Lesotho’s removal from the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) Troika list restores its full stature as an equal partner within SADC and beyond.
The decision further elevates her credibility and allows her to engage international partners from a position of strength, rather than as a country under monitoring.
This is according to Lesotho’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union Ms Nts’iuoa Sekete, on her opinion piece following the announcement of the removal of Lesotho from the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) observation.
Ms Sekete indicated that the decision to remove Lesotho from the Troika’s list of countries under special observation is a landmark moment in the nation’s journey as for years as Lesotho has been viewed through the lens of instability and recurrent crises. She wrote that Lesotho was often attracting regional intervention, but now that narrative has shifted decisively which signals not only the recognition of Lesotho’s political reforms and stability but also opens the door to renewed economic opportunities and a stronger international standing.
She stated that economic growth thrives in environments of certainty and trust and by stepping out of the Troika’s observation, Lesotho demonstrates to investors, development partners and international markets that it is a stable and predictable environment for business. This shift strengthens investor confidence, improves prospects for foreign direct investment, and reassures our regional partners that Lesotho is ready to fully engage in cross-border trade under frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
She added that stability will allow Lesotho to focus on addressing unemployment, expanding industrial growth and positioning itself as a competitive hub in textiles, manufacturing, agro-processing and services.
Furthermore, she said the shift enhances Lesotho’s voice in continental and global forums, enabling her to pursue stronger alliances, negotiate trade deals with confidence, and attract technical and financial partnerships. She added that it also repositions Lesotho as a trusted contributor to regional peace, stability and collective prosperity which is an image that will strengthen its ties with both African and global partners.
In conclusion, she stressed that that this recognition, however, is not an end but a beginning as it challenges Lesotho to consolidate her progress through continued reforms, strengthened institutions and economic diversification. She said it calls for the country to translate political stability into tangible improvements in the lives of Basotho, jobs for the youth, opportunities for entrepreneurs and security for every household saying if nurtured wisely, this milestone will also set the foundation for inclusive growth and long-term resilience.
Lesotho was officially removed from the SADC Troika’s list of countries under special monitoring for instability during the 45th SADC Summit. This decision marks a significant shift, acknowledging the country’s progress in implementing reforms and achieving stability. Lesotho’s removal from the SADC Troika list indicates the country’s efforts to address instability and implement reforms have been recognized.
Source: Lesotho News Agency (LENA) 27/8/2025
