AGP Executive Report

Kilimanjaro Challenge: Six women from Bloemfontein’s Maoto Mpepe Hiking Club are set to climb Mount Kilimanjaro from 22 September to 4 October, with training boosted by high-altitude hikes in Lesotho and the Free State. Lesotho Royal Spotlight: Princess Senate Seeiso has been appointed a UNDP National Goodwill Ambassador, focusing on equality, women’s issues, decent work and sustainable development. Voter Turnout Warning: A SADC report says only 35.44% of registered voters turned out in Lesotho’s 2022 elections, citing civic education gaps and administrative problems at polling stations. Anti-Trafficking Push: IOM is intensifying trafficking-in-persons awareness and training in Berea, strengthening law enforcement, the judiciary and survivor support across Lesotho’s districts. Bail Denied in Nurses Association Murder Case: Lesotho’s High Court refused bail for Foliki Makhutle, saying releasing him could jeopardise the case and witnesses. Weather Watch: SAWS issued Yellow Level 4 warnings for disruptive rain and damaging winds, with possible snowfall in high areas of Lesotho. Digital Infrastructure Boost: WIOCC secured $300m to expand Africa’s fibre, data centres and subsea connectivity, with Lesotho Communications Authority listed among shareholders.

UNDP & Royal Appointment: Lesotho’s Princess Senate Seeiso has been appointed a UNDP National Goodwill Ambassador, with a focus on equality, sustainable development, women’s issues, decent work and social inclusion. Election Integrity: A SADC report says fewer than half of registered voters turned out in Lesotho’s 2022 elections, citing voter education gaps and administrative problems at polling stations. Human Trafficking Push: The IOM is stepping up efforts against trafficking in persons in Lesotho, training and coordinating with law enforcement, the judiciary and service providers across all 10 districts. Food Security & Farmers: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority will register grain from Basotho farmers under the Local Purchase Programme until Sept 4, then buy grain from Sept 9–18, with clear bagging and documentation rules. Health Awareness: The Ministry of Health will close Lesotho’s Oral Health Awareness campaign in Leribe, targeting rising dental disease and limited access to care. Agriculture Innovation: Aeroponics is being promoted as a year-round, soil-free farming option for Lesotho, with guidance aimed at young people treating farming as a business. Weather Watch: A cut-off low is expected to bring disruptive rain and damaging winds to South Africa, with possible snowfall in high-lying areas of Lesotho—drivers are urged to stay alert. Crime & Community: CRROA held a men’s dialogue in Mafeteng urging men to manage anger and avoid violence, linking prevention to safer reintegration of ex-offenders.

Illegal Mining Fallout: Johannesburg’s infrastructure is being undermined by round-the-clock zama zamas, with roads collapsing and residents reporting tremors, sinkholes and rising violence linked to gang competition. Weather Watch for Lesotho: South Africa’s SAWS issued Yellow Level 4 warnings for disruptive rain, damaging winds and possible snowfall on the Drakensberg, with conditions expected to spill into Lesotho—motorists on mountain passes are urged to stay alert. High Court Bail Denied: Lesotho’s High Court refused bail for Foliki Makhutle, accused of murdering Lesotho Nurses Association secretary-general Morephe Santi, citing risks of witness intimidation and interference. Transport Safety: The National Consumer Commission in South Africa announced a recall of 2,275 Ford Ranger Double Cabs over a side-curtain airbag/B-pillar trim defect; affected vehicles sold locally and exported to Lesotho must be inspected and repaired at no cost. Health & Community: Lesotho’s Oral Health Awareness campaign closes in Leribe, while an event in Maseru backed by UNDP and Econet Telecom Lesotho used creativity to tackle GBV, substance abuse and mental health. Food Support: Lesotho’s DMA will register grain from Basotho farmers under the Local Purchase Programme until Sept 4, with purchasing planned for Sept 9–18.

