A graduate from Mafeteng, Mr. Baphuthing Khunoyane (28), says young people appreciate the efforts made by the Government of Lesotho to reduce unemployment but believe more support is needed, particularly through funding and sustainable job creation.Mr. Khunoyane, who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama and English Language and Linguistics, made the remarks in an interview with the agency on Wednesday during the ongoing Leadership and Accountability Summit held at the District Administrator;s premises.

He said thousands of young people graduate from various institutions every year, but only a small number secure employment in either the public or private sector. Mr. Khunoyane acknowledged development projects undertaken by the government in Mafeteng, including the construction of telecommunications towers at Ha Leponesa and Hermon, as well as rural electrification projects at Ha Leponesa and Thabana-Morena, whichare already benefiting local communities.

However, he said more investment is needed to fund youth initiatives, create long-term employment opportunities and support entrepreneurship.He further appealed to the government to revive the district;s manufacturing sector, saying the closure of factories has left many skilled and unskilled young people without employment.

He also called for the upgrading of Leshoboro Seeiso Stadium, saying the district has sporting talent but cannot host major football matches because the stadium does not meet the required standards.Meanwhile, a Mafeteng resident, Mrs. Mabokang Lethibelane (48), commended the government for development projects being implemented in the district, including the construction of a new bus terminal, which is nearing completion.She said the closure of factories across the country, together with retrenchments of Basotho mineworkers in South Africa, has contributed to rising unemployment, poverty and hunger, making it difficult for many parents to pay school fees for their children.