AGP Executive Report

AI in Browsers: Google’s Ask Gemini in Chrome is rolling out to Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa, with Lesotho included among 55 supported African locales—bringing built-in help for searching and understanding information. Digital Government: Lesotho’s MICSTI has started a new digital studio at Makoanyane Square in Maseru, part of the E-Government Project Phase II, to boost content creation and youth skills. Census Tech: Lesotho says its digital 2026 Population and Housing Census kept “very good coverage” despite snow, network disruptions and extreme weather, using gadgets to cut errors and speed results. Energy + AI Investment: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn deal for a 1,200MW hydropower project plus an AI data centre near Kobong Dam, aiming to move from importing power to exporting renewables. Assistive Tech: Lesotho reports progress on assistive technology access for people with disabilities, including a national priority products list and low-cost device training, but says funding gaps remain. Cyber Security Diplomacy: Lesotho called for stronger African participation in shaping global cyber security and emerging tech rules, stressing civilian protection in cyberspace. Corruption Focus: Lesotho’s anti-corruption leadership says corruption blocks access to services and development, while Lesotho’s law reform talks aim to modernise outdated and discriminatory laws.

Digital Transformation in Maseru: MICSTI Minister Nthati Moorosi led a sod-turning for a new digital studio at Makoanyane Square and signed digital policies, positioning the project under E-Government Phase II to boost local content creation and innovation. Census Goes Digital: Finance Minister Rets’elisitsoe Matlanyane says Lesotho’s digital 2026 Population and Housing Census kept “very good coverage” despite snow, network disruptions and harsh weather, using gadgets to cut errors and improve data security. AI + Hydropower Deal: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn agreement with Convalt Energy for a 1,200MW hydropower project plus an AI data centre near Kobong Dam, aiming to move from importing electricity to exporting and to build energy-ready digital infrastructure. Assistive Tech Push: Lesotho reports progress on assistive technology access for persons with disabilities, including a National Priority Assistive Products List and a National Assistive Technology Policy, though funding and rollout gaps remain. STEM for Youth: LSMTA unveiled a six-member Lesotho team for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad in Côte d’Ivoire, with passport access flagged as a key hurdle. Cybersecurity Diplomacy: Lesotho called for greater African participation in shaping global cyber security and emerging technology discussions, stressing civilian protection in cyberspace during armed conflict.

Digital Transformation in Maseru: MICSTI Minister Nthati Moorosi led a sod-turning for a new digital studio at Makoanyane Square and signed digital policies, building on the E-Government Project Phase II and the UNIPOD studio model that offers content creators facilities and free internet. Drone Logistics Talks: Zipline says it’s trialling drone delivery services in Rwanda and is in “advanced talks” with Lesotho to expand deliveries across Africa, including livestock insemination. Energy + AI Leap: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn deal with Convalt Energy for a 1,200MW hydropower project and an AI data centre near Kobong Dam, aiming to move from importing power to exporting renewable electricity. Assistive Tech Progress: Lesotho reports gains in assistive technology access via a National Priority Assistive Products List and an Assistive Technology Policy, plus low-cost device making using recycled materials—though funding and rollout gaps remain. STEM for the Next Generation: Lesotho unveiled its team for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad, with STEAM-focused training and travel hurdles like passport access. Cybersecurity Participation: Lesotho called for greater African involvement in global cybersecurity and emerging technology discussions, stressing civilian protection in cyberspace during conflict. Corruption and Service Delivery: DCEO’s Sello Mants’o says corruption blocks citizens from services and drives poor-quality procurement, wasting funds meant for healthcare, education, roads and water.

