LESOTHO ADVANCES PLANS FOR OVERSEAS LABOUR EXPORT

The government of Lesotho has made significant progress in implementing plans to export labour to international markets with bilateral agreements already reached with several countries.

In an interview with the Agency, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mr. Ts’eliso Mokhosi said Lesotho and Qatar have concluded bilateral agreements through their respective Ministries of Labour with only the involvement of recruitment agencies still outstanding and such is expected to be done in June.

Mr. Mokhosi further revealed that Lesotho has also reached agreements with the United Arab Emirates noting that the two countries are now awaiting cabinet approvals before implementation can proceed.

He added that discussions with Saudi Arabia are at an advanced stage with both countries working towards agreements that will facilitate the export of skilled Basotho workers in fields such as crafts, carpentry, tourism, Information Technology (IT), heavy-duty driving, security services and engineering.

Addressing concerns among Basotho regarding the safety of international recruitment, Mr. Mokhosi assured the public that measures are being put in place to prevent human trafficking and any form of exploitation.

He said that the countries involved are committed to ensuring the safety of workers during travel and settlement processes.

He therefore urged Basotho to avoid engaging with unverified international job offers without first consulting the Ministry of Labour and Employment to confirm the authenticity of such opportunities.

Source: Lesotho News Agency [LENA]