April — The Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police, Mr. Lebona Lephema, says efforts are underway to simplify movement between Lesotho and South Africa while offering relief to Basotho who have overstayed in that country.
Mr. Lephema shared insights following a recent visit to Cape Town, where discussions focused on improving migration systems and easing border processes between the two countries.
He stressed that Basotho should respect the laws governing South Africa at all times. He said delegations from Lesotho and South Africa undertook benchmarking visits to Senegal, Gambia, Botswana and Namibia to learn how those countries manage border operations.
He noted that resources are available to establish a one-stop border system aimed at improving efficiency and reducing delays.
Director of Migration, Mrs. Bertha Piletso, said recommendations include the use of national identity documents for citizens of both countries and the introduction of a one-stop border post.
Mrs. Piletso added that an electronic travel authorisation system will be introduced for visits of up to 90 days, while individuals intending to stay longer will be required to apply for appropriate permits.
Passports, she said, will mainly be required for travel beyond South Africa. Commissioner of Labour, Mrs. Mathabo Matsoso, indicated that agreements have been reached regarding Basotho working in South Africa, particularly in mining and domestic sectors.
She highlighted that South Africa is ready to accommodate Basotho workers, including those involved in livestock-related work.
Director of Legal Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Advocate Mapuleng Mokitimi, said medical insurance companies from Lesotho will be recognised when applying for study permits.
She clarified that the electronic travel authorisation will not be used for work purposes, but for short visits such as medical reasons or other urgent matters.
Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mr. Nkhotha Machachamise, said Basotho who have overstayed in South Africa, excluding those with criminal records, will be granted an opportunity to regularise their stay.
He urged those affected to report to migration offices to begin the process of starting afresh legally.
He added that a permanent structure will be established to oversee the implementation of agreements between the two countries, with officials from both sides expected to operate under one roof in Lesotho.
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