Lesotho and UNDP Deepen Partnership on Digital Transformation and AI Development

The Government of Lesotho  and the United Nations Development Programme have reaffirmed their partnership on digital transformation and artificial intelligence development following a bilateral meeting held on May 8, 2026, at the UNDP  Headquarters in New York.

The discussions involved Lesotho’s Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation (MICSTI)  and senior UNDP officials, including Aissata De. The meeting focused on progress made through collaboration between the Government of Lesotho and the UNDP Country Office, particularly in promoting digital innovation, technology-driven development, and sustainable growth initiatives.

A major point of discussion was the proposed establishment of an AI Academy in Lesotho, aimed at building digital skills and strengthening the country’s technological capabilities. Officials also explored the possibility of expanding the current innovation support framework into a broader acceleration model inspired by Timbuktoo, a platform designed to support entrepreneurship, innovation ecosystems, and digital talent development across Africa.

UNDP commended the leadership of the Honourable Minister for progress achieved in advancing Lesotho’s digital transformation agenda and reiterated its commitment to supporting the country’s national development priorities. The organisation emphasized the importance of innovation and emerging technologies in driving inclusive economic growth and improving public service delivery.

The Lesotho delegation included Kanono Ramashamole and Matete ‘Nena. The meeting further strengthened the strategic partnership between Lesotho and UNDP as both sides seek to accelerate digital transformation and AI development initiatives in the country.