Male Midwives in Lesotho: In Mohale’s Hoek, a growing number of men are training as midwives to help cut deaths around childbirth, challenging the idea that midwifery is only women’s work. Court Update: The High Court in Maseru denied bail to Foliki Makhutle, accused of murdering Morephe Santi, secretary-general of the Lesotho Nurses Association, citing risks of witness interference. Road Safety Recall: The National Consumer Commission says 2,275 Ford Ranger Double Cabs (including some exported to Lesotho) face an airbag defect and urges owners to get free inspections and repairs. Local Economy & Jobs: Workers at Precious Garments in Maseru staged a strike over unpaid wages, reduced hours and claims production was shifted to cheaper factories. Food Support: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority opens registration for grain under the Local Purchase Programme, with purchases planned after registration ends on Sept 4. Education & Protection: The Ministry of Education and Training rolls out Safe and Inclusive Schools in 300 primary schools to prevent and respond to violence against learners. US Visa Changes (Maseru listed): The US Embassy says routine visa processing moved to regional hubs, but diplomatic and official visas are still handled in Abuja for eligible applicants.

Car Safety Recall: The National Consumer Commission has urged Ford Ranger Double Cab owners to get urgent checks after a recall covering 2,275 vehicles (2026–2027 models) over a side-curtain airbag fault that could stop deployment or send a B-pillar trim piece flying; repairs will be done free of charge, and some affected bakkies were exported to Lesotho, Botswana, Namibia and Eswatini. Water Project Court Fight: A South African firm, Esor Construction, has taken Lesotho High Court action seeking about M165-million over alleged unpaid work linked to the Polihali Transfer Tunnel under the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. Traditional Medicine Protection: Traditional doctors in Lesotho are calling for stronger protection of indigenous medicinal plants and more investment in research and development to support universal health coverage. Labour Unrest: Precious Garments workers in Maseru have staged a strike over unpaid wages, reduced hours, and claims that production is being shifted to cheaper factories. Schools Violence Prevention: The Ministry of Education is rolling out Safe and Inclusive Schools in 300 primary schools to train staff, strengthen reporting, and improve child protection responses. Digital Health Push: Lesotho’s Digital Innovators Summit 2026 highlighted how AI and digital tools can reshape healthcare delivery and training. Power Upgrade in Semonkong: Prime Minister Samuel Matekane launched an upgraded hydropower station meant to supply reliable electricity through the night, ending years of solar and diesel reliance. Football Business Deal: LeFA has partnered with Radisol Global Investments to grow commercial revenue around Lesotho football while keeping governance in LeFA’s hands. Sports Spotlight: Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana finished third at the Sydney Marathon in 2:04:57, narrowly missing a higher place in a record-breaking men’s race won by Ethiopia’s Addisu Gobena.

Sports Spotlight: Ethiopia’s Addisu Gobena smashed the Sydney Marathon course record to win in 2:04:42, with Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana taking third in 2:04:57, while Kenya’s Peres Jepchirchir dominated the women’s race in 2:18:31. Health & Society: Male midwives in Lesotho are slowly gaining acceptance as the country tackles rural staffing gaps and high childbirth risk; one midwife, Ntlhane Sehloho, says he travels hours to serve pregnant women and that women can request female staff if they feel uncomfortable. Local Justice: A Maseru court sentenced Tsebang Ramoholi to an effective 10 years for posing as a Ministry of Health official and defrauding job seekers. Governance & Development: China handed ICT equipment to Lesotho Parliament to support online work and service delivery, and Prime Minister Samuel Matekane launched an upgraded Semonkong hydropower station aimed at reliable power through the night. Business & Football: LeFA announced a strategic partnership with Radisol Global Investments to grow football’s commercial revenue while keeping governance in LeFA’s hands.

