Maqelepo impressed by high-end fashion at Presitex

Seithati Motšoeneng

MINISTER of Trade, Industry and Business Development, Motlatsi Maqelepo, has expressed admiration for the high-end fashion produced at Presitex Enterprises, a textile factory based in Ha Thetsane, Maseru.

Mr Maqelepo said he was impressed by the factory’s ability to produce high-quality fashion garments from scratch, encompassing every stage of production, from initial design to the finished product ready for the market.

During his tour of the facility on Thursday, the Minister visited the various departments, including design, cutting and sewing, where he witnessed the processes involved in transforming raw materials into finished garments.

He said he had never encountered a factory that produces high-end fashion on such a comprehensive scale, with the entire process carried out under one roof.

Mr Maqelepo commended the factory’s work, noting its potential to contribute to the growth of Lesotho’s textile and apparel industry by moving beyond conventional garment manufacturing towards value-added, high-quality fashion production.

“What I am experiencing today and the exposure I have received is totally different. The factory is huge and what happens inside is pure magic. I have seen a lot of departments that I have never seen before, like the washing room and the styling that you do,” Mr Maqelepo said.

“I must say, we all know from your garments and apparel that you do a great job. It is a no-brainer that manufacturing takes up a big part of macroeconomics. As alluded to before, the textile industry plays a huge role in this country and I think following today’s visit, my perspective has changed again.”

He further indicated that his ministry would work closely with the operators of Presitex Enterprises to facilitate training opportunities for Basotho, equipping them with the skills and expertise needed to participate in the production of high-end fashion.

“We really need to build on the credibility of Lesotho’s textile industry around the globe to forge partnerships like we have started today. From the government’s perspective, I am pleased to work with you and to understand all the challenges.

“What makes me even happier is that the employees I have met appear happy. They are valuable assets to the company, and I can see that aspect has been well handled.

“As a country, if there has ever been a time that we doubted the magnitude of the factories in terms of textile and apparel, by now we must appreciate the sector. The whole economy, directly and indirectly, is basically reliant on this.”

The proposed collaboration is expected to help develop local skills, strengthen the country’s fashion and textile capabilities, and create opportunities for Basotho to gain practical experience in the different stages of garment production.

The factory’s management welcomed Mr Maqelepo’s proposal, affirming their determination to help Basotho in the textile and fashion industry. They also stated that they had already been assisting other Basotho upcoming apparel producers such as Iconics Clothing.