Africa-Press – Lesotho. Lesotho has officially launched its Voluntary National Review (VNR) Report 2025–2030, marking a significant milestone in tracking the country’s progress towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The launch event brought together government officials, development partners, civil society, the private sector, and youth representatives to reflect on the country’s journey towards sustainable development.
The report highlights key focus areas including poverty reduction, education, health, climate action, and economic growth.
However, it also acknowledges ongoing challenges, such as gender-based violence and limited economic opportunities for women, particularly in rural areas.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Dr Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane, stressed that the report is not just a government document, but a national effort that captures the voices and experiences of Basotho from all walks of life.
Dr. Matlanyane stated that the report allows the country to reflect on its work with the United Nations, especially in a year when the UN marks eight years of collaboration with Lesotho in striving for development.
“This report helps us track how far we have come, what challenges we still face, and how we can work together to build a stronger, more inclusive Lesotho,” said Dr. Matlanyane.
She further noted that global challenges such as geopolitical shifts, economic instability, climate change, and rapid technological advancements continue to affect Lesotho’s development landscape.
The VNR is a voluntary process led by countries to assess and report progress on the 17 SDGs. It encourages transparency, accountability, and collaboration between the government and its citizens. Lesotho’s 2025–2030 report is the second VNR, following the first one presented in 2019.
The report outlines priorities for the next five years, including improved coordination among ministries, increased investment in data collection, and stronger partnerships with the private sector and development partners. It also calls on citizens to take an active role in shaping the country’s future.
UN Resident Coordinator a.i. Innocent Modisaotsile, applauded Lesotho’s commitment to the SDGs. He emphasised that the VNR plays a crucial role in aligning national development goals with global objectives, ensuring that people remain at the heart of every initiative.
“No one should be left behind. This report is a promise to our children and grandchildren that we are building a better, fairer future,” he said.
Modisaotsile described the VNR process as a key part of the 2030 Agenda. He said it not only allows countries to reflect on their progress but also reaffirms Lesotho’s commitment to building a more inclusive, resilient future.
He noted that the 2025–2030 report focuses on six interconnected SDGs, each of which plays an essential role in building a stronger and more equitable Lesotho:
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Lesotho has made progress in reducing HIV/AIDS infections and improving maternal health, though access to health services remains a challenge, especially in remote areas.
SDG 5: Gender Equality – Achieving equality for women and girls is not only a matter of human rights but also essential for sustainable development. The report reaffirms the country’s commitment to ensuring equal participation for women in all sectors.
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Sustainable economic growth that provides decent work opportunities is vital for reducing poverty and improving livelihoods.
SDG 13: Climate Action – Lesotho remains vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The report calls for increased resilience through sustainable land management and water conservation.
SDG 14: Life Below Water – This goal highlights the importance of protecting and sustainably managing water resources, which are closely tied to biodiversity and overall well-being.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The report stresses that no single entity can achieve these goals alone. The VNR itself stands as proof of the power of partnerships across government, private sector, international stakeholders, and civil society.
Modisaotsile concluded by noting that Lesotho’s VNR 2025–2030 will be presented at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York. The forum serves as a platform for countries to share their experiences and learn from one another in the pursuit of sustainable development.
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