Hydropower + AI push: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn deal with US renewable energy developer Convalt Energy for a 1,200MW hydropower project plus an AI data centre near Kobong Dam—aimed at moving from electricity imports to regional exports. Digital inclusion: Lesotho’s Digital Innovators Summit urged youth to embrace technology for public development, including AI and plans to digitise water systems with EU support. Assistive tech progress: Lesotho reported gains in assistive technology access through a National Priority Assistive Products List and a National Assistive Technology Policy, while noting funding and rollout gaps. Education for tech careers: Lesotho unveiled a six-member team for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad, with STEAM and robotics programmes supporting learners. Corruption impact: The DCEO warned that corruption in Lesotho blocks access to services and worsens infrastructure and procurement quality. Cyber safety diplomacy: Lesotho called for greater African participation in shaping global cybersecurity and emerging technology discussions. Regional tech links: Dubai Chambers met Lesotho’s Prime Minister to boost trade and investment cooperation, highlighting logistics, infrastructure and the digital economy.

Hydropower + AI push: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn deal with Convalt Energy for a 1,200MW hydropower project plus an AI data centre near Kobong Dam—aiming to move from importing electricity to exporting renewable power and building energy-linked digital capacity. Assistive tech progress: Lesotho says it has improved access for people with disabilities via a National Assistive Technology Policy, a priority products list, and low-cost device making (including customised aids using recycled materials), though funding and rollout gaps remain. Digital skills drive: Youth in Maseru were urged to embrace technology for public development at the Digital Innovators Summit, with digitising water systems and AI-focused discussions on how to stay safe online. STEM on the move: Lesotho unveiled a six-member team for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad, with passport hurdles addressed to keep learners on track. Law reform for inclusion: The Law Reform Commission consulted stakeholders to update outdated or discriminatory laws, stressing equality, human dignity, non-discrimination and access to justice. Corruption impact: The DCEO reiterated that corruption blocks access to basic services and worsens infrastructure quality by diverting funds and enabling poor procurement. Cybersecurity call: Lesotho urged stronger African participation in global cybersecurity and emerging-tech discussions, focusing on protecting civilians and applying international law in cyberspace.

Hydropower + AI push: Lesotho has signed a $6.2bn deal with Convalt Energy for a 1,200MW hydropower project plus an AI data centre near Kobong Dam—aiming to cut electricity imports and position the country as a regional power exporter. Digital skills drive: Maseru’s Digital Innovators Summit urged Basotho youth to embrace technology for public development, including digitising water systems with EU support and using AI responsibly. Assistive tech progress: Lesotho says it’s improving access to assistive technology through a national priority products list and an assistive technology policy, while funding and rollout gaps still limit wider reach. STEM for the next generation: Team Lesotho for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad was unveiled, and separate STEM outreach events (Curiosity Cube™) are inspiring learners across Southern Africa. Weather info that reaches people: A Lesotho Impact-Based Forecasting workshop highlighted bringing media into training so communities get practical, impact-focused warnings for disaster preparedness. Cybersecurity inclusion: Lesotho called for greater African participation in shaping global cyber security and emerging tech discussions, with a focus on protecting civilians and essential services.

Law Reform & Rights: Lesotho’s Ministry of Justice, via the Law Reform Commission, held a stakeholder workshop to review outdated and discriminatory laws, stressing gaps with constitutional equality, dignity, non-discrimination and access to justice—especially for women, people with disabilities and minority communities. Energy + AI Push: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn deal with Convalt Energy for a 1,200MW hydropower project plus an AI data centre near Kobong Dam, aiming to move from importing electricity to exporting renewable power and building energy-linked digital capacity. Assistive Tech Progress: Lesotho reported gains in assistive technology access through a National Priority Assistive Products List and a National Assistive Technology Policy/Strategy, plus low-cost device making via the Physiotherapy Outreach Programme—while noting funding and rollout limits. Digital Skills for Youth: At the Digital Innovators Summit in Maseru, youth were urged to embrace technology for public development and safer digital participation, with plans to digitise water systems supported by the EU. Science Education Boost: Lesotho unveiled a six-member team for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad, with STEAM and robotics programmes supporting learners ahead of the June 26–July 4 event. Cybersecurity Diplomacy: Lesotho called for greater African participation in shaping global cybersecurity and emerging-tech discussions, focusing on protecting civilians and essential services in cyberspace.

