AGP Executive Report

Lesotho–UAE trade push: Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane met Dubai Chambers in Johannesburg to strengthen investment ties, pointing to Dubai’s logistics, infrastructure and digital-economy expertise and calling for a Dubai–Lesotho business forum. Mega energy deal: Convalt Energy signed a $6.2bn (98bn maloti) Kobong agreement with Lesotho’s Ministry of Energy for a 1,200MW hydropower plant plus an AI data centre in Mokhotlong—aimed at energy independence and new digital capacity. Security drive: PM Matekane pledged 500 more recruits for the Lesotho Defence Force and warned of drug trafficking and substance abuse, urging discipline and action against dealers. Digital inclusion: Maseru’s Digital Innovators Summit urged Basotho youth to embrace technology and discussed digitising water systems with EU support. Community connectivity: Senekane Primary School received a telecom tower and a new kitchen, improving access to information and mobile money. Cross-border disruption: Heavy snow forced the closure of Sani Pass and travellers were advised to delay trips while disaster teams assess storm damage in KwaZulu-Natal. Sports (regional): Lesotho’s national teams featured in friendlies and tournament build-ups, including Lesotho vs Kenya results and Zambia’s Four Nations action involving the Copper Queens.

Sports—Lesotho-Kenya football: Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy says Kenya must respond after a 1-1 draw with Lesotho, blaming a second-half drop in game management and admitting his own tactical changes disrupted the defence. Women’s football—Starlets in Zambia: Harambee Starlets face hosts Zambia in the FIFA Four Nations Tournament in Ndola, with coach Beldine Odemba treating the matches as crucial Wafcon preparation after earlier results against India and Australia. Energy & tech—Lesotho’s big deal: Lesotho signed a binding agreement with Convalt Energy for the Kobong Hydropower and AI data centre project worth about $6.2bn, aiming to boost energy independence and create digital infrastructure. Security—LDF recruitment drive: Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane pledged 500 more LDF recruits and warned of the threat posed by drug trafficking and substance abuse. Connectivity—Senekane Primary gets upgrades: A new telecoms tower and kitchen were handed over in Ha Senekane to improve communication and education support. Weather—Sani Pass closed: Heavy snow has shut Sani Pass, with travellers urged to delay trips until conditions are safe. Health—winter illness watch: South Africa confirmed a winter COVID-19 case, while Lesotho continues investigating influenza-like illness reports in multiple districts.

Cross-border security and migrant violence: Mozambique says hundreds of its citizens are returning home after deadly anti-foreigner unrest in South Africa, while Ghana and Nigeria move to repatriate nationals. Regional diplomacy: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has rejected claims of inherent xenophobia, calling for “African solutions” through jobs, growth and cooperation. Lesotho angle: Lesotho, Kenya and Zimbabwe have urged their citizens to exercise caution, as South African police warn anti-immigration groups against taking the law into their own hands. Winter disruption: Heavy snow has forced the closure of Sani Pass, with travellers urged to delay trips until the route is declared safe. Lesotho development: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn hydropower and AI data centre deal (Project Kobong) aimed at boosting energy independence and digital infrastructure. Local security push: Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane pledged 500 more LDF recruits and vowed action against drug dealers. Public health watch: South Africa confirmed its first winter COVID-19 case; Lesotho is investigating influenza-like illness reports in multiple districts.

Winter Weather Disruption: Snow has blanketed Lesotho’s Sani Pass and the border route has been closed due to hazardous conditions, with travellers urged to postpone journeys until authorities declare it safe. Emergency Rescue: In Botha-Bothe, “Mr Lifesaver” Clifford Tar rescued a critically ill pregnant woman and another patient after an ambulance got stuck in snow at Moteng Pass. Public Finance & Accountability: Lesotho’s Ministry of Finance will start training on asset registration from June 15, responding to Auditor General concerns that government assets are not fully captured on registers. Justice in Court: The High Court heard testimony in a treason trial involving alleged 2014 police station attacks, including claims some officers fled to South Africa. Parliamentary Updates: The Senate adjourned sine die for winter recess, while it also adopted the Children’s Protection and Welfare (Amendment) Bill to strengthen safeguards for vulnerable children. GBV Coordination Push: Gender officials renewed calls to revive Lesotho’s Anti-GBV Coordination Forum and improve stakeholder collaboration. Local Court Matters: Bail was granted to Semphetenyane residents linked to tyre-burning protests over poor road conditions. Sports (Regional): Lesotho’s national team is set to face Kenya in an international friendly as regional squads fine-tune preparations for upcoming tournaments.

