Lesotho Strengthens Public Service Capacity Ahead of AAPAM 2026 Round Table Conference

The Ministry of the Public Service in the Kingdom of Lesotho has taken a major step in preparing for a significant continental event by holding an induction programme for sub-committees tasked with organizing the African Association for Public Administration and Management (AAPAM) Round Table Conference scheduled for December 2026. The conference, which Lesotho will host from 8 to 10 December 2026, is expected to bring together leading public administration experts, policymakers, and senior government officials from across Africa. The induction programme was designed to ensure that all teams involved in the planning process are well equipped with the knowledge, coordination skills, and operational understanding needed to deliver a successful event. The initiative reflects Lesotho’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity and showcasing effective public service management on a continental stage. It also highlights the importance of early preparation in ensuring that large-scale international conferences are executed to the highest standards.

Delivering opening remarks on behalf of the Principal Secretary, Deputy Principal Secretary Mr. Ntsu Shale emphasized the importance of preparing sub-committees through structured induction and training. He explained that the programme aims to equip participants with the practical knowledge required to effectively carry out their responsibilities in the lead-up to the conference. According to Mr. Shale, each sub-committee plays a critical role in ensuring that the event is well coordinated, from logistics and communications to protocol and stakeholder engagement. He stressed that proper preparation would not only improve efficiency but also enhance Lesotho’s reputation as a capable host of international events. His remarks underscored the government’s focus on professionalism, coordination, and results-driven planning within the public service.

Mr. Shale also highlighted Lesotho’s membership in the African Association for Public Administration and Management African Association for Public Administration and Management, an institution established to strengthen public administration systems and improve service delivery across the continent. He explained that the organization plays a key role in promoting knowledge sharing, research, and capacity building among African public service institutions. Lesotho’s active participation in AAPAM reflects its commitment to regional cooperation and continuous improvement in governance practices. By hosting the Round Table Conference, the country positions itself at the center of continental discussions on public sector reform and administrative excellence. This engagement reinforces Lesotho’s dedication to advancing effective governance systems that meet the needs of its citizens.

The Deputy Principal Secretary further noted that while Public Service Day is celebrated globally on 23 June under the United Nations framework, Lesotho commemorates the occasion in November. This distinction reflects the country’s unique approach to recognizing the importance of public servants and their role in national development. He added that it is a significant honour for Lesotho to host the AAPAM conference in the same year that the country marks 60 years of independence. This milestone adds symbolic importance to the event, linking national progress with continental collaboration. It also provides an opportunity for Lesotho to showcase its achievements in governance and public administration over six decades of independence.

Emphasizing the importance of service delivery, Mr. Shale reminded participants that public service is fundamentally about serving the people. He stressed that every structure, process, and decision within the public administration system must ultimately contribute to improving the lives of citizens. The induction programme, he noted, would allow for detailed discussions on the roles and responsibilities of each sub-committee to ensure clarity and accountability. Such discussions are expected to improve coordination and reduce inefficiencies during the planning and execution phases of the conference. His message reinforced the principle that effective public service is measured by outcomes that benefit the public directly.

The upcoming AAPAM Round Table Conference is expected to serve as a major platform for dialogue on governance and public sector reform across Africa. The event will bring together experts, policymakers, and government officials to exchange ideas on improving public administration systems and enhancing service delivery outcomes. Discussions are likely to focus on innovation, institutional reform, leadership development, and strategies for strengthening accountability in government institutions. Lesotho’s role as host places it in a strategic position to contribute to and shape these continental conversations. The conference also offers an opportunity for the country to build stronger networks with other African states and international partners.

As preparations continue, the induction programme represents a foundational step in ensuring that all planning structures are aligned, informed, and ready to deliver a successful event. It reflects a broader commitment by the Ministry of the Public Service to strengthen coordination and improve institutional performance. By investing in capacity building at an early stage, Lesotho aims to ensure that the conference meets international standards and leaves a lasting positive impression on delegates. The initiative also demonstrates the government’s recognition of the importance of collaboration, planning, and professional execution in public sector operations. Ultimately, the success of the AAPAM Round Table Conference will depend on the effectiveness of these preparatory efforts and the dedication of all involved stakeholders.