Maseru, April 22 — The Chief Financial Officer of the Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA), Mr. Tsikinyane Mangangole, has called on young Basotho to shift from being passive consumers of technology to active creators and innovators in the digital space.
Speaking during the opening of the Young and Innovation Forum held on the sidelines of the 64th Council Meeting of the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation and the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow, Mr. Mangangole emphasized the importance of youth participation in shaping Lesotho’s digital future.
He noted that many young people are already making strides in sectors such as fintech and agtech, using innovation and creativity to address real-world challenges.
However, he stressed that more needs to be done to equip them with the skills required to compete on a global scale.
“The goal of this roadshow is to move beyond strategy and ensure that our young creatives know how to use online platforms, artificial intelligence, and data to transform their work and access international markets,” he said.
Mr. Mangangole described the forum as a platform designed to inspire action, urging participants to take advantage of the opportunities presented by digital transformation.
He highlighted exhibitions at the event as clear evidence of the growing potential among young Basotho innovators.
He further challenged the youth to rethink their relationship with technology, warning against a culture of passive consumption.
“We have become consumers of technologies that were not designed with us in mind. It is time to move away from that mindset and become architects of our own digital future,” he said.
Mr. Mangangole also underscored the importance of inclusivity, stating that no Mosotho should be left behind in the digital revolution.
He pointed to initiatives such as the CTO Academy, which aim to equip young people with essential skills in areas including digital policy, cybersecurity, and innovation.
In his closing remarks, he encouraged young participants to actively engage with industry experts present at the forum.
“Network, collaborate and seek knowledge. The insights you gain here can shape your future,” he urged.
He echoed sentiments shared by government leaders that the energy and fresh ideas of young people are critical in driving Lesotho’s digital economy.
The Young and Innovation Forum forms part of ongoing efforts to position Lesotho as a digitally inclusive and innovation-driven economy, leveraging partnerships under the Commonwealth platform to empower its youth.
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