Theko Tlebere
As the Christmas season approaches, this is a time of rest and celebration for many Basotho, inclusive of Lesotho’s leadership, including judges, ministers, and parliamentarians. Many have already made plans on how they spent their well-deserved break. This period typically sees a slowdown in work as the country collectively reflects on the past year. However, amidst the festive atmosphere, we must not overlook a critical issue: youth unemployment. The Christmas season, which commemorates the birth of Jesus, holds profound significance for both the Christian faith and those of us living and struggling in this beautiful country. As we close the year, I intentionally decided to close it off by appealing to all leadership in Lesotho, by urging them to remain mindful of the pressing crisis of high youth unemployment.
Since I will not be able to celebrate Christmas the way I am used to this year, I decided to use my pastoral inner self to make a reflection on one of the most painful realities we are all facing in Lesotho as young people. In an era where youth unemployment is an urgent challenge, it’s easy for leaders to become absorbed in the festivities and enjoy their hard-earned respite. Yet, as we celebrate the joy of Christmas, we must also contemplate the future of our nation and the responsibilities that come with leadership. The birth of Jesus symbolises hope, renewal, and the promise of better days ahead, serving as a reminder that Lesotho’s future rests in the hands of its youth. Unfortunately, that future is jeopardised if we fail to confront the escalating crisis of youth unemployment.
Youth unemployment in Lesotho is a complex crisis affecting not only the young individuals directly impacted but also the nation as a whole. With over 40% of the youth population struggling to secure meaningful employment, the repercussions are widespread. Some youth are not looking forward to the festive season as they should, because they cannot afford to buy clothes for their kids, even those who have something cannot complete the payout for a lay-bye they did two months ago. This crisis stifles economic growth, limits the potential of our young people, and fosters feelings of hopelessness and frustration. For many young Basotho, the dream of a better future seems increasingly unattainable as they encounter barriers to employment opportunities, education, and skills development.
This festive season should remind Prime Minister, Ministers, and parliamentarians of Lesotho of the country’s declaration of youth unemployment as a national crisis, and rightly so. As they do braai or lie on a beach somewhere, they should not forget that our economic future hinges on our ability to create opportunities for young people. However, addressing this crisis requires more than mere words; it demands decisive action. As our leaders take a break to celebrate the holidays, we must remind them that youth unemployment cannot be postponed. This remains and continues to remain an urgent issue needing immediate and sustainable solutions.
Christmas is a time for reflection, generosity, and goodwill. It is a season that celebrates the birth of Jesus, who came to bring hope, justice, and healing to humanity’s brokenness. For many, this time is marked by acts of kindness and the spirit of giving. It is also an opportunity for leaders, particularly those in positions of power, to reflect on their roles and responsibilities in society.
The story of Jesus’ birth offers valuable lessons for the leadership of Lesotho. First, it reminds us that true leadership is about serving others, especially the marginalised and those in need. Jesus, born in a humble stable, did not come from a position of privilege; his message was one of upliftment for the unfortunate and hope for the oppressed. Lesotho’s leaders should draw inspiration from this message and recognise that the youth of our country, many facing unemployment and social exclusion, deserve to be uplifted, just as Jesus sought to uplift the vulnerable.
Second, the birth of Jesus represents a new beginning, an opportunity for transformation and promise. This is the kind of change that the youth of Lesotho need. The high youth unemployment rate among young people is not merely an economic issue; it is a social and moral challenge that necessitates a shift in how our leaders envision the future of this country. Jesus’ birth should inspire us to believe that a new era is possible, one where the youth of Lesotho can secure employment, build careers, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Finally, Christmas embodies hope. Amid challenges and struggles, its message is one of optimism for a better future. This is the hope that our young people desperately require. They must believe that pathways to success and opportunities for growth exist. As leaders enjoy their holidays and take time to relax, they must remember that the nation’s hope rests with the youth. If we do not act decisively to combat youth unemployment, we risk extinguishing that hope.
In many villages, Christmas fosters community gatherings for football tournaments and other recreational events. These gatherings provide not only an opportunity for enjoyment but also a platform for engaging youth in discussions about their future. Imagine if the energy and excitement of these community events were harnessed to address youth unemployment. What if, during a football match or a village gathering, young people could access information about skills development programs, job placement initiatives, or entrepreneurial opportunities? These informal settings can serve as powerful spaces for meaningful conversations, instilling hope and igniting pathways to employment.
As our leaders visit these villages to distribute groceries or provide seasonal support, they can use these moments to engage directly with the youth. Let these tournaments serve not only as celebrations but also as connections to programs that offer real opportunities. Let leaders remind the youth that they are not forgotten, that their struggles are recognised, and that their future is a priority for those in power.
As Christmas approaches, let us celebrate the season of goodwill, hope, and renewal. However, let us also acknowledge that for the youth of Lesotho, the future is uncertain, and the burden of unemployment weighs heavily on their shoulders. As our leaders enjoy their holidays, may they be reminded that the crisis of youth unemployment cannot be ignored! Let the spirit of Christmas inspire them to take bold action in the New Year that will secure a brighter future for the youth of Lesotho.
The birth of Jesus is a message of hope for all, especially the marginalised. In this spirit, Lesotho’s leaders must act. May they return from their holidays with a renewed sense of responsibility, understanding that the nation’s future rests in the hands of its youth. The Future is NOW!
Summary
- As we close the year, I intentionally decided to close it off by appealing to all leadership in Lesotho, by urging them to remain mindful of the pressing crisis of high youth unemployment.
- Since I will not be able to celebrate Christmas the way I am used to this year, I decided to use my pastoral inner self to make a reflection on one of the most painful realities we are all facing in Lesotho as young people.
- The birth of Jesus symbolises hope, renewal, and the promise of better days ahead, serving as a reminder that Lesotho’s future rests in the hands of its youth.
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