The Competitiveness and Financial Inclusion Programme (CAFI) Entrepreneurship Hub and Seed Financing Facility has commenced its onboarding session for the fifth cycle of its incubation programme.
The six-month programme, which began on Friday, brings together 60 selected enterprises identified as the most innovative and promising during competitive pitch sessions held on February 19, 2026.
According to organisers, the chosen startups stood out for their bold ideas and strong growth potential. They will now receive structured support through six dedicated Enterprise Support Organisations, aimed at strengthening their capacity and improving sustainability.
Speaking at the onboarding session, CAFI Director of Implementation, ’MakaliNathane, described the initiative as a strategic intervention designed to enhance business development services and broaden access to finance, particularly for youth and women entrepreneurs.
She said the programme is structured to support businesses across their entire lifecycle — from start-up and growth to eventual exit — ensuring that entrepreneurs are equipped with the necessary tools to navigate challenges at each stage.
“The programme prioritises the development of a robust entrepreneurship ecosystem by enhancing skills, improving access to finance, and fostering integration with regional markets,” Nathane noted.
She added that by strengthening institutional support and linking entrepreneurs to wider markets, the initiative aims to position local enterprises for long-term competitiveness.
The CAFI Entrepreneurship Hub and Seed Financing Facility continues to play a key role in promoting innovation and financial inclusion, with each incubation cycle building on efforts to nurture a new generation of Basotho entrepreneurs.
