Maseru, Mar. 03 — During the reopening of the House of the Senate from sine die, several Senators expressed appreciation for the newly tabled national budget, particularly praising allocations made to the Ministries of Agriculture, Health, and Education.
Speaking during the sitting, Senator ’Mawinnie Kanetsi applauded the Ministry of Education for allocating funds toward the revival of vocational schools.
Senator Kanetsi stated that these institutions had long been neglected as the government focused more on academic pathways, leaving behind many learners whose strengths lie in practical and technical skills.
She emphasised that reviving vocational training will not only give these young people a second chance at shaping their future, but also equip them to contribute meaningfully to job creation rather than depending solely on government employment.
Turning to the health sector, Senator Kanetsi highlighted urgent areas needing attention. She pinpointed the importance of the Oncology Clinic currently under development, saying its establishment will ease the government’s financial burden, as cancer patients will no longer have to be referred across the border for treatment, an arrangement that continues to cost the state significantly.
She further stressed the dire state of Mohlomi Hospital, where many Basotho facing mental and emotional distress seek help. Senator Kanetsi called for increased capacity, improved infrastructure, and better care systems to restore dignity and adequate service delivery at the institution.
Principal Chief Peete Lesaoana Peete also welcomed the boost given to the Ministry of Agriculture, reiterating that agriculture remains the backbone of every nation.
Chief Peete Lesaoana said Basotho farmers are capable of producing substantial quantities of food, but the recurring challenge remains access to markets.
He urged the government, especially through the Ministry of Trade, to secure sustainable market avenues that can unlock the full potential of local producers.
Chief Peete Lesaoana further noted that this is not the time for Lesotho to depend heavily on donations or aid, but rather to take a decisive and self-reliant stance.
He cautioned that the ongoing war between Israel and Iran poses a serious threat to global stability and will have far-reaching consequences for Africa, including countries like Lesotho, if preparations are not in place.
Chief Peete Lesaoana highlighted a few pointers which he said the conflict between Israel and Iran, though geographically distant, could significantly affect African economies, including Lesotho, through several channels.
Rising Fuel and Transport Costs, much of Africa relies heavily on imported oil. A conflict involving major Middle Eastern actors could disrupt global oil supply routes and push fuel prices sharply upward. This would raise the cost of transportation, food, and electricity, directly increasing the cost of living for ordinary Basotho.
Higher Food Prices and Supply Chain Strain, global shipping disruptions or increased transport costs would make food imports more expensive. African countries that depend on grain, fertiliser, or machinery imports would see price hikes, affecting both farmers and consumers.
Reduced Donor Funding, as global powers redirect financial resources and humanitarian aid toward the conflict zone, African countries may experience reductions in donor support, development assistance, and project funding, further stretching already-tight national budgets.
Economic Instability and Inflation, global financial markets typically react negatively to war. Currency fluctuations, inflation spikes, and slower investment flows may follow, creating instability in African economies.
Pressure on Peace and Security, a prolonged conflict may influence geopolitical alliances and security dynamics across the world. Some African regions could experience increased instability as global attention shifts away from ongoing crises on the continent.
Chief Peete Lesaoana warning highlights the importance of strategic national planning and strengthening domestic production to cushion the country from external shocks.
Ends/KP/ml
