Weekly Observer

03/12/2025

Lesotho Moves Forward with Integrated National Financing Strategy

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is partnering with the Government of Lesotho, through the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, to advance the development of the country’s Integrated National Financing Strategy (INFS).

As part of this effort, a stakeholder workshop was recently convened, bringing together government representatives, development partners, and private-sector actors. The workshop created a collaborative space to reflect on Lesotho’s financing priorities, examine how current resources can be utilised more effectively, and identify innovative financing opportunities that can drive sustainable development.

This joint initiative represents a key step in strengthening Lesotho’s national financing architecture and accelerating progress towards long-term development goals.

03/12/2025

Today in Maseru, we marked an important milestone for a country celebrated for its abundance of water. Stakeholders from across the aquaculture and agriculture sectors gathered for the validation of Lesotho’s Aquaculture and Fisheries Framework, a process running from 3–5 December.

This workshop is designed to ensure that the final policy documents align with the National Strategic Development Plan II, respond to regional and international standards, and keep pace with global market trends as aquaculture continues to grow worldwide.

The framework includes four key instruments: the Aquaculture and Fisheries Policy, an Aquaculture Strategy, an Aquatic Animal Health Strategy, and an aquaculture training curriculum. Together, these tools place Lesotho firmly on the path toward commercial aquaculture development, opening new opportunities for jobs, investment, and sustainable food production.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Agriculture, Thabo Mofosi, reflected on the sector’s long-neglected history. He explained how fisheries were initially introduced not as part of agricultural planning but to entertain colonial officers who saw Lesotho’s rivers as ideal for sport fishing. Trout, which is now central to our aquaculture industry, was brought from Natal in the late 1930s by colonial police officers. For nearly 30 years, the government’s fisheries function was essentially a one-person unit, demonstrating how little public support the sector received.

Yet, despite this history, Lesotho has proven what is possible when the right conditions align. Today, the country exports large volumes of trout to international markets, thanks to private-sector investment at Katse Dam. In fact, Lesotho currently ranks first globally in trout production — a remarkable achievement for a landlocked country.

Director of Livestock, Keneuoe Lehloenya, emphasised that aquaculture is one of the most inclusive and competitive agricultural industries, and one of the fastest-growing globally. She noted that Lesotho cannot afford to be left behind.

With these new policy instruments, the nation is taking a bold step forward to unlock the full potential of its water resources and strengthen its position in the global aquaculture space. This is made possible by Ministry of Agriculture Food Security And Nutrition Lesotho, with support from FAO Lesotho, and other stakeholders.

READ MORE: https://weeklyobserver.online/2025/12/03/lesotho-validates-aquaculture-and-fisheries-framework-to-strengthen-a-growing-sector/

29/11/2025

Lesotho Hosts First-Ever DevFest to Boost Local Tech Innovation

Maseru – Today marked a milestone in Lesotho’s technology landscape as young Basotho developers and tech enthusiasts gathered for the country’s first-ever Development Festival, widely known as DevFest. The event brought together local and international developers to strengthen collaboration, inspire innovation, and build a thriving tech community.
Organised by the Google Developer Group (GDG) Lesotho, the festival served as a platform for learning, networking, and showcasing emerging talent. It featured expert speakers from various Google technology fields, giving participants exposure to global best practices and new opportunities within the digital economy.

Speaking at the event, Mafusi Ntsau, President of the GDG Lesotho Chapter, said the festival celebrates both developers and everyday consumers of Google products. She noted that DevFest is held annually between September and December across the world—making Lesotho’s inaugural participation a significant step toward global alignment.
Ntsau emphasised that the event unites experts from different spaces within the Google ecosystem, enabling the local community to explore tools and innovations essential for advancing technology-driven solutions.

GDGs are local tech communities supported by Google. They provide a space where developers, students, tech enthusiasts, start-ups can meet to learn about Google developer tools, share ideas, and build projects. READ MORE:
https://weeklyobserver.online/2025/11/29/lesotho-hosts-first-ever-devfest-to-boost-local-tech-innovation/

13/11/2025

ISOC Strengthens Lesotho’s Digital Trust Through Cybersecurity and AI Workshop

… cybercrimes account for nearly 30 percent of reported crimes in Lesotho
… with a 28 percent rise in scam notifications recorded between 2023 and 2024

The Internet Society (ISOC) held a workshop on digital literacy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI) at Avani Maseru this week. The session brought together legislators, law enforcement officers, and legal practitioners to strengthen digital trust, enhance data protection, and foster national awareness on cybersecurity and AI.

