ADVANCING THE NATIONAL DIGITAL AGENDA AND AI TECHNOLOGIES REMAINS A CORE COMMITMENT OF LESOTHO GOVERNMENT.

The Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation (MICSTI), Ms. Nthati Moorosi, led the sod-turning ceremony for the construction of a digital studio and the signing of digital policies at Makoanyane Square in Maseru.

Delivering her keynote address, Ms. Moorosi said the launch of the digital studio aligns with the review and extension of the National Strategic Development Plan II (NSDP II), which seeks to promote economic diversification and transform Lesotho’s economy.

She noted that the facility will be the second digital studio under the ministry, following the establishment of the UNIPOD studio at Lerotholi Polytechnic. She explained that the UNIPOD provides content creators and other Basotho with access to facilities and free internet services to develop and edit digital content.

The minister said the launch marks an important milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. She recalled that when Prime Minister Mr. Ntsokoane Matekane encouraged the effective utilisation of Makoanyane Square to create employment opportunities and unlock economic potential, the vision appeared ambitious, but has now become a reality.

Ms. Moorosi stated that the digital studio, which forms part of the E-Government Project Phase II, will serve as a centre for digital content creation and innovation. She added that it will equip young people with skills in areas such as digital marketing, entrepreneurship and other emerging digital industries.

Speaking on the signing of digital policies, she said the government remains committed to advancing the country’s digital agenda through initiatives such as broadband expansion and the adoption of artificial intelligence technologies. She noted that both the studio project and policy framework demonstrate the government’s determination to build a digital economy.

The Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police, Mr. Nkhethoa Seetsa, commended MICSTI for the initiative. He encouraged young people already making use of Makoanyane Square to take full advantage of the opportunities that the digital studio will provide once completed and operational.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of Maseru, Mr. Relebohile Sechache, welcomed the development, saying it follows the successful renovation of Makoanyane Square, which has attracted many visitors and created income-generating opportunities for local photographers and small businesses.

The ceremony was attended by government officials, development partners, dignitaries and other stakeholders.