SMME Support Network

The SMME Network is implementing a five-year development plan that aims to increase productivity and employment and that will train an estimated 1700 Lesotho nationals annually, whereby it is hoped that this would increase employment by at least double the number (3400 per year). An entrepreneurship programme is in the pipeline, which should benefit the SADC region. Through this programme, the SMME Network will develop a new breed of entrepreneurs who should be skilled to run effective businesses and create additional employment and wealth. To this end, at least 150 BDS providers will be trained to deliver the relevant skills to the private sector. Relevant and appropriate manuals will be developed in the process of training trainers and facilitators. The ongoing training and community health campaigns in Lesotho will be supported by a coordinated plan by the Network to decrease the HIV infection in Lesotho by 5% over the next 5 years. At the same time, the Network's Secretariat will be strengthened to ensure effective and efficient implementation, monitoring and evaluation of programmes offered to the private sector.