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Central Training Hub for Teachers launched 

Mamello Mochesane
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Central Training Hub for Teachers launched 

Maseru – Vodacom Lesotho Foundation and the Lesotho College of Education (LCE) launched an ambitious ICT teacher training project on Thursday. This initiative aims to equip educators with essential digital skills, addressing the disparities in digital education which were starkly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event began with a notable announcement from Rethabile Khanyane, Registrar at LCE who expressed the institution’s enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are thrilled to witness the launch of the ICT teacher training project between Vodacom Lesotho Foundation and our college. Today we will sign a memorandum of understanding to seal this ground-breaking initiative,” Khanyane stated. 

This formal agreement signifies a pivotal step towards integrating digital literacy into the teaching framework, ensuring educators are well-prepared to navigate the demands of modern education.

Mrs. Pinki Mokoena, from Vodacom Foundation, highlighted the broader scope of the Foundation’s work, “while our initiative today focuses primarily on education, our efforts also extend to health, gender equality, and disaster relief. The main objective of the ICT teacher training is to enhance the delivery of learning by providing digital skills to learners.”

Mokoena also announced a partnership with Computer Business Solutions (CBS) which specializes in digital learning.

Mokoena announced that 2,000 teachers will be trained under this initiative, “we aim to train both in-service and pre-service teachers, ensuring no one is left behind.”

Reflecting on the disparities witnessed during the pandemic, Mokoena said, “public school students were unable to learn online while their counterparts in private schools continued their education. Our foundation is committed to bridging this gap.” 

The collaboration is set to span five years with a provision for renewal based on ongoing needs. In addition to the ICT training project, Mokoena announced the launch of the Vodacom Bursary, focusing on STEM subjects – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Mr. Tšepo Ntaopane, Executive Head of Department at Vodacom, acknowledged the international support for the project. “Some of the funding comes from Vodafone in the United Kingdom. We will soon be launching a software program project as well,” Ntaopane revealed. 

Mr. Moeketsi Letele, Rector of LCE, spoke passionately about the college’s strategic plan for 2022-2027. 

“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards equipping our nation’s educators with the essential digital skills to navigate the rapidly evolving technological landscape,” Letele said. 

He highlighted the benefits of access to online resources, innovative teaching methodologies, and cutting-edge tools, which will empower lecturers to guide students effectively in the 21st century. Letele called on all stakeholders and the broader community to embrace this transformative opportunity and actively participate in the digital evolution of education.

Hon. Nthati Moorosi, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, urged LCE to incorporate online courses and seminars into their curriculum.

“Our challenge as the ministry is to ensure there is a legal framework to cover artificial intelligence,” Moorosi stated. She underlined the importance of regulatory measures in this digital era.

Minister Moorosi also extended gratitude to Vodacom Foundation for their vital role in making this vision a reality.

PRESS RELEASE

Lesotho Tribune
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PRESS RELEASE

Zaga Bet officially launched their sports betting operation in Lesotho

Attention, sports fans of Lesotho! Prepare to embark on an electrifying journey into the heart of betting excitement with the grand arrival of Zaga Bet. Rooted in the vibrant spirit of Africa, Zaga Bet is not just a betting platform, it’s a celebration of the passion and energy that define our continent.

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RFP parliamentary caucus wants BAP removed from coalition govt 

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RFP parliamentary caucus wants BAP removed from coalition govt 

Maseru – Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) parliamentary caucus is in session starting 12:00 noon. It is going to discuss the working relationship between Basotho Action Party (BAP).

According to sources close to issues, the agenda items are the relationship between the leader of BAP and minister of energy, Professor Nqosa Mahao and member of parliament of RFP for Koro – Koro Constituency, Hon. Abinyane Julias Mahatanya, which are reportedly broken beyond repair.

It is reported that majority of RFP backbenchers are fed up with BAP behaviour, in the main, its leader Prof. Nqosa Mahao who doesn’t inform Hon. Mahatanya when he (Prof. Mahao) visits the Koro – Koro constituency on government business. 

“Hon. Mahatanya camp have demanded that BAP be removed as a coalition partner with immediate effect..” our source said.

