Lesotho–Botswana Relations Strengthened During Ministerial Visit

Relations between Lesotho and Botswana were further reinforced during the visit of Lesotho’s Natural Resources Minister, Mr. Mohlomi Moleko, to Botswana on Thursday. Minister Moleko was received by his counterpart, Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Joy Kenewendo.

According to the Ministry of Natural Resources, the meeting provided an opportunity for both ministers to reaffirm the longstanding cordial ties between the two countries. Discussions focused on areas of mutual interest, particularly cooperation in the minerals and energy sectors. Topics included mining exploration and potential collaboration in energy development projects.

The visit builds on earlier engagements, including Lesotho Prime Minister Mr. Ntsokoane Matekane’s recent visit to Botswana during its Children’s Day celebrations. During that visit, Botswana President Advocate Duma Boko highlighted the strong historic, cultural, and linguistic ties between the two nations, noting that Basotho form an integral part of Botswana’s social fabric.

President Boko also emphasized ongoing regional projects, including the Lesotho–Botswana Water Pipeline, which aims to benefit southern Botswana and support the development of a 5MW hydropower station. He acknowledged Lesotho’s success in rehabilitating programmes for youth affected by substance abuse and expressed interest in expanding partnerships in this area.

“Botswana and Lesotho share deep bonds, great opportunities, and a future of productive cooperation. We look forward to strengthened relations for the mutual benefit of our peoples,” President Boko said.

This ministerial visit comes just a month before both countries celebrate their diamond jubilees in 2026. Botswana gained independence in September 1966, while Lesotho marked its independence on October 4, 1966, underscoring over six decades of shared history and cooperation.