Lesotho Takes Bold Steps Towards Universal Energy Access, Says Energy Minister Mohlomi Moleko

Maseru – Lesotho’s Minister of Energy, Mr. Mohlomi Moleko, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to achieving universal energy access, stating that the nation is on a strategic journey towards a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable energy future. Speaking during the Lesotho Energy Access Dialogue held in Maseru on Wednesday, the Minister highlighted the government’s determination to tackle the country’s energy challenges head-on.

Addressing key stakeholders, including government officials, development partners, and private sector players, Mr. Moleko emphasized that the government’s vision is closely aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), which seeks to ensure affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.

“This dialogue is more than a conversation; it is a call to action,” said Minister Moleko. “It is a space where policy meets practice, where innovation meets investment, and where our collective commitments must transform into concrete results.”

The Minister revealed that the Government of Lesotho is currently preparing an Energy Compact as part of its participation in the Mission 300 initiative. This initiative, led by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, aims to provide electricity access to an additional 300 million people across Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.

Mr. Moleko stressed that Lesotho’s participation in Mission 300 presents a timely opportunity to refine its energy strategy and secure vital support from development partners. “The timing could not be more perfect,” he said, adding that insights and recommendations from the dialogue will help shape the country’s ambitious energy roadmap.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Minister Moleko pointed out that access to electricity in Lesotho remains below 55%, with rural communities being the most affected. Currently, only 11% of rural households have access to electricity, making energy poverty a critical development concern.

“These figures highlight the scale of the challenge before us, but also the scale of the opportunity,” the Minister said. He underscored the need for coordinated efforts between the government, private sector, and international partners to expand energy access and close the urban-rural energy divide.

The dialogue also focused on exploring innovative solutions, scaling up renewable energy projects, and attracting investment to boost energy infrastructure. Minister Moleko expressed confidence that the discussions and partnerships forged during the event would help accelerate progress towards universal energy access.

As Lesotho continues to position itself for sustainable energy development, the government remains committed to making energy a driver of economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.