Maseru, Dec. 24 — The Prime Minister (PM), Mr. Ntsokoane Matekane has wished Basotho peace and good health during and beyond Christmas.
As part of celebrating Christmas, the PM also shared with the nation various government’s achievements through different Ministries and challenges hindering development to some extent.
Talking about successes, he mentioned that while the government has introduced Emergency Medical Services, the long awaited Cancer Radiotherapy Hospital is currently under construction in an attempt to act pro-actively against cancer.
Furthermore, he explained that the government through the Ministry of Health has also registered successes in terms of tackling HIV/AIDS pandemic as well as other related illnesses, adding they are looking forward to establishing Lesotho Medicine Authority and Cannabis Regulatory Board for effective deliverables.
Talking about issues of electrification, he mentioned that in 2025 alone, the government has successfully ensured electricity supply to at least 4208 families. In issues of communication and technology, he said the government has been able to install 96 km fiber cable in Thaba-Tseka to enhance internet services for communities in hard to reach districts.
With the 10th Amendment to the Constitution having seen light in Parliament, he expressed hope that the country will attain Lesotho all aspire for in relation to the ongoing reforms processes.
Meanwhile, the PM also stated that the government is committed to quality and universal education hence is on a campaign to refurbish and construct a total of 52 primary schools nation-wide.
Furthermore, Mr. Matekane said through NMDS, a total of 20,500 students were awarded scholarships while M28 million debt in relation to scholarships was collected.
“We have since declared our effort to transform Lesotho’s economy through agriculture hence in partnership with Post Bank, a M200 million agreement has been signed in an attempt to ensure that farmers are subsidised so that they can access farming equipment easily,” he said.
When talking about relations with other countries, he stipulated that they have signed about six agreements under Bi-National Commission (BNC) with South Africa, indicating the need to explore various areas so as to build the country.
When talking about challenges, he said unemployment remains a major challenge, especially among the youth and all has been worsened by USA sanctions as well as geopolitical and trade wars, thus it has been declared an emergency.
He assured all including the youth that the government will continue to support various initiatives meant to transform lives, such as youth SEBABATSO and holding dialogues amongst others.
ENDS/AM