Cybersecurity & Civilians: Lesotho urged greater African participation in shaping global cyber security rules, stressing International Humanitarian Law and protection of civilians and essential services during armed conflict. GBV Coordination: Lesotho called for reviving the Anti-GBV Coordination Forum to improve prevention, response and survivor support through better stakeholder cooperation. Parliament & Child Protection: The Senate adjourned sine die for winter recess, and adopted the Children’s Protection and Welfare (Amendment) Bill to strengthen safeguards for vulnerable children. Public Finance Accountability: The Ministry of Finance will train ministries on asset registration from June 15 after Auditor General concerns that government assets are not fully captured on registers. Court Developments: In Maseru, bail was granted to Semphetenyane residents linked to tyre-burning protests over poor roads; in Botha-Bothe, a man was fined or jailed for housebreaking. Regional Tensions: South Africa faced renewed anti-migrant violence; Mozambique said five Mozambicans were killed, while South African police warned groups against taking the law into their own hands. Travel Disruption: Sani Pass was closed due to heavy snowfall and hazardous conditions. Sports: Lesotho’s national team named a starting XI for the friendly vs Kenya as World Cup warmups and preparations continue across the region.

Lesotho Highlands Water Project Complaint: Villagers in Mokhotlong have filed a formal complaint against the African Development Bank, alleging the Lesotho Highlands Water Project damaged homes, contaminated water sources and disrupted farming, with claims of inadequate compensation and poor consultation. Four Nations Build-up (Women’s Football): Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors and Zambia’s Copper Queens are gearing up for the Four Nations Tournament in Ndola, with Lesotho and Kenya also involved, as coaches and captains stress tough matches ahead of WAFCON. Kenya vs Lesotho Friendlies (Men’s Football): Harambee Stars face Lesotho in Pretoria, but preparations have been hit by hotel and payment disputes that left players stranded before training. Court in Lesotho: A Lesotho national has received life imprisonment in South Africa for brutal Komani farm murders, also convicted for entering and remaining without valid documentation. Disaster Preparedness (Lesotho): Mokhotlong DDMT members are training in disaster risk reduction to improve response and planning, with a push to share forecasts and impacts with communities. Gender Equality in Sport (SADC): ANOCA Zone VI’s gender equality and diversity forum is underway in Victoria Falls, bringing together Olympic bodies from across the region. Immigration Tensions in the Region: South Africa’s Ramaphosa called for tougher action on illegal migration while warning against xenophobia and violence, as several countries issued travel cautions for their citizens.

Xenophobia Fallout in South Africa: Namibia urged its citizens to stay vigilant after anti-migrant unrest and vigilante checks, with consular help available in Pretoria and Cape Town; Mozambique also accused South Africa of failing to protect its citizens after reports of Mozambicans killed in Mossel Bay, while SA police confirmed two deaths and said investigations are ongoing. Lesotho Weather Communication: In Mohale’s Hoek, Lesotho Meteorological Services pushed for media involvement in Impact-Based Forecasting so communities get timely, practical disaster-prep guidance. Disaster Risk Reduction Training: Mokhotlong’s District Disaster Management Team began a DRR training with DMA support and World Vision, focused on better response to protect lives and property. Lesotho Dairy Push: Government and dairy stakeholders in Maseru called for stronger public-private collaboration to revive the sector, citing underused infrastructure, low milk output and heavy import reliance. Football—Kenya vs Lesotho Logistics: Harambee Stars faced hotel and payment disputes in Pretoria, leaving players stranded before friendlies; meanwhile Kenya coach Benni McCarthy named new faces for the June window. High Court Update: A murder case involving four police officers over the death of Constable Mokalekale Khetheng was postponed after a defence lawyer fell ill, with a new hearing set for June 30.