Courts & Corruption: A Maseru Magistrate’s Court sentenced Tsebang Ramoholi to an effective 10 years for posing as a Ministry of Health official and defrauding job seekers. Justice System: The High Court ordered the arrest of Teboho Tšolo, accused of murdering former Bantu FC official Panyane Phiri, after he failed to appear in court. Energy & Power Supply: Prime Minister Samuel Matekane launched an upgraded hydropower station in Semonkong, promising more reliable electricity and ending years of night-time reliance on solar and diesel. Development Finance: The Trade Minister and LNDC pushed a new blended-finance approach to attract capital as government funds and cheap donor loans get harder to secure. Governance & Oversight: The Auditor General appointed PKF Consult to audit the Lesotho Electricity Company, raising fresh independence concerns after a PKF owner-director joined the LEC board. Politics & Security Claims: BNP leader Machesetsa Mofomobe asked the Madlanga Commission to test whether “Cat” Matlala’s Lesotho security links to the Prime Minister fall within the inquiry’s scope. Sports: Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana finished third as Ethiopia’s Addisu Gobena smashed the Sydney Marathon course record; Kenya’s Peres Jepchirchir won the women’s race. International Support: China handed ICT equipment to Lesotho Parliament to help modernise online operations.

Sports Spotlight: Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana won bronze at the Sydney Marathon, finishing third in the women’s race behind Ethiopian and Kenyan winners as Addisu Gobena set a men’s course record. Public Health & Livestock: Zimbabwe’s neighbours are tightening cattle movement rules as foot-and-mouth disease spreads in Matabeleland North and South, with quarantine and veterinary clearance stressed. Lesotho Governance & Implementation: Lesotho will host the AAPAM summit in Maseru from 8–11 December 2026, aiming to close the gap between policy plans and real delivery. Justice & Security: A Maseru Port of Entry warrant officer was arrested in South Africa over an alleged R10,000 bribe/extortion demand; in Lesotho, a BNP leader Machesetsa Mofomobe is fighting his joinder in the M5bn Khubetsoana drug-lab case. Youth & Community: Princess Senate has been appointed UNDP Lesotho National Goodwill Ambassador for Equality and Sustainable Development, while schools are being urged to steer learners away from drugs and gangsterism. Regional Sports Media: DAZN secured LaLiga rights across Sub-Saharan Africa for three seasons, bringing all matches to fans via live and on-demand viewing.

Border Corruption: A 47-year-old warrant officer at the Maseru Port of Entry was arrested for allegedly demanding a R10,000 bribe from a traveller carrying R71,000, threatening money-laundering charges before letting him cross; the case has been handed to the Free State Anti-Corruption Unit. VIP Protection Probe: Prime Minister Sam Matekane denied meeting or doing business with South African crime boss “Cat” Matlala, but confirmed a former private security aide dealt with him about setting up a Lesotho VIP security company. Drug Crackdown: Five foreign nationals, including a Lesotho citizen, were arrested in Gauteng after police uncovered a hydroponic dagga lab worth over R1m, seizing firearms including a .303 rifle and a Glock pistol. Court Developments: Lesotho’s High Court heard a bid for leniency from two LDF members convicted over the Mohale Dam killings; in another case, a sergeant accused of raping a 15-year-old was denied bail. Youth & Community: Princess Senate was appointed UNDP Lesotho National Goodwill Ambassador for Equality and Sustainable Development, while learners at Sefate Sa Bophelo were warned against drugs and gangsterism. Health & Compensation: Tshiamiso Trust says it has paid R2.53bn to 26,300 mineworkers/ dependents in the silicosis and TB settlement, with Lesotho accounting for most successful claims.

Border Corruption: A 47-year-old warrant officer at the Maseru Port of Entry was arrested for allegedly demanding a R10,000 bribe from a traveller after finding R71,000 in cash, threatening money-laundering charges before letting him cross; the case is now with anti-corruption investigators. Drug Case Twist: BNP leader Machesetsa Mofomobe asked the Maseru Magistrate’s Court to drop him from the M5bn Khubetsoana drug laboratory case, saying his joinder was unlawful while a co-accused bid to quash charges is still pending; the prosecution says it can add accused before proceedings start. VIP Security Row: Prime Minister Sam Matekane denied meeting or doing business with South African crime boss “Cat” Matlala, but confirmed a former private security aide dealt with him about setting up a Lesotho VIP protection company. Courtroom Justice: In the long-running PC Mokalekale Khetheng police murder trial, Snr Insp Mathibeli Mofolo was convicted for murder cover-up-related offences while co-accused were acquitted. Public Safety in Schools: Sefate Sa Bophelo learners were warned against drugs and gangsterism in a campaign led by the Probation Unit and LMPS. Health Claims Update: Tshiamiso Trust says it has paid R2.53bn to 26,300 mineworkers and dependents for silicosis and TB, with claims still processing as it enters its final three years. Governance & Implementation: Lesotho will host the 45th AAPAM summit in Maseru (8–11 Dec 2026) focused on closing the gap between policy ambition and real implementation. Youth & Culture: Linotsí launched a Thaba-Bosiu identity and branding initiative to mentor youth through Basotho culture and boost tourism opportunities.

