Electricity Push: Lesotho renewed its drive for universal power by 2030, as Mafeteng’s China-backed Ha-Ramarothole Solar Project moves into Phase II, aiming to cut costly electricity imports and speed rural connections. Solar Expansion: The Ha-Ramarothole Phase II rollout adds 50MW to reach 80MW total, complementing Muela Hydropower and strengthening energy security. Water Infrastructure: Polihali Dam Phase II construction hit 50% completion, with the project still on track for reservoir impoundment in the 2027/28 rainy season. Industrial Support: Trade and Industry officials highlighted progress under the Regional Value Chains Lesotho Plus programme, citing stronger agro-processing and light manufacturing value chains and wider market access for Basotho firms. Asset Management: LNDC raised concerns over tenants misusing its properties, with about M50 million in unpaid rent and plans to remove non-compliant occupants to attract genuine investors. Energy Policy Meets Jobs: Africa’s manufacturing leaders meet at Manufacturing Indaba 2026 to push AfCFTA-linked industrialisation, localisation and trade growth. Regional Security Spillover: South Africa’s Operation Prosper and related crackdowns in Gauteng and Randfontein arrested hundreds of suspected illegal miners, including many Lesotho nationals, while anti-migrant tensions raise fears of labour-market shocks for regional industries. Garment Sector Pressure: In South Africa, clothing factory owners warn the industry faces collapse as immigrant workers leave amid xenophobic violence and raids tied to “sweatshop” concerns. Financial Literacy: NUL and the Central Bank of Lesotho launched a structured financial literacy programme to reduce consumer contract misunderstandings and complaints.