Lesotho reviews Road Transport Act of 1981 through nationwide public consultations

The government of Lesotho has launched a national review of its Road Transport Act of 1981. The review aims to update a law that has guided road transport operations for decades but now shows gaps in modern transport needs. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport has acknowledged that many sections of the Act no longer reflect current road usage, safety expectations, and commercial transport realities. This process brings together government officials, transport operators, and members of the public to share input. It also signals a structured effort to modernise transport regulation across the country.

The Road Transport Act of 1981 was last amended in 2001, yet the transport sector has changed significantly since then. More goods move across districts, passenger transport has expanded, and informal transport activity has grown. These changes have created pressure on an outdated legal framework that struggles to regulate modern conditions effectively. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport has stated that the review will focus on identifying outdated clauses and replacing them with practical and enforceable provisions. The goal is to create a law that supports safety, efficiency, and fair competition in the transport sector.

The consultation process started in the Thaba-Tseka district on Monday, June 1, marking the first stage of a wider national outreach programme. Officials are engaging directly with transport operators, including passenger vehicle traders and goods transport businesses. These discussions allow stakeholders to explain challenges they face under the current law and suggest improvements. The ministry uses these sessions to gather structured feedback that will guide future amendments. The process is expected to continue across nine additional districts, ensuring that input reflects the diversity of transport conditions in the country.

The consultation schedule covers several key locations and dates across June 2026. Sessions will be held on 3 to 4 June in Maseru and Berea, followed by an additional engagement on 8 June in court sessions. On 10 to 11 June, consultations will take place in Ribe and Butha Buthe. The programme continues on 16 to 17 June in Mohale’s Hoek, Mafeteng, and Quthing. The final listed session is set for 29 June in Qacha’s Nek. Each session is designed to give local stakeholders direct access to decision makers and allow detailed discussions on transport law reform.

The review process plays a key role in shaping a modern transport system that responds to real conditions on the ground. Traders and transport operators have an opportunity to influence rules that affect licensing, road safety compliance, and goods movement. Public participation ensures that the revised law does not rely only on administrative perspectives but includes lived experience from the transport sector. This approach can help reduce inefficiencies and improve enforcement clarity once new regulations are adopted. It also strengthens trust between government and industry stakeholders by making the process more transparent and inclusive.

The nationwide consultation on the Road Transport Act of 1981 marks an important step in legal reform within Lesotho. The government continues to gather input before finalising proposed changes that will update transport governance for current and future needs. The involvement of stakeholders across multiple districts ensures that regional differences are considered in the final recommendations. Once completed, the review is expected to guide a more modern and responsive transport framework. The process reinforces the importance of updating long-standing legislation to match changing economic and transport realities.