Lesotho Sets Bold Ambition to Become Africa’s Clean Energy Hub by 2030

Lesotho has declared its bold ambition to become Africa’s clean energy hub by 2030, with Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane leading the charge. Speaking at a high-level side event titled “EMPOWERING LESOTHO: Unlocking Finance to Drive the Energy Transition in a Land-Locked Developing Country,” Prime Minister Matekane outlined Lesotho’s strategic vision for a green future powered by innovation, investment, and sustainability.

Held on the sidelines of an international energy and development forum, the meeting brought together government leaders, international investors, development finance institutions, and climate experts to explore how Lesotho can unlock the capital and technical partnerships required to fuel its transition to clean, renewable energy.

Prime Minister Matekane delivered a powerful message: “Lesotho has the natural resources, the political will, and the regional connectivity to become a key player in Africa’s energy transformation. Our goal is clear—by 2030, we want to be the renewable energy hub of Africa.”

Lesotho, known for its abundant water resources and high-altitude sunshine, is ideally positioned to harness both hydro and solar energy. The country already exports hydropower to neighboring South Africa through the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and is actively exploring opportunities to expand its energy generation capacity.

To realize this vision, Lesotho is focusing on four core pillars:

• Unlocking Green Finance: By attracting concessional loans, climate funds, and public-private partnerships, the country aims to bridge the investment gap in infrastructure, energy storage, and transmission networks.
• Expanding Renewable Infrastructure: Plans are underway to scale up solar farms, small-scale hydro plants, and off-grid energy solutions, especially in rural areas with limited access to electricity.
• Building Regional Energy Trade: With its geographic proximity to South Africa and other Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, Lesotho is positioning itself as a reliable energy supplier to the region.
• Ensuring Inclusive Development: Emphasis is placed on creating green jobs, upskilling youth, and ensuring that energy projects benefit communities equitably.

Prime Minister Matekane called on international development partners and investors to join hands with Lesotho in unlocking the country’s energy potential. “We must turn ambition into action. This is not only about powering homes and industries—it is about powering progress, dignity, and a sustainable future for every Mosotho.”

The government’s energy roadmap is part of its broader Vision 2050 strategy, which prioritizes climate resilience, economic transformation, and inclusive growth. By championing renewable energy and sustainable development, Lesotho is not only seeking energy independence but also aiming to lead Africa in the global fight against climate change.

As global demand for clean energy grows, Lesotho’s message is clear: it is ready to lead, to partner, and to power the future of Africa—cleanly, sustainably, and boldly.