The second agenda item is on the Pan – African parliament. It is reported that cabinet (executive) wants member of parliament for RFP Hon. Lephoi Makara, who has been appointed to the Pan – African Parliament be removed because he’s voting with the “wrong” block.

This is a developing story.

Gem Diamonds tug-of-war persists

Tebello Kokome
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Gem Diamonds tug-of-war persists

Maseru

Seven working days has elapsed, and it would appear that the Right Honorable Kime Badenoch has not delivered a response to Yearn for Economic Sustainability (YES) with regards to their request to have Gem Diamonds deregistered. The Secretary of State for Business and Trade had acknowledged receipt of the letter dated 13 May 2024 from YES, which she responded, saying she would provide a response within 7 working days and she did not stick to her word.

On the other hand, when YES first approached Lets’eng Diamonds with their concerns stating that they have violated the Mines and Mineral Act, 2005 Section 11 to which YES was not ‘convinced’. Chief Executive Officer of Lets’eng Diamonds, Mr Motooane Thinyane responded to YES in the following manner: 

• He affirmed that they have received the letter written to them on 31 January 2024 that entailed an injunction.

• His counsel was that YES should reevaluate the details for better comprehension.

• Lets’eng is not compelled to advertise the seeking of qualified Basotho more so if they have the ability to perform those tasks themselves.

• The decision was reached through required procedures and governance structures.

• Lets’eng is a corporate citizen and carries out its operations in conformity to the Mines and Minerals Act, 2005.

As means to further gain more insight on the matter, the following question were posed to Mr. Thinyane, and this was his stance:

Q:  The current mining lease which Lets’eng has with government of Lesotho spells 8.4.2 that Lets’eng will increase the local procurement from 80% to 90%. Using this clause as an example, after the decision to insource mining activities from MMIC, is Lets’eng still compliant?

A:  The correct wording of 8.4.2 should be cited as is in the agreement, as below. The mining agreement obliges the Mining company to “take reasonable steps” and to continue “continue to take all reasonable steps” in relation to procurement of goods and services. The in-sourcing of mining activities is one of the reasonable steps taken by the company. Further to that, clause 8.4.2 should not be read in isolation.

8.4.2     “The Mining Company shall take all reasonable steps to acquire by value at least 80% (eighty percent) from Basotho and/or companies that are majority owned and controlled by Basotho and shall continue to take all reasonable steps to maintain local procurement of goods and services at current levels which are in excess of 90% (ninety percent)’’.

Q:  Did Lets’eng get an approval from the Commissioner of Mines to insource the mining activities from MMIC?

A:  There is no requirement for any mining company to obtain approval from the Commissioner of Mines to insource any of its operational activities.

Q: For the FY 2023- 2024 how much value added tax did Lets’eng claim from RSL?

A: Details of our financial transactions and records are not for public consumption.

With the current status whereby, the Secretary has not delivered a response Mr Molefi Ntsonyana said, “we have played our part in trying to resolve the matter as discreetly as possible. Our hand has been forced and we have no choice but to take the matter to court”. 

He added that they will further request the court order that Lets’eng should not be allowed to sell the diamonds they mine, pending the completion of the case because those diamonds will be regarded as “blood diamonds”, said Mr. Ntsonyana. In addition, they will also write to the London Stock Exchange to inform them of this debacle.

Manonyane FC Triumphs in Tribunal And Avoids Relegation From The VodacomPremier League

Litsitso Letsunyane
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Manonyane FC Triumphs in Tribunal And Avoids Relegation From The VodacomPremier League

On Tuesday, May 21st, a football tribunal at the headquarters of the Lesotho Football Association, Bambatha Tšita, ruled in favor of Manonyane Football Club in a contentious dispute against Liphakoe Football Club. The tribunal, overseen by DISPROCO, found that Liphakoe had fielded an ineligible player, Thabang Mofihli, during a crucial match in week 28 of the Vodacom Premier League (VPL) season, where Liphakoe FC defeated Manonyane FC 2-0.

