–2031 strategic plan, aiming to create 50,000 net new jobs and grow 100 homegrown industrialists, while targeting import dependence and value-add stagnation. Governance Under Scrutiny: A cabinet reshuffle dismissed two ministers and reshuffled portfolios, with the government spokesperson admitting he does not fully understand the rationale. Social Protection & Health: Metropolitan Lesotho launched Boiketlo Life Cover to widen access and challenge beliefs that life cover is too expensive or unavailable for people living with chronic illnesses. Water & Rights: The Ombudsman slammed LHDA over displacement in Polihali, citing poor consultation, opaque compensation, and failures to restore living standards. Digital Skills for Youth: A new AI Skills Development Programme was launched to train youth enterprises in e-commerce and AI tools under the Sebabatso ecosystem. Regional Trade Link: Botswana’s investment chief says Lesotho’s textile strength could help fill Botswana’s manufacturing gap, but the key constraint remains Lesotho’s reliance on imported fabric. Global Business Signals: Asahi Group and Varun Beverages announced a CALPIS franchising alliance for India’s non-alcohol, non-carbonated dairy beverage market, starting in late 2026 or later.