Maseru, Feb.27-- As many African countries remain overwhelmed following the withdrawal of support on a number of the United States funded programs, the Prime Minister Mr. Ntsokoane Matekane said that it is time for Lesotho to gain its independence.

In his remarks, Mr. Matekane said that Lesotho holds great potential in production in fields such as agriculture which needs to be nurtured for it to be successful towards the improvement of the economy, food security as well as job creation to mention but a few.

He indicated that in the 2025/26 financial year, the government has allocated funds which are aimed at supporting projects which are aimed at development projects for the well-being of the nation.

He also stated that this is also a good time for the country to explore its other potentials which will ensure that it does not depend on aid.

The United States (US) suspension of foreign aid assistance is likely to put more than 20 million lives of people living with HIV globally at risk.

The Donald Trump administration issued an executive order on January 20 that instructed for
a halt on disbursement of foreign assistance funding for at least 90 days, with no assurance of
continuing after the suspension period.

This includes the US President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) program, which is in operation in 54 countries, mostly in Africa, Lesotho included.