Border Corruption Crackdown: A 47-year-old SAPS warrant officer at the Maseru Port of Entry was arrested for allegedly demanding a R10,000 bribe from a traveller carrying R71,000, threatening money-laundering charges unless paid, with the case now with the Free State anti-corruption unit. Drug Bust With Lesotho Link: Gauteng police arrested five suspects after uncovering a hydroponic dagga lab worth over R1 million in De Deur; the group includes a Lesotho national, and officers also seized two unlicensed firearms, with court appearances expected soon. Sexual Violence Case: A Lesotho Defence Force sergeant accused of raping a 15-year-old was denied bail after prosecutors said the child feared him and lived nearby; the matter was postponed to 8 September for a trial date. Public Service Staffing: LMPS introduced a three-year retention programme to keep leave-pending officers beyond the usual retirement age, citing shortages and the need for mentoring and succession planning. Implementation Focus: Lesotho will host the AAPAM summit in Maseru (8–11 December 2026) to tackle the gap between policy and delivery. Tourism Branding: Thaba-Bosiu launched its identity logo as part of efforts to position the area as a branded tourism destination ahead of Lesotho’s 60th independence celebrations.

Lesotho Football Growth: LeFA has signed a strategic partnership with Radisol Global Investments to boost football’s commercial sustainability and professionalisation, with the investor supporting sponsorships and revenue initiatives while keeping LeFA as the governing authority. Police Retention Plan: The Lesotho Mounted Police Service launched a three-year retention programme to keep leave-pending officers until 2029, citing a shortage and the need to mentor recruits as the force struggles with succession gaps. Road Upgrade Dispute: Residents in Qacha’s Nek are questioning how workers were selected for the A4 road rehabilitation, alleging the recruitment list didn’t match who was eventually hired. Tourism Branding Push: Government and Thaba-Bosiu stakeholders unveiled the Thaba-Bosiu identity logo as part of efforts to position the area as a branded tourism destination ahead of Lesotho’s 60th independence celebrations. Digital Health Summit: A Digital Innovators Summit at the National Health Training College will bring together health and tech experts to discuss digital health innovation, including AI and data use. Agriculture & Disease Control: Botswana’s FMD vaccine consignment is expected to arrive in Botha-Bothe for cattle vaccination as Lesotho prioritises hotspots due to limited supply.

CAF Women’s Champions League-COSAFA qualifier: Red Roses are in the semi-finals after a tough run at GU Stadium, beating Lesotho Defence Force 2-1 and Herentals Queens, then suffering a 2-0 group-decider loss to ZESCO Ndola Girls; coach Khalid Ninyonzima called it a “good test” ahead of the next round, where they face South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who topped their group unbeaten. Football business: The Lesotho Football Association and Radisol Global Investments announced a strategic partnership to professionalise and commercialise Lesotho football, with Radisol backing sponsorships and revenue initiatives while LeFA keeps its governing role. Prime Minister security claims denied: The Office of the Prime Minister dismissed allegations linking PM Ntsokoane Matekane to a private VIP security company, saying any contact was personal and not authorised by the PMO. Agriculture warning: Minister Selibe Mochoboroane urged wool and mohair farmers to diversify into meat processing, warning synthetic alternatives could squeeze demand and pushing abattoirs as a hedge. Climate preparedness: Leribe is developing an El Niño action plan after a district disaster workshop, aiming to protect communities already facing food insecurity. Digital push: Lesotho is hosting a Digital Innovators Summit on digital health, while government also advances a National AI Strategy and Data Centre Blueprint. Tourism branding: Tourism officials soft-launched the Thaba-Bosiu identity logo as part of the build-up to Lesotho’s 60 years of independence. Justice in court: A witness testified that reconciliation efforts between a deceased and accused in a murder case failed, with the defence arguing self-defence. Connectivity: Vodacom Lesotho launched enterprise satellite broadband using Starlink to support reliable links in remote areas.

