Lesotho Launches National Data Value Creation Blueprint to Accelerate Digital Transformation

Lesotho has taken a significant step towards building a modern digital economy with the launch of the First National Brainstorming Workshop on the Data Value Creation Blueprint. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation (MICSTI) in collaboration with Smart Africa and GIZ, positions data as a strategic national resource that can drive innovation, improve governance and support sustainable development. The two day workshop, taking place in Maseru from 14 to 15 July 2026, marks the beginning of a collaborative process to develop a national framework that will strengthen the country’s data ecosystem. The initiative also places Lesotho among the first African nations to develop such a blueprint, highlighting its commitment to embracing digital transformation. By investing in a structured data framework, the country aims to unlock new opportunities for economic growth, better public services and informed decision making.

The workshop has brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from across Lesotho, including representatives from government ministries, private sector organisations, academic institutions, civil society and international development partners. This broad participation reflects the understanding that building a strong national data ecosystem requires cooperation across multiple sectors. Participants are working together to identify priorities, opportunities and challenges that will shape the country’s Data Value Creation Blueprint. Their collective expertise is expected to help create a practical and sustainable framework that responds to Lesotho’s specific needs. The collaborative approach also ensures that the blueprint will support inclusive development while encouraging innovation across different industries.

Lesotho’s selection alongside Senegal and Kenya as one of the first countries in Africa to develop a Data Value Creation Blueprint demonstrates growing confidence in the country’s digital ambitions. This recognition highlights Lesotho’s commitment to using reliable data as a foundation for innovation, economic development and effective governance. Data has become one of the world’s most valuable resources because it enables governments and businesses to make informed decisions based on evidence rather than assumptions. As countries continue investing in digital technologies, those with strong data systems are better positioned to improve public services, attract investment and create new economic opportunities. Lesotho’s participation in this pioneering initiative places it at the forefront of digital policy development on the African continent.

Opening the workshop, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr. Kanono Ramashamole, described the Data Value Creation Blueprint as a critical building block for the country’s digital future. He stressed that establishing an effective data ecosystem is essential for the success of the Ministry’s ongoing digital transformation programmes. According to Mr. Ramashamole, initiatives such as electronic government services and Artificial Intelligence infrastructure cannot function efficiently without reliable, secure and accessible data systems. He emphasised that the blueprint is not simply another policy document but the cornerstone upon which many future digital initiatives will depend. His remarks highlighted the strategic importance of investing in data management before expanding advanced digital services.

Mr. Ramashamole explained that a strong national data ecosystem will significantly improve the government’s ability to make informed decisions and develop evidence based policies. Reliable data enables policymakers to identify challenges more accurately, monitor progress and allocate resources where they are needed most. Better access to trusted information can also improve service delivery by helping public institutions respond more effectively to the needs of citizens. As governments increasingly rely on digital systems, the quality of available data becomes critical for ensuring transparency, accountability and efficiency. The Data Value Creation Blueprint is therefore expected to strengthen governance while creating greater confidence in public decision making.

The Principal Secretary further noted that the benefits of the blueprint extend well beyond digital transformation alone. He explained that improved access to quality data can contribute to national development priorities, including better protection of vulnerable children through improved educational planning and expanded learning opportunities. Reliable information allows governments to identify communities in need, monitor educational outcomes and develop targeted interventions that produce measurable results. Better use of data can also improve healthcare planning, social protection programmes and infrastructure development. These wider benefits demonstrate how effective data management can directly improve the quality of life for citizens across the country.

Mr. Ramashamole also highlighted the blueprint’s role in strengthening key government functions such as policymaking, regulation and national planning. Reliable and accessible data provides a stronger foundation for designing laws, regulations and development strategies that respond to real challenges. In addition, accurate information allows governments and development partners to make smarter investment decisions by identifying sectors with the greatest potential for growth and impact. Better data can also improve project monitoring and evaluation, ensuring that public resources are used efficiently. These improvements are expected to strengthen institutional capacity while supporting long term national development goals.

Another important objective of the Data Value Creation Blueprint is to strengthen Lesotho’s digital identity systems while creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses. A well developed data ecosystem can support secure digital identification, making it easier for citizens to access government services and participate in the digital economy. Businesses can also benefit from trusted data through improved market insights, innovation and the development of new digital products and services. As digital industries continue expanding across Africa, access to reliable information will become increasingly important for competitiveness and job creation. By establishing the right framework today, Lesotho aims to position itself for future economic opportunities driven by technology and innovation.

In his welcoming remarks, Director of ICT Mr. Khiba Masiu said the National Data Value Creation Blueprint reflects Lesotho’s commitment to using data as a powerful driver of national development. He explained that the framework will strengthen data governance while encouraging trusted data sharing among institutions and stakeholders. According to Mr. Masiu, the initiative will stimulate innovation, improve the delivery of public services and support inclusive economic growth across the country. Strong governance systems are essential for ensuring that data is collected, stored and shared responsibly while protecting privacy and maintaining public trust. His remarks reinforced the importance of balancing innovation with responsible data management practices.

The launch of the First National Brainstorming Workshop on the Data Value Creation Blueprint marks an important milestone in Lesotho’s digital transformation journey. By working closely with Smart Africa, GIZ and a wide range of national stakeholders, the country is laying the foundation for a modern data ecosystem that supports innovation, evidence based policymaking and sustainable economic development. The initiative demonstrates Lesotho’s determination to harness the power of data to improve governance, strengthen public services and create new opportunities for businesses and citizens alike. As one of the first African countries to develop this comprehensive framework, Lesotho is positioning itself as a leader in data driven development. The successful implementation of the blueprint has the potential to transform the country’s digital landscape while creating lasting social and economic benefits for future generations.