Lesotho Strengthens Digital Identity and Civil Registration Through New UNICEF Partnership

The Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation (MICSTI) has taken a significant step to modernize Lesotho’s civil registration and digital identity systems through a strategic partnership with UNICEF. The signing of the 2026 Annual Work Plan under the Lesotho–UNICEF Programme of Cooperation 2025–2028 marks a renewed commitment to advancing secure and efficient identity services. This initiative aims to create an integrated national digital identity ecosystem that supports the delivery of critical services such as national ID and passport renewal, biometric registration, and proof-of-life verification. By streamlining these processes, the programme seeks to reduce administrative delays and improve accessibility for citizens across the country. It also ensures that expired identity documents are updated in a timely manner, enhancing both service delivery and citizen trust.

The work plan prioritizes the implementation of advanced technologies to strengthen identity verification for a range of public and private services. This includes financial transactions where robust identity checks are essential to prevent fraud, money laundering, and other illicit activities. By integrating digital verification mechanisms, the programme will enhance transparency in financial flows and increase confidence in the national system. The initiative also aims to support inclusive access, allowing all citizens, including those in remote areas, to benefit from secure and reliable identity services. Digital solutions will ensure that registration processes are not only faster but also safer, reducing the risk of identity theft and administrative errors.

Deployment of digital public infrastructure under the plan leverages the Modular Open Source Identity Platform (MOSIP) to provide secure authentication across government and private-sector services. MOSIP enables mobile-based verification, allowing citizens to access services conveniently and safely from their devices. This approach aligns with the National Strategic Development Plan II and the National Social Protection Strategy II, which emphasize digital transformation and social protection through innovative technology. By integrating MOSIP into national systems, Lesotho is positioning itself to create a modern, interoperable digital identity ecosystem that can adapt to future technological advancements. This infrastructure will also facilitate coordination among government agencies, financial institutions, and service providers.

The partnership underscores the importance of collaboration between government institutions and international organizations to achieve sustainable development goals. The Annual Work Plan was signed by Principal Secretary Mr Kanono Ramashamole on behalf of MICSTI and UNICEF representative Mr Deepak Bhaskaran. The ceremony was witnessed by Director-General ICT Mr Thapeli Tjabane and UNICEF Technology for Development Specialist Mr Ramoletane Lekhanya, highlighting the multi-level commitment to advancing Lesotho’s digital capabilities. This collaboration ensures technical support, capacity building, and knowledge transfer, creating a strong foundation for long-term improvements in civil registration and identity services.

By advancing digital identity systems, Lesotho is laying the groundwork for more efficient governance, enhanced financial inclusion, and improved public service delivery. The initiative will streamline citizen interactions with government services, support secure financial transactions, and strengthen oversight mechanisms. It represents a key step toward a more connected and technologically resilient society, where citizens can access essential services quickly and securely. With UNICEF’s support, MICSTI is creating a modern framework that protects personal data while promoting innovation and inclusion. This programme positions Lesotho as a leader in digital identity implementation in the region, ensuring that its civil registration and identity infrastructure meets international standards and serves the needs of all citizens.