What You Need to Know
The Lesotho government is urging the elderly to utilize electronic devices for receiving their pension grants, despite concerns over accessibility and security. Many elderly citizens prefer cash payments due to challenges with technology and high transaction fees. Officials argue that electronic payments are more efficient and safer, but some elderly individuals feel their rights are being disregu
Africa-Press – Lesotho. The elderly petitioned the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development to the portfolio committee on social cluster about the method of payment of their pensions through electronics yet they want the ministry to pay them cash at their centres.
Deputy Principal Secretary Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Mr. Thae Makhele said electronics is the way to go global.
He further explained that paying cash is costly to the Ministry because they had to pay for accommodation for officers and members of Lesotho defence Force.
They have huge debts with people who provided services of accommodation, indicating that now they are going to work with elderly to address their challenges because they are the ones who know how best to solve them.
An elderly Mr. Philip Mafaesa says the Ministry does not respect their rights and forced the method on them.
He explained the method has challenges since they live in areas without such services, and it also have high charges.
He stated since they are not digitally wise their grandchildren or people who assist them rob them, adding that the ministry has not yet sent the money after expunging their names from a system and he pleaded to the Ministry to return to the first method of paying them in cash
Member of committee, Mr. Remaketse Sehlabaka said due to the laws that govern money the ministry is not allowed to withdraw money exiting M30,000 from the bank moreover it exposes officers to potential harm of being hijacked or getting involved into money laundering and theft.
He showed that the world is changing to cash-less method for convenience, safety and control therefore its fundamental for them to learn how to use some of the basic systems.
In recent years, Lesotho has been transitioning towards digital payment systems to enhance efficiency in government services. This shift aims to reduce costs associated with cash handling and improve security for both officials and beneficiaries. However, the elderly population faces significant barriers in adapting to these changes, including limited access to technology and a lack of digital literacy, which raises concerns about their financial security and autonomy. The debate continues as the government balances modernization with the needs of its most vulnerable citizens.