Supported by the Internet Society Foundation, the workshop provided hands-on training in secure digital communication, data protection, and ethical technology use within public institutions. The initiative also aimed to promote inclusivity and transparency in the country’s digital development processes.

Neo Selematsela, a technology expert, described AI as “the synthetic use of creativity” that stimulates human consciousness. He traced its evolution from the 1950s to the present, noting its impact across various sectors. Selematsela outlined two main forms of AI — traditional AI, which processes abstract information, and generative AI, which creates content based on user input.

While highlighting AI’s usefulness, Selematsela cautioned that it can also produce false or misleading information, referred to as “AI hallucinations.” He emphasised the need for ethical and culturally sensitive data inputs to avoid bias and protect vulnerable groups, calling for schools to introduce AI literacy and ethics lessons to guide responsible technology use.

According to Boitumelo Lefaphana, a security engineer, cybercrimes account for nearly 30 percent of reported crimes in Lesotho, with a 28 percent rise in scam notifications recorded between 2023 and 2024. He identified phishing, online scams, and cracked software applications as the main threats exposing users to data theft and financial loss.

Adding to the discussion, Ezekiel Senti from the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) stated that cyber-related crimes continue to evolve rapidly, posing new challenges for law enforcement. He said that the LMPS faces increasing cases of cyberbullying, online fraud, and fake investment scams, where criminals impersonate high-profile figures such as the King or the Prime Minister to deceive the public.

Senti further highlighted that cyberstalking and online car scams have become common, urging the public to be vigilant and protect personal information. He concluded by stressing the need for stronger data protection systems and collaborative efforts between institutions to secure Lesotho’s digital environment. READ MORE: https://weeklyobserver.online/2025/11/13/isoc-and-lca-strengthen-lesothos-digital-trust-through-cybersecurity-and-ai-workshop/

01/11/2025

Legal Symposium Urges Lesotho to Innovate and Lead in the Digital Era Vodacom Lesotho on Thursday hosted the Legal Symposium on Law and Technology in Maseru under the theme “Leading the Future – Our Shared Role in Legal Evolution.” The event brought together key figures from Lesotho’s legal and technology sectors to explore the country’s role in shaping a responsive and inclusive digital future.

Delivering the keynote address, Vodacom Lesotho Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mohale Ralebitso challenged participants to embrace authenticity and innovation within their local contexts.

He urged legal practitioners and policymakers to become architects of Lesotho’s digital future, emphasising that while speed in innovation is important, direction and accountability are equally crucial. “A powerful engine needs brakes,” he remarked, stressing the importance of thoughtful regulation in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and intellectual property. Ralebitso further called for inclusive legal frameworks that protect vulnerable populations and reflect Lesotho’s social and economic realities. He underscored the need for academic reform and digital literacy to prepare future legal professionals for the demands of a modern, technology-driven world. Importantly, he emphasised that transformation must be inclusive, of quality, and rooted in purpose, ensuring that no one — particularly rural communities — is left behind.

Speaking at the same event, the President of the Law Society of Lesotho, Lintle Tuke, reflected on the country’s longstanding traditions of conflict resolution, noting that Basotho practiced Khotla long before modern Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) systems were introduced. He announced that the Law Society will soon sign a Memorandum of Understandinghttps://weeklyobserver.online/2025/11/01/legal-symposium-urges-lesotho-to-innovate-and-lead-in-the-digital-era/

01/11/2025

African Writers Unite in Maseru to Celebrate and Empower Creativity

At the ongoing Africa Writers Conference hosted in Maseru, writers from Zambia, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Ghana, and other neighbouring countries have come together to share creative ideas and promote best practices in the literary world.
The conference, which began on October 27 and concludes tomorrow, November 2, 2025, is held under the theme “Celebrating African Narratives: Uniting Cultures and Empowering Creatives.”

