Maseru, Feb. 12 — The World Bank Group has reaffirmed its strong partnership with Lesotho, with active financing amounting to $403 million across nine operations aimed at supporting the country’s development priorities.
This was revealed by Ms. Mafupu Mokoena, Operations Officer at the World Bank Group, during a presentation outlining the institution’s achievements and ongoing programmes in Lesotho.
Ms. Mokoena explained that Lesotho receives support from the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank’s arm that assists low-income countries.
She noted that the total portfolio currently stands at $403 million, with cumulative disbursements reaching $199 million to date.
She further indicated that in the 2026 financial year alone, $30 million—representing 14 percent of the allocated funds—had been disbursed as of January 2026.
According to Ms. Mokoena, the World Bank’s support spans multiple sectors aligned with Lesotho’s national development agenda, including economic reform, infrastructure development and social services improvement.
In addition to financial assistance, she highlighted that IDA financing is complemented by Advisory Services and Analytics (ASA). Among these is the inagural Lesotho Economic Update 2025, which focuses on fiscal policy as a key driver of inclusive economic growth.
‘The Economic Update provides analytical insights to support evidence-based policymaking, particularly in strengthening fiscal management and promoting sustainable and inclusive growth,’ she said.
Ms. Mokoena emphasized that the World Bank Group remains committed to working closely with the Government of Lesotho to accelerate reforms, enhance service delivery and build resilience in the face of economic challenges.
The partnership between Lesotho and the World Bank Group continues to play a significant role in advancing development initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of Basotho and fostering long-term economic stability.
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