Lesotho–UAE Trade Push: Dubai Chambers met Lesotho’s Prime Minister Samuel Matekane in Johannesburg to explore stronger trade and investment ties, with a focus on logistics, infrastructure and the digital economy. Assistive Tech Progress: Lesotho says it has improved access to assistive technology through a National Priority Assistive Products List and a National Assistive Technology Policy, but funding and rollout gaps still limit wider reach. STEM Talent Pipeline: Lesotho’s Science and Mathematics Teachers Association unveiled a six-member team for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad in Côte d’Ivoire, aiming to grow problem-solving skills through STEAM clubs and competitions. Digital Skills for Youth: Maseru’s Digital Innovators Summit urged Basotho youth to embrace technology for public development and safer digital participation, including practical thinking around AI. Energy + AI Ambition: Lesotho signed a 98 billion-maloti Project Kobong deal for 1,200MW hydropower plus an integrated AI data centre, targeting greater energy independence and regional power exports. Cybersecurity Call: Lesotho urged greater African participation in global cybersecurity and emerging tech discussions, stressing civilian protection and international law in cyberspace. Weather Forecasting for Disasters: A Lesotho Meteorological Services workshop highlighted involving the media in impact-based forecasting so communities get timely, actionable warnings.

Assistive Tech Push: Lesotho says it has improved access for people with disabilities via a National Assistive Technology Policy, a priority products list, and low-cost device training—though funding and rollout gaps still limit reach. STEM & Maths Talent: Lesotho unveiled a six-member team for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad, with passport hurdles being one of the main prep challenges. Digital Skills for Youth: A Maseru summit urged Basotho to embrace technology for public development and safer digital participation, including AI’s role in ideas and services. Energy + AI Infrastructure: Lesotho signed a 98 billion-maloti Project Kobong deal for 1,200MW hydropower plus an integrated AI data centre, aiming to move from importing electricity to exporting. Cybersecurity Voice: Lesotho called for greater African participation in global cyber security and emerging tech discussions, stressing civilian protection under international law. Trade Links: Dubai Chambers met Lesotho’s PM to explore stronger investment ties, highlighting logistics, infrastructure and the digital economy. Regional Health Tech Safety: A forum in Nairobi discussed safe use of nuclear and radiation technologies in healthcare, with Lesotho among participating countries.

Digital Skills & Youth Tech: Lesotho’s Digital Innovators Summit in Maseru urged Basotho youth to embrace technology for public development, with officials highlighting plans to digitise water systems and the role of AI in shaping ideas and services. Energy + AI Infrastructure: A 98 billion-maloti Project Kobong deal signed with Convalt Energy targets 1,200MW of hydropower plus an integrated AI data centre, aiming to cut electricity dependence and build energy-linked digital capacity. Water & Forecasting for Disasters: A Mohale’s Hoek workshop on Impact-Based Forecasting pushed for better media involvement so weather impacts reach communities faster, supporting anticipatory action and climate risk management. Cybersecurity Diplomacy: Lesotho called for stronger African participation in global cybersecurity and emerging technology discussions, stressing civilian protection and international law in cyberspace. Science Capacity Building: Armscor is hosting African scientists for an analytical chemistry programme under the Chemical Weapons Convention to boost regional lab skills. Corrosion Tech in Infrastructure: Nanoflake coatings are being used in Lesotho Highlands Water Project tunnel refurbishment to improve corrosion resistance and extend asset life. E-Commerce + AI Training: Sebabatso alumni in Maseru received e-commerce and AI-powered marketing training to help local businesses sell beyond Lesotho. Health, Nuclear Safety: A regional forum in Nairobi discussed safe use of nuclear and radiation technologies in healthcare, including regulatory strengthening with Lesotho among participants. Water Crisis Letter: An open letter from Crosby residents in Johannesburg complains of daily water interruptions despite public assurances.