Manonyane FC, facing potential relegation to the A Division after losing a head-to-head tiebreaker with ACE Maseru and CCX, lodged a formal complaint seeking redress for what they viewed as a breach ofpremier league rules. They argued that Thabang Mofihli was ineligible to play for Liphakoe FC, as he had initially been registered with Roma Boys (A Division Team) at the start of the season. The discrepancy, Manonyane FC pointed out, lay in the registration details: Mofihli’s middle name appeared in Liphakoe’s records but was absent from Roma Boys’ registration.

As part of their evidence, Manonyane presented a letter from Limkokwing University FC, indicating that Mofihli was loaned to Liphakoe FC on August 28, 2023, on a half-year loan set to expire on December 31, 2023. Manonyane argued that since there was no extension for this loan, Mofihli should have returned to Limkokwing University FC, rendering his participation in the match against them illegitimate.

Liphakoe FC countered the allegations, asserting that they had adhered to proper transfer procedures when acquiring Mofihli from Limkokwing University FC. They expressed shock at the claim that Mofihli was also registered with Roma Boys. Liphakoe sought to introduce witnesses from Roma Boys to testify, but the court disallowed this, noting that these witnesses had already been present in the courtroom and had listened to prior testimonies, which could compromise their impartiality.

In a related development, CCX FC, another club being relegated from the VPL, petitioned the court to also grant them 3 points and 3 goals, citing Mofihli’s participation in their match against Liphakoe FC. However, the court dismissed their claim, stating that they should have filed a protest in accordance with VPL rules at an earlier stage.

Ultimately, the tribunal ruled in favor of Manonyane FC, awarding them 3 points and 3 goals from the disputed match. This decision allowed Manonyane FC to retain their status in the Premier League, while CCX FC faced relegation to the A Division. The ruling underscored the critical importance of adherence topremier league rules and regulations and their consequences, this decision did not only impact the immediate futures of Manonyane FC and CCX but also set a significant precedent for how player registration issues should be handled in the VPL, ensuring that clubs are diligent in their administrative processes to avoid similar disputes in the future.

Parliament Demands Immediate Implementation of Business Licensing and Registration Regulations

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Parliament Demands Immediate Implementation of Business Licensing and Registration Regulations

In a move aimed at empowering Basotho entrepreneurs, the National Assembly has urged the government to implement the Business Licensing and Registration Regulations, 2020 without further delay. The resolution was adopted on Friday, 17th May 2024, following a heated debate in the house.

The Clerk to the National Assembly, Advocate Fine Maema, communicated the resolution to the Principal Secretary of Trade, Industry, and Business Development on 23rd May 2024. The communication, made under the mandate of Standing Order no. 105, requires the concerned ministries and departments to take action and report back to the House within thirty (30) days.

The motion, presented by Hon. Thabiso Lekitla, expressed disappointment over the non-implementation of the regulations, which are designed to support and empower local entrepreneurs. The House’s resolution read: “That this Honourable House, having allowed the Business Licensing and Registration Regulations, 2020, expresses its disappointment on non-implementation of the Regulations which intend to empower Basotho entrepreneurs, and accordingly urges the Government of Lesotho to implement the Regulations with immediate effect, and without any alteration.”

The urgency of the resolution reflects the Assembly’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for business growth and development in Lesotho. By ensuring the swift implementation of these regulations, the government aims to streamline the business licensing and registration process, making it easier for Basotho entrepreneurs to operate and thrive.

The resolution has been forwarded to the Hon. Minister of Trade, Industry, and Business Development, as well as the Hon. Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the House, highlighting the importance and urgency of this matter.

The business community and other stakeholders are keenly watching the government’s next steps, hoping for prompt and decisive action that will finally bring the much-needed regulatory changes to fruition. The National Assembly’s call underscores a broader commitment to economic reform and support for local businesses, which are vital for the nation’s economic growth and development.

Police boot Local entrepreneurs’ peaceful protest

Malebabo Majoro
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Police boot Local entrepreneurs’ peaceful protest

Maseru- The aim of the procession was to give the Hon. Prime Minister Sam Ntsokoane Matekane letter addressing the delayed implementation of section 34 regarding reserved items for indigenous Basotho. However, what was expected to be a peaceful march for Basotho entrepreneurs on 24 May 2024, failed dismally as police arrived heavily armed, threatening and dispersing the masses.

