Roads Directorate Reports Road Milestones, Flags Internal Hurdles

MASERU- The Roads Directorate (RD) has announced significant progress in road infrastructure development, with approximately 200 kilometres of paved roads completed, improving connectivity and transport efficiency across the country. This milestone was announced by RD Director General, Mr. Teboho Mokhoane, during a national stakeholder consultation workshop in Maseru.

The directorate has also made notable improvements in urban lighting, with around 1,600 functional street lights installed in major towns, including Maseru Urban, Teyateyaneng, Botha-Bothe, and Mafeteng. These installations are crucial for enhancing road safety and public security during night-time hours. Furthermore, the RD has constructed around 30 footbridges in rural villages, supporting safe pedestrian movement, particularly in areas prone to flooding.

Despite these achievements, the RD faces significant internal challenges, as outlined in its 2026-2031 Strategic Plan. The directorate is constrained by outdated design standards, weak ICT infrastructure, a non-functional monitoring and evaluation system, poor contract management, staff shortages, and slow internal processes, particularly in procurement and payments.

The workshop aimed to strengthen engagement with road users and development partners as the RD prepares to implement its strategic plan. Mr. Mokhoane emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership in addressing the challenges facing the directorate.

Established under the Roads Directorate Act of 2010, the RD is responsible for planning, constructing, and maintaining Lesotho’s national road network. The institution has faced increasing demands to improve road quality, address climate impacts, and enhance safety across the country.

The RD’s efforts are critical to Lesotho’s economic development, as a well-maintained road network is essential for trade, commerce, and social development. The directorate’s commitment to transparency and accountability is commendable, and it is hoped that the challenges highlighted will be addressed promptly.