Lesotho has declared a two-year national state of disaster in response to soaring unemployment, triggered by a sharp economic blow from US-imposed tariffs.
In April, former US President Donald Trump reinstated a 50% tariff on goods from Lesotho, a move that has devastated the country’s textile industry—one of its biggest employers.
Deputy Prime Minister Nthomeng Majara announced the emergency measure, noting the unemployment rate has now hit 30%, with thousands losing their jobs in recent months.
The state of disaster will remain in effect until June 30, 2027, allowing the government to take urgent action to cushion the economic shock and prevent further social fallout.