Lesotho in the spotlight at SADC: Stanley Ndara has been reappointed to chair the SADC Regional Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance Centre board in Maputo, as the region pushes harder against illegal fishing and moves to roll out a regional register of fishing vessels. Winter safety in Maseru: Lesotho Meteorological Services and the Disaster Management Authority warn of snowfall from Wednesday night and severe cold Thursday to Friday, urging residents to avoid risky travel and protect livestock. Court update on NUL leadership: The Court of Appeal ordered a stay of High Court proceedings and paused the recruitment and appointment process for the National University of Lesotho vice-chancellor while appeals are finalized. Home Affairs outreach: The Ministry of Home Affairs and Police is visiting elderly people and persons with disabilities to help them get National Identity Cards, so they can access services like social protection and healthcare. Queen’s 50th birthday celebrations: Maseru marked Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso’s golden milestone with a special Holy Mass and widespread public tributes. Regional tensions over migrants: Mozambique says Mozambicans were killed in xenophobic attacks in South Africa’s Mossel Bay, while South African police confirm only two deaths linked to assaults, as repatriations continue. Sports and Lesotho ties: Kenya’s Starlets and Harambee Stars face Lesotho in June friendlies and a Four Nations tournament, with squad changes and permit/work issues affecting availability.

National Identity Access: Lesotho’s Home Affairs and Police stepped up outreach with house visits to elderly people and persons with disabilities to help them get National Identity Cards, so they can access services like social protection, banking, healthcare and voter registration. Court Watch (NUL): The Court of Appeal ordered a stay of High Court proceedings in a challenge to the National University of Lesotho vice-chancellor appointment, and also halted the recruitment and appointment process pending the substantive appeal. Queen’s Golden Birthday: Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso marked her 50th birthday today, with public tributes and thanksgiving messages highlighting her role as a symbol of service and leadership. Local Infrastructure: The Minister of Public Works and Transport visited the Semphetenyane road and promised follow-up action after residents complained progress has been slow due to budget constraints and earlier water-pipe issues. Digital Skills for Entrepreneurs: Sebabatso alumni gathered at American Corner Maseru for a three-day e-commerce and AI-powered marketing training to help small businesses grow beyond Lesotho and reach wider markets. Regional Mobility Rules: South Africa’s SARS introduced a new online traveller declaration system from 1 June, and foreign-registered vehicles must be declared and issued with a Temporary Import Permit, affecting travellers from Lesotho and other neighbours.

World Cup Visa Chaos (South Africa): South Africa’s Bafana Bafana finally departed for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday after a visa “debacle” delayed their charter by a day; Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie said the fault was on South Africa’s side and demanded accountability, while SAFA said visas were resolved for players but assistant coach Helman Mkhalele and other staff faced US travel issues. Border Control Update (Lesotho–SA): SARS rolled out a Foreign Vehicle Declaration System, requiring foreign-registered vehicles (including Lesotho plates) to be declared online or at border posts from 1 June, with a Temporary Import Permit generated through the system. Lesotho Highlands Project (LHWP): Lesotho and South Africa pushed Phase II forward with the launch of a second Tunnel Boring Machine at Polihali, reinforcing the project’s role in water security, power and regional cooperation. Local Protest (Maseru): Residents of Semphetenyane blocked roads and burned tyres over worsening road conditions, accusing officials of overstating rehabilitation progress. Youth Training in Maseru: Sebabatso Youth Training was launched in Maseru, using American Corner AI tools to help participants translate services for new markets and support job creation. Gender & Media (Lesotho): UNFPA trained Lesotho journalists on ethical, survivor-centred reporting to better tackle gender-based violence. SADC Fisheries: Stanley Ndara was reappointed to lead the SADC regional fisheries monitoring body, with ministers also urging member states to pay outstanding contributions.

