MASERU — The government of Lesotho has launched and integrated the solid waste management strategy, a move aimed at strengthening environmental protection, promoting recycling, reusing and reducing waste materials.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Environment and Forestry Mr. Letsema Adontši said the strategy goes beyond waste collection and disposal, describing it as a national framework that promotes dignity, innovation, and resilience while encouraging Basotho to view waste as valuable resource.
The Minister noted that the strategy aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, Agenda 2063 and the aspirations of Basotho people for living in a clean and healthy environment.
“This strategy is not only about waste bins and trucks, it is about dignity, opportunity, and resilience,” the minister said, adding that it also seeks to create employment opportunities for youth through recycling and green innovation.
Mr. Adontši further highlighted that unmanaged waste has for years polluted rivers, damaged landscapes, and posed risks to public health and livestock, calling for collective action from government, the private sector, civil society, and communities.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Representative Dr. Jacqueline Olweya mentioned that the launch marks an important role in Lesotho’s journey towards a healthier and cleaner environment.
Dr. Olweya noted that the initiative strengthens efforts to ensure environmental sustainability, highlighting progress already made in reducing plastic levy.
She explained that the strategy aims to promote sustainable waste management practices, encourage community participation in environmental wellness, strengthen institutional frameworks for waste collection, reduce environmental pollution, and safeguard public health.
“These objectives are critical to advancing Lesotho’s waste management efforts and transforming waste into economic opportunities from waste to wealth.” She said.
Meanwhile, Ms. Qongqong Hoohlo, Acting Director in the Department of Environment said Lesotho continues to face growing challenges in waste management, including rising urban waste volumes, limited landfill capacity, weak enforcement of regulations, and low public awareness on waste separation and recycling.
She noted that the integrated solid waste management strategy is designed to strengthen institutional frameworks and promote sustainable waste management practices across communities.
Ms. Hoohlo added that the strategy aligns with international and continental development frameworks and is expected to reduce environmental pollution, safeguard public health, and unlock economic opportunities in recycling and green jobs.
The strategy also encourages environmental responsibility across all sectors, stressing that protecting natural resources is key to safeguarding future generations.
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