Among today’s keynote speakers was Matšeliso Lesupi, celebrated author of Bophelo Ba Lillo and Leholimo la Phetloa, among other works. In her address, Lesupi congratulated fellow writers for their commitment to storytelling, noting that “they have already won because they have started writing — a true reflection that unity is strength.”
She urged writers to preserve Africa’s heritage by celebrating unity, culture, and creativity. “The role of literature,” she said, “is to influence, educate, and entertain. It is crucial for transferring knowledge, wisdom, and building curiosity.”

Lesupi further challenged young writers to make their work relevant and accessible within the education system, emphasizing the need for consistent creativity and cultural representation through writing.
The conference also explored themes of self-discovery, encouraging writers to find their unique voices and identities, with mentors serving as guides on that journey.

30/10/2025

Happening Now!
Vodacom Lesotho is hosting the Legal Symposium on Law and Technology in Maseru, under the theme “Leading the Future – Our Shared Role in Legal Evolution.”

30/10/2025

Legal Symposium Sparks Call for Innovation and Identity in Law and Technology

Vodacom Lesotho today hosted the Legal Symposium on Law and Technology in Maseru under the theme “Leading the Future – Our Shared Role in Legal Evolution.” The event brought together key players from Lesotho’s legal and technology sectors to explore the country’s role in shaping a responsive and inclusive digital future.

Delivering the keynote address, Vodacom Lesotho CEO Mr. Mohale Ralebitso challenged participants to embrace authenticity and innovation within their local contexts. Quoting American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson, he said, “Envy is ignorance, imitation is suicide.”
Ralebitso explained that envy blinds individuals to their own potential, while imitation erases their uniqueness — a reminder especially relevant to smaller nations like Lesotho, where people often underestimate their ability to drive change and design home-grown solutions.

He urged legal practitioners and policymakers to become architects of Lesotho’s digital future, emphasizing that while speed in innovation is important, direction and accountability are equally crucial. “A powerful engine needs brakes,” he remarked, stressing the importance of regulation and thoughtful progress in fields such as artificial intelligence and intellectual property.

Ralebitso further called for inclusive legal frameworks that protect vulnerable populations and reflect Lesotho’s realities. He underscored the need for academic reform and digital literacy to ensure that future legal professionals are equipped for the demands of a modern, technology-driven world.

Importantly, he warned that the transformation must be inclusive, of quality, and rooted in purpose — ensuring that rural communities and those without financial means are not left behind.
The symposium set the stage for deeper national reflection on how to leverage legal evolution for economic growth, with Ralebitso cautioning that modern colonisation will not come with guns, but through systems and technologies. Only those prepared and informed will thrive.

30/10/2025

Lesotho Coin (LSCoin): The Gateway to Lesotho’s Digital Economy

Lesotho is stepping boldly into the future. From the heart of the Mountain Kingdom emerges Lesotho Coin — a symbol of ambition, innovation, and financial independence. Designed to power Lesotho’s digital transformation, LSCoin is more than a cryptocurrency; it is a movement that aims to redefine how Basotho connect with the modern economy.

Across the world, blockchain technology is reshaping industries, empowering individuals, and unlocking new opportunities. For Lesotho, LSCoin represents a national leap into this digital frontier — a homegrown initiative with a global vision. It seeks to create an inclusive financial system where everyone, from local entrepreneurs to rural communities, can participate in and benefit from the digital economy.

At its core, LSCoin champions accessibility and inclusion. It aims to make digital transactions seamless and transparent while encouraging innovation across different sectors. The vision is clear: a connected Lesotho where digital currency becomes a bridge between traditional commerce and tomorrow’s digital markets.

But beyond its technology lies something far more powerful — purpose. LSCoin embodies the resilience and forward-thinking spirit of the Basotho people. It speaks to a generation ready to embrace new tools for progress, to unlock economic potential, and to take Lesotho’s place in the global conversation about digital finance.

As adoption grows and awareness spreads, LSCoin is setting the stage for new possibilities. Imagine borderless trade for small businesses, faster remittances for families, digital investments for youth, and easier access to global markets. This is the promise at the heart of LSCoin — a future where opportunity flows freely and technology connects everyone.