Border & Trade: South Africa’s SARS has rolled out a new Traveller Declaration System from 1 June 2026, requiring travellers to submit an online customs declaration and foreign-registered vehicles to be declared at ports of entry, with Temporary Import Permits issued for six months. World Cup Fallout: Bafana Bafana’s World Cup departure was delayed after visa problems left some players and staff without US clearance; Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie called it an “embarrassing” “debacle” as the squad finally set off Monday, with assistant coach and other key staff still awaiting documents. Regional Fisheries: SADC ministers reappointed Stanley Ndara to chair the SADC Regional Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre, based in Maputo, to keep pressure on illegal fishing. Maseru Youth & Jobs: Sebabatso Youth Training was launched in Maseru, using American Corner AI tools to help young entrepreneurs reach new markets, with officials citing hundreds of jobs already created. Road Protest in Semphetenyane: Residents blocked roads and burned tyres over alleged poor road conditions, accusing local leaders of overstating rehabilitation work. Lesotho Energy Plans: LHDA seeks consultants for a floating solar feasibility study on Katse and Mohale reservoirs, aiming to cut reliance on electricity imports. Gender-Sensitive Census: The People’s Matrix welcomed expanded options for gender diverse people in Lesotho’s census, while calling for better training for enumerators.

World Cup Fallout: South Africa’s Bafana Bafana departure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was delayed after visa problems left some players and officials without US paperwork; Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie blasted SAFA as “embarrassing” and said the charter would leave Monday once visas were sorted. Local Security: Police in Kanana are investigating a tavern shooting that killed a 15-year-old woman and three Lesotho men, with two Lesotho women also injured. Lesotho Economy: Storm Mountain Diamonds says its Kao Mine will shut down on June 30, citing fuel cost spikes and weak diamond prices, with hundreds of workers expected to be affected. Money & Prices: Lesotho’s central bank raised the Central Bank Rate by 25 basis points to 6.75% as Middle East conflict and higher fuel costs threaten inflation and strain reserves. Trade & Tariffs: China’s new zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries is being welcomed, but analysts warn Lesotho and others must meet export standards and build capacity to benefit. Sports (Region): Kenya’s Harambee Stars will play Lesotho in a June friendly double-header in Pretoria after earlier fixtures were disrupted. Youth & Skills: Quthing youth sat for ICT exams at a community hub, with a new intake set to open next week.

World Cup Logistics: South Africa’s Bafana Bafana departure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was delayed by a visa “debacle,” with Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie saying all players now have US visas while only some officials still awaited paperwork; the charter is set to leave Monday for Mexico ahead of the June 11 opener vs Mexico. Violence in the Region: Police in Kanana are investigating a tavern shooting that left a 15-year-old girl dead, three Lesotho men dead, and two Lesotho women injured; suspects are still at large. Lesotho-Linked Diplomacy & Health: Lesotho’s embassy in Ethiopia congratulated Ethiopia on launching the Lafto International Standard Hospital, calling it a major step for healthcare access. Money & Payments: FNB Lesotho launched a World Cup-themed Visa competition encouraging digital card use, with weekly and monthly prizes. Central Bank Watch: Lesotho’s central bank raised the Central Bank Rate by 25 basis points to 6.75% as global tensions and fuel-price pressures threaten inflation and reserves. Agriculture Spotlight: Lesotho marked International Day of Potato, with officials linking potato sector growth to national development plans and value-chain support. Women’s Football: Lesotho’s Copper Queens returned to camp ahead of the Four Nations tournament in Ndola, with a 29-player squad set for June 1–9 preparations for WAFCON.