Energy & AI Infrastructure: Convalt Energy and Lesotho’s Ministry of Energy signed a 98 billion-maloti deal for 1,200MW hydropower plus an integrated AI data centre under Project Kobong—aiming to cut electricity imports and build digital capacity for energy-intensive AI. Digital Skills for Youth: Lesotho’s Digital Innovators Summit in Maseru urged Basotho youth to embrace technology for public development, with officials highlighting plans to digitise water systems and the role of AI in shaping ideas. Tech, Trade & Investment Links: Dubai Chambers met Lesotho’s Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane in Johannesburg to explore stronger trade and investment ties, pointing to Dubai expertise in logistics, infrastructure and the digital economy. Cybersecurity & Civilian Protection: Lesotho called for greater African participation in global cybersecurity discussions, stressing how emerging technologies and cyber operations affect civilians during armed conflict. Science Capacity Building: Armscor will host 21 African scientists for an analytical chemistry course under the Chemical Weapons Convention to strengthen regional lab skills. Public Health Risk at World Cup: Experts warn the World Cup could raise infectious disease exposure concerns amid worries about weakened US public health capacity. Agriculture Empowerment: Zimbabwe’s WIFE Food for Life festival spotlighted women farmers and entrepreneurship, using forum theatre to tackle barriers like land and market access.

US Aid Pressure on Health Data: Bloomberg reports new US foreign aid terms for Lesotho include “preferential consideration” for US tech and approvals, tax exemptions for US-paid work, and access to Lesotho medical data (later reduced from 25 to five years), after funding cuts threatened HIV and TB services. Energy + AI Push: Convalt Energy and Lesotho’s Ministry of Energy signed a 98bn maloti deal for 1,200MW hydropower plus an integrated AI data centre under Project Kobong, aiming to cut electricity imports and build digital capacity. Digital Skills for Youth: Maseru’s Digital Innovators Summit urged Basotho youth to embrace technology for public development and safer online participation, with officials linking digitisation to water security and AI’s practical role. Cybersecurity Participation: Lesotho called for greater African involvement in shaping global cyber security and emerging-tech discussions, stressing protection of civilians and essential services in cyberspace during conflict. Corrosion Tech in LHWP: Nanoflake glassflake-reinforced coatings are being used in Lesotho Highlands Water Project tunnel refurbishment, with claims of longer corrosion protection for major steel linings. Weather Forecasts Reaching Communities: A Mohale’s Hoek workshop on Impact-Based Forecasting says involving the media will help deliver forecasts with clear community actions for disaster preparedness. Regional Nuclear Safety Talks: Health and regulatory officials from across the region met in Nairobi to strengthen nuclear and radiation safety systems for healthcare. Floating Solar Feasibility: LHDA seeks a consultant to study floating PV on Katse and Mohale reservoirs to reduce land-use conflicts and dependence on electricity imports.

Energy + AI Infrastructure: Lesotho signed a 98-billion-maloti deal with Convalt Energy for Project Kobong—1,200MW of hydropower plus an integrated AI data centre—aiming to cut electricity imports and position the country as a regional energy and digital hub. Digital Skills for Youth: In Maseru, the Digital Innovators Summit urged Basotho youth to embrace technology and AI for public development, while also stressing digital safety and trust-building. Cybersecurity + Civilian Protection: Lesotho called for stronger African participation in global cybersecurity talks, focusing on how emerging tech and cyber operations affect civilians during armed conflict. Chemistry Capacity Building: Armscor is hosting 21 scientists from 16 African countries for an Analytical Chemistry course under the Chemical Weapons Convention to boost regional lab skills. Water + Weather Resilience: Lesotho Meteorological Services is training disaster managers on Impact-Based Forecasting, with a push to involve the media so communities get actionable warnings. Corrosion Tech in National Projects: Nanoflake coatings are being used in Lesotho Highlands Water Project tunnel refurbishments, targeting longer corrosion protection for critical infrastructure. Regional Health Safety: A forum in Nairobi brought together regulators to strengthen nuclear and radiation safety for healthcare across multiple countries, including Lesotho.

