Neo Fekefeke’s M and N Enterprise aims to reshape Lesotho’s clothing landscape, challenging the prevalence of foreign-owned factories and looking to create job opportunities.

Neo Fekefeke, a businessman from Maputsoe, is making strides in Lesotho’s clothing industry by establishing a locally owned apparel factory aimed at producing high-quality garments. His initiative marks a significant departure from the traditional dominance of Chinese-owned factories which have long shaped the textile sector in the country. In an interview with The Reporter Lesotho’s ‘Mantšali Phakoana, Fekefeke elaborated on his vision for M and N Enterprise and the obstacles he has faced in a market heavily influenced by foreign competition.

Fekefeke articulated his motivation for launching the factory by highlighting the challenges posed by the prevalence of Chinese businesses within Lesotho’s textile industry. “I saw this as a challenge rather than a deterrent. I was inspired by the need for local ownership and control of the industry,” he stated. He emphasized the rich history of textile production in Lesotho and the crucial role local entrepreneurs must play in its future. He intends not only to introduce innovative products to the market but to demonstrate that a Lesotho-based company can successfully compete with larger, established players.

Prior to launching the factory, Fekefeke spent seven years in the textile sector, focusing on sewing and branding. This experience in production, customer relations, and quality control provided a solid foundation for scaling up operations. He credited his involvement in the Competitiveness and Financial Inclusion (CAFI) Project, where he participated in a six-month training program through Johanne Industrials, for equipping him with essential insights into industrial production, business management, and financial planning.

The official establishment of the factory took place in mid-December 2024, with a grand opening on January 31, 2025. One of the initial hurdles faced by Fekefeke and his team was securing their first major client, resulting in a setback when they did not receive an order. However, as he remarked, this disappointment became a turning point. “That setback pushed us to improve our quality, refine our production processes, and ensure that we met industry standards,” he said. Their perseverance led to securing their first significant order on February 26, 2025.

Since inception, M and N Enterprise has invested over R500,000 into the business, allocated towards the acquisition of industrial sewing and embroidery machines, as well as other essential equipment for the factory. Ongoing operational costs such as wages, electricity, and materials continue to underscore the importance of financial support for small businesses in Lesotho.

Fekefeke expressed that addressing unemployment is paramount for the country’s development, viewing M and N Enterprise as part of a broader solution. Currently, the factory employs over 60 workers, primarily sourced from local communities. With plans for increased production, he anticipates expanding job opportunities and providing training in industrial sewing and embroidery to enhance workers’ skills.

The businessman also noted the crucial role government policies could play in nurturing local industries. He remarked that while setting up a factory presents challenges, acquiring the necessary machinery for diverse garment production is particularly daunting due to the high costs associated with specialized machines. He asserted that a larger facility would improve efficiency, boost production capacity, and streamline logistics related to handling raw materials and finished products.

Looking towards the future, Fekefeke outlined ambitions for expansion. These include increasing production capacity, hiring more employees, and securing a larger manufacturing space. Establishing partnerships with government entities, large retailers, and educational institutions for long-term contracts is also a priority, alongside exploring export opportunities within the region.

Despite the existing challenges, Fekefeke believes that with adequate governmental and private sector support, Lesotho can cultivate successful local industries. “If we want to see sustainable growth in Lesotho’s textile industry,” he asserted, “local businesses like ours need access to financial aid, bigger spaces, and reliable infrastructure.”

As M and N Enterprise continues to develop, it stands to not only contribute to employment but also to aid in establishing Lesotho as a vital player in the regional textile market.

Source: Noah Wire Services