Lesotho–Kenya Football: Kenya’s Harambee Stars will face Lesotho in a two-match friendly series during the June FIFA window in Pretoria after earlier Central Asia fixtures were scrapped for logistical reasons; the games are set for June 4 and June 7 at Lucas Moripe Stadium. Copper Queens Prep: Lesotho’s players return to Zambia’s Four Nations women’s tournament in Ndola (June 1–9) as the Copper Queens fine-tune ahead of WAFCON in Morocco. Central Bank Rate Rise: Lesotho’s Central Bank lifted the Central Bank Rate by 25 basis points to 6.75% citing global uncertainty, higher fuel prices, and inflation risks. Mining Jobs at Risk: Storm Mountain Diamonds’ Kao Mine in Mokhotlong is set to close on June 30, leaving over 800 workers unemployed. Waste Crisis: An Ombudsman report says 80% of Lesotho’s waste is unmanaged, with serious health and pollution risks. Border Pressure: Maseru border congestion over temporary import permits has prompted calls for urgent government action. Agriculture Spotlight: Lesotho marked International Day of Potato with renewed focus on commercialising the sector and strengthening value chains. ICT for Youth: Quthing youth sat for exams at the SOS Quthing Digital Community Hub after a free computer-skills training intake.

Central Banking: Lesotho’s Central Bank raised the Central Bank Rate by 25 basis points to 6.75% after global tensions and higher fuel prices threatened inflation and external reserves. Agriculture & Trade: Government welcomed China’s lifting of temporary wool import restrictions, saying wool consignments worth over M100 million have been released and payments to farmers have started. Public Finance: The Auditor General warned of recurring weaknesses in government financial management, including a M3 billion mismatch in cash receipts and payments and missing records on assets and loan guarantees. Elections & Civic Prep: The IEC launched a Civic and Voter Education Strategy and voter registration push in Maseru, stressing trust in the electoral process and the role of national identity documents. Justice: The High Court dismissed an application for discharge by five army members accused in the 2014 bombings, saying the prosecution has enough weight for them to answer. Health & Safety: Health workers urged caution as winter heating-related burn cases rise, advising immediate cooling with running water and faster hospital referral for serious burns. Environment: The Ombudsman said 80% of Lesotho’s waste is unmanaged, with urgent risks to public health, especially healthcare waste. Sports (Women’s Football): Copper Queens coach Häuptle named 29 for the Four Nations Tournament in Ndola, with key foreign-based players returning ahead of WAFCON preparations.

Central Bank Rate Rise: Lesotho’s central bank lifted the Central Bank Rate by 25 basis points to 6.75%, citing Middle East-linked fuel and shipping shocks that are pushing up inflation and threatening external reserves. Potato Sector Push: Agriculture Minister Selibe Mochoboroane marked International Day of Potato, saying government plans back commercialisation, value chains and climate-smart production to grow livelihoods. Court Ruling in 2014 Bombings Case: The High Court dismissed a discharge application by five army members accused of the 2014 bombings, saying the prosecution’s case is strong enough for the accused to answer. Auditor General Flags Financial Weaknesses: The Auditor General warned of recurring inconsistencies and poor records in government finances, including a M3 billion cash receipts-payments mismatch and issues with assets and IFMIS recording. IEC Civic Education Launch: The IEC rolled out its civic and voter education strategy and voter registration programme in Maseru, aiming to boost trust and participation ahead of elections. Waste Management Alarm: An Ombudsman report says 80% of Lesotho’s waste is unmanaged, with major public health risks from illegal dumps and open burning. Mining Job Losses: Kao Mine’s operator Storm Mountain Diamonds is shutting down, putting over 800 workers at risk of unemployment. GBV Centre Now Operational: UNFPA says Lesotho’s GBV Centre has been running for about two weeks, with victims already receiving counselling and psychosocial support, while media training focused on responsible reporting. ICT Training Exams in Quthing: Youth in Quthing and nearby districts sat for ICT final exams at the SOS Quthing Digital Community Hub, with a second intake set to open next week. Fire Safety Warning: Health workers urged caution as winter heating methods drive more burn injuries, stressing immediate cooling with clean running water and early hospital visits.