What You Need to Know
The Kingdom of Lesotho and the People’s Republic of China are collaborating to fund the construction of a new Broadcasting Complex. The project, announced by Minister Nthati Moorosi, aims to improve internet infrastructure and broadcasting services, including modernizing Lesotho Television studios. The initiative also addresses challenges like vandalism of communication towers.
Africa-Press – Lesotho. The Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation will this financial year undertake an inspection process ahead of the construction of a new Broadcasting Complex.
This was revealed by the Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Ms Nthati Moorosi, when presenting the ministry’s recurrent budget estimate of M264,695,313 before the Committee of Supply in the National Assembly on Friday.
Ms Moorosi indicated that the construction project will be jointly funded by the governments of the Kingdom of Lesotho and the People’s Republic of China. She noted that the ministry will identify a suitable site for the complex and determine the equipment to be installed in the facility.
She further stated that the ministry plans to expand internet infrastructure and broadcasting services through television and radio, as well as modernise Lesotho Television studios and improve radio transmission clarity across the country.
However, Ms Moorosi highlighted vandalism of communication towers and challenges in policy implementation as some of the issues affecting the ministry’s operations. Meanwhile, some Members of Parliament recommended the deployment of security guards at communication towers to curb vandalism.
They also urged the ministry to extend radio broadcasting services to highland areas to enhance access to information and to consider constructing Lesotho National Broadcasting Service (LNBS) facilities outside the Maseru Central Business District. The proposed budget was approved and adopted as part of the annual financial estimates.
Lesotho has been working to enhance its communication infrastructure, particularly in broadcasting and internet services. The partnership with China reflects a growing trend of international collaboration in developing countries, aiming to improve local capabilities and access to information. The government’s focus on expanding services to rural areas highlights the importance of communication in fostering development and connectivity in the nation. Recent challenges, such as vandalism of communication infrastructure, have prompted discussions on security measures to protect these vital assets.
