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Lesotho’s King Takes Green Energy Mission to Davos, Seeking Global Investment

In the snowy heights of Davos, where global leaders converge annually, Lesotho’s King Letsie III is making a bold appeal: invest in his nation’s green energy future. The monarch is promoting the His Majesty King Letsie III Just Energy Transition Fund, aimed at revolutionizing Lesotho’s energy landscape through renewable projects like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum, the King emphasized the urgency of attracting global investment to transform Lesotho’s economy and combat climate change.
A New Economic Vision for Lesotho
Lesotho, a small, landlocked country of just over two million people, faces significant economic and environmental challenges. Many Basotho rely on jobs in South Africa’s mining sector, which has seen a downturn.
King Letsie highlighted the critical need for a different economic model.
“I see our potential to produce renewable energy as something that can be a transformative factor in the development of our economy,” he said.
The fund, launched in February 2024, is managed by the private sector with advisory support from Standard Chartered and Standard Bank Group.
Catalytic Funding and Climate Action
Lesotho’s vast natural resources—abundant sunlight, strong winds, and flowing water—make it ideal for renewable energy projects. However, the country urgently needs catalytic funding to kick-start these initiatives.
The King’s mission is underscored by the nation’s vulnerability to climate change. A devastating drought last year destroyed crops and livestock, prompting a national emergency declaration.
“This is one of the glaring impacts of climate change,” King Letsie said.
Davos: A Platform for Global Engagement
In Davos, King Letsie III is meeting with key stakeholders, including mining giant Anglo American, a Danish wind energy company, and the presidents of South Africa and Botswana.
The King remains optimistic about the international community’s shift away from fossil fuels toward renewable energy.
“The mood in the international community is to move away from fossil fuels, into renewable energy,” he said.
Lesotho’s Renewable Energy Potential
With partnerships already established with Chinese firms for solar energy production, Lesotho is poised to become a renewable energy hub. The ultimate goal is to export clean energy to South Africa and other neighboring countries, driving regional transformation.
King Letsie’s advocacy at Davos underscores Lesotho’s readiness to contribute to the global energy transition while addressing its domestic economic challenges.
Lesotho’s green energy journey offers a compelling opportunity for global investors to support sustainable development in Africa while contributing to the fight against climate change.
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