Factories in Lesotho, a key hub for clothing exports, are struggling to stay afloat after the U.S. imposed steep tariffs on imports, putting thousands of jobs at risk.
One of the affected factories, which previously produced golf shirts for a well-known U.S. brand, may soon shut down entirely. Workers, already grappling with reduced hours and slashed wages, fear for their livelihoods.
“I don’t know how we’ll survive. This could destroy us,” said one employee, a single mother supporting her family on a meager income. She now works only half the month, cutting her earnings in half.
Lesotho, often called Africa’s denim capital, has long supplied major American retailers. But the recent 50% tariff threat—though temporarily paused—has sent shockwaves through the industry. Even a 10% duty remains in place, making exports far less competitive.
The crisis has forced the government to declare a state of emergency to accelerate job creation. Yet, for many, help isn’t coming fast enough. Outside shuttered factories, desperate job seekers gather daily, hoping for even temporary work.
“We often eat just once a day—sometimes not at all,” said one unemployed woman, now selling face masks to scrape by.
The textile sector, once a lifeline for Lesotho’s economy, now faces an uncertain future. With youth unemployment near 50%, frustration is mounting. Critics accuse officials of failing to act decisively, while trade leaders insist they’re seeking alternatives, like shifting focus to South African markets.
But for workers already on the brink, promises ring hollow. As machines sit idle and layoffs spread, the question remains: Can Lesotho’s garment industry survive this blow?