Lesotho’s journey toward a digital economy has officially begun, and LSCoin stands at the center of it. The gateway is open, inviting citizens, innovators, and investors to be part of a national transformation.
Lesotho Coin (LSCoin): Empowering Lesotho, Connecting Africa, and Shaping a Smarter Digital Future.

Lesotho is stepping boldly into the future. From the heart of the Mountain Kingdom emerges Lesotho Coin — a symbol

28/10/2025

Today marks the official activation of the upcoming Annual Member Engagement Forum 2025 (AMEF 2025)

Hosted by the Public Officers’ Defined Contribution Pension Fund (PODCPF), this year’s Forum is themed “Mmoho Katlehisong ea Bokamoso ba Hau” (Together in the Success of Your Future) — highlighting the shared mission of securing Members’ retirement futures through collaboration and trust.
Set for Wednesday, 5 November 2025, AMEF 2025 strengthens the Fund’s unwavering commitment to its core objectives of accountability and transparency, achieved through active stakeholder engagement with Members, Government representatives, and partners.

With a membership base of over 37,000 active public officers from the Teaching Service, Public Service, Local Government, and Disciplined Forces, the Forum ensures inclusivity through a hybrid format — combining in-person and virtual participation.

The event will be streamed live for FREE on the Fund’s website (www.pensionfund.org.ls), as well as via Microsoft Teams, Facebook Live, and Radio Lesotho, giving every Member an equal opportunity to take part and engage.

18/10/2025

Shaping Futures Through Sport: Lesotho Concludes Regional Forum on Quality Physical Education

Today marks the end of a Sub-Regional Forum on Quality Physical Education, bringing together policymakers, educators, and sports leaders from across the region. The event, which began on October 16, hosted in Lesotho, is organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Training, the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5, and UNESCO.

The discussions focus on the transformative role of quality physical education and sport in shaping the region’s future. Minister of Education, Professor Ntoi Rapapa, underscored the importance of integrating physical education into national education systems, aligning with UNESCO’s global priorities and the AU Sport Council’s development goals. About ten countries gathered in this forum.

He called for increased investment in sports from the grassroots level, emphasizing the need for innovative financing models to improve sports infrastructure and facilities. The Minister also highlighted the role of physical education in addressing social challenges such as substance abuse, excessive social media use, and the breakdown of family structures — all of which threaten youth wellbeing.

The Regional Director and Representative for the UNESCO Regional Office for Southern Africa, Dr. Nisha, noted that the forum comes at a time when children are becoming increasingly inactive. She stressed that physical education lays the foundation for an inclusive and quality life.
According to UNESCO’s 2024 Global Report on Education, while 97% of countries include physical education in their curriculum, only 20% implement it in ways that meet the standards of quality, equity, and inclusion.
UNESCO
Ministry of Education and Training - Lesotho
Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture
https://weeklyobserver.online/2025/10/17/lesotho-hosts-forum-on-quality-physical-education/

16/10/2025

Lesotho Faces Worsening Food Insecurity as Lean Season Approaches

Lesotho is bracing for a sharp rise in food insecurity, with new figures showing that more than 334,000 people—about 22 percent of the rural population—will struggle to meet their basic food needs between October 2025 and March 2026.

According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, released on October 9, at least 258,000 people were already in “Crisis” (IPC Phase 3) between May and September this year. The situation is expected to worsen during the lean season, when most households run out of their own produce and rely heavily on food purchases.

Maseru, Mafeteng, and Mohale’s Hoek are currently the hardest-hit districts, but projections show that by early 2026, nine out of ten districts will fall into the Crisis category, with only Leribe remaining one step lower at “Stressed” (IPC Phase 2).

The report identifies several key drivers of this looming crisis. Late rains followed by dry spells and soaring temperatures led to widespread crop failure during the 2024/25 season. National maize production dropped by 19 percent compared to the previous year, compounding already high food and fuel prices. Outbreaks of livestock disease further eroded rural livelihoods.

“Food is available in the markets, but affordability is the real challenge,” the IPC analysis notes. “Poorer households are already employing negative coping strategies, such as selling livestock or skipping meals.”
READ MORE: https://weeklyobserver.online/2025/10/15/lesotho-faces-worsening-food-insecurity-as-lean-season-approaches/