Nanoflake Corrosion Tech for LHWP: Corrocoat South Africa says its Nanoflake glassflake-reinforced coating is being used in Lesotho Highlands Water Project tunnel refurbishment, including transfer and delivery tunnels plus steel linings, aiming to extend corrosion protection for decades. Nuclear Safety in Healthcare: Regional health and nuclear regulators met in Nairobi to strengthen safe use of nuclear and radiation technologies in medicine, with Lesotho among participating countries. Cybersecurity & Civilians: Lesotho urged deeper African participation in shaping global cybersecurity and emerging-tech discussions, stressing protection of civilians and essential services during armed conflict. Lesotho Weather Forecasting Gets a Media Push: A Lesotho Meteorological Services workshop on impact-based forecasting says future training should include media so communities receive actionable warnings for disaster preparedness. Digital Skills for Youth: Sebabatso alumni and other youth in Maseru trained in e-commerce and AI-powered marketing, while Quthing’s ICT hub ran final exams for basic computer skills. Floating Solar Feasibility: LHDA seeks a consultancy for a floating PV feasibility study for Katse and Mohale reservoirs to cut energy import dependence.

Nuclear Safety for Healthcare: Senior health officials from nine African countries met in Nairobi to strengthen nuclear and radiation safety systems for medical use, with the KNRA and the IAEA pushing for shared regulatory capacity and an action plan. Impact-Based Forecasting in Lesotho: Lesotho Meteorological Services is training disaster managers and forecasters in Impact-Based Forecasting, and says involving the media will help communities receive timely, practical impact information for preparedness. Indigenous Knowledge Policy: SADC convened a regional hybrid meeting to advance a Regional Indigenous Knowledge Systems policy and strategy, aiming to preserve, protect, use and commercialise indigenous knowledge for innovation and integration. Aviation Standards Workshop: Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority and SADC Aviation Safety Organisation hosted an ICAO workshop on Aircraft and Pavement Classification Rating (ACR/PCR) for harmonised runway and apron assessment across 12 countries, including Lesotho. Lesotho Waste Crisis: An Ombudsman report warns 80% of Lesotho’s waste is uncollected, with illegal dumping and open burning driving pollution and healthcare risks from unmanaged sharps. Kao Mine Care & Maintenance: Storm Mountain Diamonds says Lesotho’s Kao Mine will shut down from June 30 due to fuel cost shocks and a slump in rough diamond prices, worsened by synthetic diamond competition. Digital Skills for Youth: SOS Quthing Digital Community Hub ran ICT exams for youth completing basic computer training, with certificates and a push to close the district’s digital gap.

Football Admin Crisis: South Africa’s Safa is slammed after Bafana Bafana’s 2026 World Cup departure was delayed by unresolved visa issues, with officials warning the federation is “making the country look like fools.” Weather Tech for Safety: Lesotho Meteorological Services is running Impact-Based Forecasting training and says future sessions must include the media so communities get actionable warnings for disaster preparedness. STEM Outreach: Merck’s Curiosity Cube™ brought hands-on synthetic biology lessons to students in Southern Africa, including Pretoria, using Cubelets and other learning gadgets to spark STEM careers. Indigenous Knowledge Policy: SADC convened a hybrid meeting to push a regional Indigenous Knowledge Systems policy and strategy, aiming to protect, use and commercialise local knowledge for innovation and development. Lesotho Digital Skills: Sebabatso alumni in Maseru started an e-commerce and AI-powered marketing training to help Basotho businesses sell beyond Lesotho. Energy Planning: LHDA seeks a consultancy for a floating solar feasibility study on Katse and Mohale reservoirs, targeting reduced energy import dependence. Waste Management Alarm: Lesotho’s Ombudsman reports 80% of waste goes uncollected into illegal dumps and open burning, with healthcare waste risks highlighted.