In a significant stride towards job creation and economic growth in Lesotho, the Lesotho National Development Corporation (LNDC) and New Epoch Garment Manufacturing officially launched the company’s second factory in Maputsoe, Ha Nyenye, today. Established in 2003 and primarily serving the South African market, New Epoch currently employs 375 workers and has expanded operations to create an additional 250 jobs for Basotho.
At the launch event, Mrs. Huilan Wang, the company’s Managing Director, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the government of Lesotho and the LNDC for their unwavering support over the past 22 years. “Expanding our business has always been a key part of my vision, and seeing it fulfilled today fills me with immense joy and pride,” she said. She emphasized that the creation of 250 new jobs aligns with her goal of fostering sustainable livelihoods for Basotho, a vision shared with the government.
“We are thrilled to contribute to the local economy, fostering growth and development in this wonderful community,” Mrs. Wang added. She also credited her team’s dedication, hard work, and passion for making this expansion possible, stating that the accomplishment reflects a shared commitment to progress.
The Minister of Trade, Mr. Mokhethi Shelile, called on factory workers to safeguard their jobs by remaining focused and avoiding political disruptions. “Politicians often take advantage of factory workers during conflicts, but I urge you to protect your livelihoods and avoid jeopardizing your employment,” he stated.
Representing LNDC, Mrs. Puseletso Makhakhe highlighted the organization’s commitment to its retention and expansion strategy, which is key to empowering Basotho and fostering economic growth. She reiterated that initiatives like this contribute significantly to fulfilling LNDC’s mandate of improving livelihoods.
Thabang Mohlahloe, one of the factory’s employees, expressed his excitement about the expansion. “This is a proud moment for all of us. The creation of more jobs is a blessing for our community,” he said. Mohlahloe also commended his fellow workers for their dedication, which has ensured the smooth operation of the company. He extended gratitude to Mrs. Wang for choosing Lesotho as the home for her business, noting that firms like New Epoch play a crucial role in addressing the country’s high unemployment rate and driving economic development.
The launch of the second New Epoch factory underscores Lesotho’s potential as a hub for manufacturing and export-driven industries. With strategic support from LNDC and committed investors like Mrs. Wang, the nation continues to make strides toward economic transformation and improved livelihoods for its people.