Section 34 of business licensing and registration Act and regulations (Amendment 2021) outlines “provisions aimed at protecting and promoting the economic interests of indigenous Basotho by reserving certain items or sectors exclusively for their participation”. However, the opposite is in practice.

On 17th April 2024, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Association held inaugural of Basotho Business, and where they expressed concerns over increasing presence of foreigners in Lesotho’s business sector.  Moreover their main concern comes from lack of enforcement of existing laws designed to address this matter. 

’Malitlou Morojele, a businesswoman and member of the Lesotho Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) noted that on Thursday , in what was intended to be a peaceful march for them turned sour as heavy armed police dispersed them, and some of entrepreneurs arrested. 

“We were supposed to embark on a peaceful march today, but we faiedl as heavy men in blue threatened us. We had a permit that allowed us to embark on that march, but at a very last minute police dispersed us telling us that we do not have a permit to do march.” Morojele said

Morojele further emphasized that police had no right to ambush them like that as they followed the right procedures to get that permit; at least police owe to give them  letter stating that the march is no longer permitted a day before procession, reason being some of the entrepreneurs are from districts. 

“Some of the entrepreneurs were from Mokhotlong, I honestly think the police did not do justice to them. We still do not understand why some of us were arrested because that was a peaceful march, we were not destroying anything or fighting anyone, after being dispersed we rushed to court and we were told to start at Minister of police, we rushed to court prematurely.” Morojele noted. 

Public meetings and processions Act 2010 section 6 (1) , states that “if the police cancels or deny a procession permit, an applicant may appeal the decision to the Minister of Police, who shall apply his mind within 3 days, if not satisfied the applicant may approach the court.

Treason case: Mothae as first witness of 99 completes testimony

Tholoana Lesenya
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Treason case: Mothae as first witness of 99 completes testimony

MASERU-Retired Colonel Tanki Mothae, the first witness in an ongoing treason trial against former Lesotho Defense Force (LDF) Commander Lieutenant General Tlali Kamoli, the current Minister of Health Selibe Mochoboroane, Lesotho Congress for Democracy (LCD) leader Mothetjoa Metsing and three other members of LDF completed his testimony.

Mothae said he was in Botswana when two major generals, Ntlele Ntoi and Tumo Lekhooa paid him a visit. He stated that the two gentlemen told him that they were there on their own, they were somewhere in Pretoria and saw it fit for them to pay him a visit since they were already close.

He continued to say the two gentlemen told him that there were people being trained at Sethaleng sa Mopapa. Furthermore, there is going to be a march whereby those civilians are going to be armed by the police to kill those who take part in the march. He said he could sense that there was no good relationship between the army and the then government.

Additionally, he said he asked Ntoi and Lekhooa who had send them and they said they were there on their own but he could sense that this was a sensitive and dangerous matter and it cannot be an idea of only two majors. Mothae said he advised the two gentlemen to approach the then P.S Sehloho but their reply was that they do not trust Sehloho. 

Moving on, Mothae said the two Majors gave him a cellular phone number of Metsing and said he should call him, he will explain everything they had told him more clearly so he could understand better. “I got the number but I did not call it because I had no reason to do so,” said Mothae.

Moreover, Mothae indicated that after his meeting with the two Majors, he called Sehloho to inform him about this visit. He said after their discussion about the visit, Sehloho told him that he will send a delegation to his office in Botswana to get the report on that matter.

Sometime after his discussion with the P.S, Mothae said he was requested by the then Prime Minister Thomas Thabana to come and talk to both Army Commander Kamoli and Police Commissioner Tšooana about their differences especially handing over of the army members to the police for committing several crimes.

According to Mothae Kamoli was willing to hand over members of the army to the police, but as commander he was obligated to protect these officers and he needed assurance they will return unharmed by the police.

At the end Mothae concluded that he met with Tšooana about the forehand information from Kamoli. He said Tšooana shared the same sentiments as Kamoli, and assured that the soldiers will be safe. This case is before Justice ‘Maliepollo Makhetha.

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