Lesotho Advances Digital Reform Through Communication Policy and Legal Framework Review Workshop

The Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation in Lesotho has launched a two-day consultation workshop focused on reviewing the Lesotho Communication Policy of 2008 and the Communications Act of 2012. The initiative brings together government officials, industry stakeholders, and technical experts to assess how the country’s communication framework can be strengthened to match current digital realities. The workshop reflects growing recognition that communication systems must evolve as technology, media consumption, and regulatory challenges continue to shift rapidly. It also signals a national effort to modernize laws that guide broadcasting, telecommunications, and digital communication services. The discussions aim to ensure that Lesotho remains aligned with regional and global developments in the communications sector.

Principal Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Kanono Ramashamole, is actively participating in the consultation process and contributing to the ongoing discussions. His involvement highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring that policy reform is not only technical but also inclusive and collaborative. Stakeholders at the workshop are engaging on issues such as regulatory efficiency, access to information, digital inclusion, and the role of communication infrastructure in economic growth. The review process also examines how existing legislation can better support innovation while protecting public interest. Participants are expected to identify gaps in the current framework and propose updates that reflect modern communication trends.

The Lesotho Communication Policy of 2008 and the Communications Act of 2012 were developed during a period when digital transformation was still emerging in many parts of the world. Since then, the communication landscape has changed significantly, driven by the expansion of mobile connectivity, social media platforms, and internet-based services. These developments have introduced new regulatory challenges that were not fully anticipated in earlier legislation. The workshop therefore serves as a platform to align national policy with present-day realities, including cybersecurity concerns, data protection needs, and the demand for universal access to digital services. It also provides an opportunity to ensure that rural and underserved communities are not left behind in the digital economy.

Key stakeholders attending the consultation include representatives from telecommunications companies, media houses, regulatory bodies, civil society organisations, and technical experts. Their participation is essential in shaping a balanced and practical communication framework that supports both innovation and accountability. The discussions are expected to address issues such as licensing systems, spectrum management, content regulation, and infrastructure development. Emphasis is also placed on improving service quality and affordability for consumers across the country. By bringing diverse perspectives into the review process, the Ministry aims to develop a communication framework that is both inclusive and sustainable.

The consultation workshop also reflects Lesotho’s broader commitment to building a knowledge-based economy driven by science, technology, and innovation. Communication systems are a critical foundation for this vision, as they enable access to education, business opportunities, and public services. Strengthening the legal and policy environment is seen as a necessary step toward attracting investment and encouraging digital entrepreneurship. The review process is expected to produce recommendations that will guide future amendments to national communication laws. These reforms will help ensure that the sector remains competitive and capable of supporting long-term development goals.

As the two-day workshop progresses, participants are expected to refine proposals that will shape the next phase of Lesotho’s communication sector transformation. The outcome of these discussions will play a key role in determining how the country adapts to rapid technological change while safeguarding the interests of its citizens. The Ministry’s approach highlights the importance of consultation and evidence-based policymaking in achieving meaningful reform. With active engagement from both government and industry stakeholders, the review process is positioned to deliver a more responsive and modern communication framework. The initiative marks an important step in strengthening Lesotho’s readiness for the evolving digital age and ensuring that its communication systems remain relevant, inclusive, and forward-looking.