The Prime Minister (PM), honourable Ntsokoane Matekane says, the government is aware of the high unemployment rate facing Lesotho youth.

He said this when acknowledging that over 50 percent youth are unemployed, thus sharing the government's initiatives meant to redress the situation.

He explained this during a press conference held at LTV Studios on Monday, that the government is labour intensive, seeking to ensure youth attain jobs in large numbers bearing in mind their different knowledge and skills.

He stated that issues of agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and technology will be taken into account as this is done.

The PM added to this point, at least 6 000 youth with special skills including others will be given jobs in different areas that include protection of water resources, connectivity infrastructure as well as ICT.

Over and above that, he said 8350 Basotho will also get jobs quarterly so as to ensure waste management.

Other issues the PM touched on include issues of tree planting to fight climate change and its effects, where a total of 1220 youth will be employed.

The minister of Trade, Industry, and Business Development Mr Mokhethi Shelile mentioned that they have so far managed to re-open 12 factories hence 7124 employees are back at work.

Similarly, the Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, Mr. Thabo Mofosi said not only youth are in dire need of jobs especially those from aged 55, stating he is aware arable land is on the hands of some people who has no business to it, therefore are on turn around strategy to ensure agricultural projects serve the purpose intended for.

Today's presser comes amidst the 2025/26 Fiscal Year budget that has presented gloomy future and shuttered aspirations for youth as well as after USA sanctions to the African Continent.