Cultural Heritage Training: UNESCO, AUDA-NEPAD and the University of Pretoria are running two Southern Africa courses (11–28 Aug) to build legal and ethical capacity for the return and restitution of cultural property, with Lesotho among nine participating countries. Digital Push: Lesotho hosted a five-day workshop to develop a national AI strategy and a sovereign data centre blueprint, building on draft AI, data management and broadband policy frameworks. Connectivity for Remote Areas: Vodacom Lesotho launched an enterprise satellite broadband service using Starlink, aiming to keep businesses and public institutions online where fibre and towers are hard to deploy. Livestock Disaster Gap: In Mokhotlong, winter livestock deaths have exposed weak disaster preparedness—farmers got warnings, but lack of infrastructure and protection left them unable to save animals during heavy snowfall. Community Land Restoration: The Sebapala Integrated Watershed Management project closed after four years, restoring rangelands and strengthening watershed management through nearly 1,000 volunteer-led efforts. Wine Festival Returns: The Lesotho Wine Festival comes back for its 13th edition on 10 Oct in Maseru, with expanded tastings, food concepts and live entertainment. Regional Leadership Bid: Lesotho says it is ready to serve as Deputy Chairperson (or incoming chair) of SADC’s Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, with the decision expected at an October 2026 summit. SOE Governance Summit: Lesotho hosted an Africa SOE corporate governance summit in Maseru (24–26 Aug) focused on turning state enterprises into global competitors. China Scholarships: Lesotho welcomed Chinese scholarship support aimed at building human capital, with students urged to return skills to national development.

Lesotho–China Education Boost: Lesotho says Chinese scholarships are strengthening human capital, easing the cost of overseas study, and helping graduates take senior roles at home and abroad. Regional Security Leadership Bid: Lesotho has signalled readiness to serve as Deputy Chair of SADC’s Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation (or take the incoming chair), with the decision expected at an October 2026 extra-ordinary summit. Governance for State Firms: Lesotho hosts an Africa SOE corporate governance summit in Maseru, aiming to improve accountability and performance so public enterprises can compete globally. SADC Politics, Defence & Security: Lesotho’s push comes as the bloc’s leadership rotates, with South Africa chair and Eswatini chairing the security organ. South Africa Xenophobia Fallout: South Africa’s Ramaphosa says some anti-foreigner violence is being driven by outside forces and promises arrests and prosecutions. Football Governance Clash: SA’s sports minister Gayton McKenzie demands SAFA return R30m over delays in VAR for the Premier Soccer League. Lesotho in the Spotlight: Lesotho is also mentioned in regional football and travel-access lists, including visa-free options for South African passport holders.

China-Lesotho Education Boost: Lesotho says Chinese scholarships and training are building skilled professionals and easing the cost of overseas study, with students urged to return and contribute to national development. Regional Security Leadership Bid: Lesotho signals it is ready to serve as Deputy Chair of SADC’s Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, or even take the incoming chair role, with the decision expected at an October 2026 extra-ordinary summit. Trade Facilitation Push: The government launches the Lesotho National Single Window, a World Bank-financed digital platform to let importers and exporters apply for trade licences and permits online through one system, cutting delays and reducing paperwork. Public Enterprise Governance: Lesotho hosts an Africa SOE Corporate Governance Summit in Maseru, focusing on accountability and turning state firms into globally competitive institutions. Health Funding Reality Check: WHO says Africa is still making progress on key health targets despite major cuts to international funding, citing gains in HIV and tuberculosis care. Sports—VAR Money Row: South Africa’s sports minister Gayton McKenzie renews pressure on SAFA over VAR funding, demanding the return of R30 million after no progress. Global Mobility Note: Lesotho appears in visa-free travel lists for South Africans and in global poverty rankings, underscoring the region’s economic and travel challenges.