The NUL WTO Chair hosted a research seminar on October 18, 2022. It considered the nexus between industrialization and economic growth and development in the context of Lesotho. The Seminar was anchored on a presentation by Dr Denis Yuni which was titled “An Assessment of the Impact of Industrialization on Economic Growth in Lesotho.” The paper provides an overview of the trends and current status of industrialization in Lesotho. The analysis takes place at the macro level, as well as from sector-specific perspectives. It discusses key threats to industrialization in Lesotho, as well as opportunities. Employing the ARDL model for its analysis it presents findings that show that industrial development has significantly impacted the economic growth of Lesotho. 

Discussants in the seminar were drawn from, among others, academia, the public sector, and the private sector. These were Dr. Tsotang Tsietsi, Faculty of Law, NUL; Mr Christian Kabongo, from the South African Industrial Development Corporation; Ms. Relebohile Ramakhala, Ministry of Trade and Industry; Mr. Thabo Rakhetsi, The Lesotho National Development Corporation; Ms. Qothoase Khofane, The Private Sector Foundation of Lesotho and Mr. Monti Ntlopo, Lesotho Electricity and Water Authority. They considered the research findings and contributed ideas on how industrial policy can drive economic growth, structural transformation, and development in Lesotho. Some of the presentations are available in the resources folder.