National Quality Awards: Lesotho’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Business Development has launched the 2026 Lesotho National Quality Awards, urging firms to build a culture of excellence to stay competitive under regional integration and the AfCFTA. Textile factory labour dispute: Trade Minister Motlatsi Maqelepo has ordered the LNDC to investigate protests at Precious Garments over reduced working hours, wages and delayed payments, after workers said information flow on factory changes failed. Youth enterprise push (CAFI): During a CAFI-backed business tour, Maqelepo urged young people to start new companies, with fresh attention on textile, food and brick-making opportunities. Quality and consumer safety: The National Consumer Commission and Woolworths issued a recall of WBeauty Complete Clarifying Shampoo after a bacterium was detected; customers are told to stop using and return for a refund. Climate risk for farmers: The Environment and Forestry Ministry warns most of Lesotho to expect below-normal rainfall and intense heat in 2026/27, with heavier rains likely between January and March 2027. Fuel pricing reality: An explainer reiterates that Lesotho’s import parity pricing limits pump discounts because the country imports already-refined fuel priced off international benchmarks. Tourism benefits gap (LHWP): Government admits it has not fully harnessed LHWP-linked tourism and economic opportunities for communities around project areas. Digital investment: WIOCC secured $300m to expand Africa’s open-access digital infrastructure, supporting data centres and fibre and subsea cable growth.