Maseru, Apil.22 — The Government of Lesotho is intensifying efforts to strengthen digital innovation and expand its participation on global technology platforms, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communication, Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr. Kanono Ramashamole, has said.
Mr. Ramashamole made the remarks during the Young Innovation Forum held on the side-lines of the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation engagements. He highlighted the importance of community-driven innovation, noting that local participation remains key in shaping the country’s digital future.
“We are encouraged by the growing involvement of our communities in innovation initiatives, and we are hopeful that, as was the case last year, more Basotho will be nominated and recognised for their contributions,” he said.
He further conveyed the Minister’s message on upcoming international opportunities, including the Artificial Intelligence Forum organised by the International Telecommunication Union, which will feature the United Nations COSU UN AI Dialogue.
Mr. Ramashamole indicated that Lesotho will once again field two national teams to compete internationally, providing young innovators with a platform to engage with global counterparts and showcase their solutions.
“As government, we remain committed to ensuring that Basotho innovators are not only participants but active competitors on the global stage,” he added.
In a significant policy development, Mr. Ramashamole announced that the Ministry has been directed to immediately begin the process of developing a Digital Innovation Policy.
He explained that the policy will establish a structured framework to support innovation, guide technological advancement and create an enabling environment for start-ups and emerging enterprises.
“We must move with urgency to establish a policy that speaks to the realities of our digital economy and supports sustainable innovation,” he said.
Mr. Ramashamole also stressed the importance of implementing outcomes from such forums, urging stakeholders to translate discussions into tangible actions that benefit the country.
“It is not enough to convene and deliberate; we must ensure that the resolutions of this forum are implemented so that we can realise meaningful impact,” he noted.
He reiterated government’s commitment to fostering a dynamic digital ecosystem that empowers youth, drives economic growth and positions Lesotho as a competitive player in the global digital landscape.
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