What You Need to Know
The 2025/26 Fiscal Year budget of Lesotho highlights the urgency of digital transformation for economic growth and inclusion. It allocates M1.8 billion to enhance connectivity, particularly in rural areas, and aims to bridge the digital divide. The government seeks to improve access to affordable internet, especially for youth, to foster participation in the digital economy.
Africa-Press – Lesotho. Digital transformation is both urgent and indispensable to accelerating growth, inclusion, and effective participation in the global economy, the 2025/26 Fiscal Year budget has said.
According to the budget, the government has in this regard accelerated investments that enable digitisation and the development of a digital economy across all sectors.
Through this budget, more focus is set to be put to access and connectivity, improve reliability, and bridge the digital divide. Underserved areas shall be connected, particularly rural areas including upgrading of public institutions, partner with the private sector.
For broader participation, affordable internet access points will be rolled out to enable broader particularly among young people in the digital economy.
To this effect, the United Nations (UN) through the newly appointed Ms. Residen Taija has vowed to follow the footsteps of her successor, Ms. Amanda Khozi and make sure that the future of Lesotho, that is youth, is supported especially during this critical time of digital era.
She acknowledged the call made by the Prime Minister, Mr. Ntsokoane Matekane where he talked about unemployment among the youth as a matter of urgency, one that should be addressed in all angles, hence Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes important.
Over and above, the Resident Coordinator, who comes from Finland indicated she learnt in her country how digitisation was given preference, affirming her commitment to ensuring that in Lesotho all necessary support will be given to ensure no one is left behind.
Therefore, the budget allocated M1.8 billion is allocated to the economic growth and job creation sector for stimulating private sector activity, boosting productivity, and expanding employment opportunities.
Lesotho has been focusing on digital transformation as a means to boost its economy and improve the quality of life for its citizens. The government’s commitment to digitization is part of a broader strategy to enhance connectivity and access to technology, particularly in underserved areas. This initiative aligns with global trends where countries are increasingly recognizing the importance of digital economies in fostering growth and inclusion. The emphasis on youth engagement in this digital era is crucial, as young people represent a significant portion of the population and are key to driving innovation and economic development.
