Lesotho Marks Urban October with Focus on Sustainable and Inclusive Cities

The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police, in collaboration with the National University of Lesotho, WASCO, and other partners, held an Urban October celebration at the Manthabiseng Convention Centre yesterday. The event highlighted Lesotho’s commitment to sustainable urban development and inclusive city planning.

Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police, Hon. Lebona Lephema, said Lesotho is addressing rapid urbanization through collaborative and consultative approaches. He noted that the urban population is expected to reach 33.4% by 2026 and 46.7% by 2050.

Hon. Lephema outlined key challenges, including poverty, unemployment, inadequate services, and climate change. He emphasized that planning for safer and more equitable cities is essential. The Minister stressed the importance of protecting women and girls, creating jobs, preserving the environment, and aligning urban development with global frameworks like Sustainable Development Goal 11 and the National Strategic Development Plan.

He called for innovation, good governance, and collective action to build sustainable, efficient, and inclusive cities for future generations. The celebration also highlighted the role of partnerships between government, academia, and civil society in addressing urban challenges.

Urban October provides an opportunity for Lesotho to showcase progress and strategies that promote environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive, and economically productive cities. The event reinforced the government’s vision of cities that meet the needs of all residents while supporting national development goals.