About the Client and Stakeholders
The Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MICSTI) is the governmental authority responsible for driving Lesotho’s digital transformation agenda. Tasked with formulating and implementing policies that foster innovation, connectivity, and technological advancement, MICSTI plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s digital future.
The ministry oversees initiatives aimed at strengthening digital governance, expanding broadband access, and ensuring the secure and ethical use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. As Lesotho moves toward a more connected and digitally inclusive society, MICSTI is at the forefront of developing strategic policies that support economic growth, enhance public service delivery, and bridge the digital divide.
Challenge
As Lesotho advances its digital transformation, the need for a structured and well-defined digital governance framework has become increasingly evident. While the country has made progress in adopting digital technologies, several systemic challenges have hindered the full realization of digital government, economic growth, and service optimization. Without clear policies to guide digital development, key sectors struggle to implement efficient, secure, and inclusive digital solutions. The project was initiated to address the following critical gaps:
Lack of Digital Government Policy: Despite progress in digitization, the absence of comprehensive policies hindered effective governance and optimization of digital services.
- Digital Inequality: Limited broadband access, particularly in rural areas, created a digital divide that restricted access to digital services.
- Data Management Gaps: Poor coordination, limited awareness of data management standards, and outdated legislation hampered effective data governance.
- High Broadband Expansion Costs: The cost of expanding broadband to remote areas was prohibitive.
- AI Governance Needs: With AI becoming more prevalent, there is a need for a framework to ensure its ethical and transparent use.
Solution and Benefits
To address these challenges, NRD Companies developed three key policy frameworks:
- Broadband and Shared Infrastructure Policy: Focused on expanding broadband coverage through infrastructure sharing and co-deployment, reducing costs and promoting digital inclusion.
- Data Management Policy: Established guidelines for data classification, privacy, security, and sharing, enabling improved service delivery and decision-making.
- Artificial Intelligence Policy: Created a framework for the responsible use of AI, addressing privacy, bias, and accountability, while supporting innovation and economic growth.
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NRD Companies’ Products and Services Provided
- Policy Framework Development: Comprehensive development of three policy frameworks aligned with international standards.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Online and in-person workshops and consultations with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and academia.
- Capacity Building: Knowledge transfer sessions during the site mission in January 2025, involving over 100 stakeholders in each policy workshop.
Results Expected
It is expected that the developed policies will be adopted by the government of Lesotho, given a large amount of participants in the validation and review workshops, as well as endorsements from the Minister of MICSTI to the policies presented during the site visit in Lesotho.
The following benefits are expected with the strengthened digital governance frameworks and effective implementation of developed policies:
- Better balanced policy, legislative, and institutional instruments for the enhancement of digital infrastructure and connectivity across the country.
- Clear principles, standards, and institutional setup enabling mobilization of resources leading to improved data governance and security in the country.
- Clear approach and support for ethical and responsible AI deployment and growth, including its utilization in academia and economic sectors, such as agriculture and garment manufacturing.
Quote from the Client
“NRD Companies’ expertise and collaborative approach have been instrumental in advancing Lesotho’s digital governance journey. Their commitment to engaging stakeholders, ensuring clear communication, and transferring knowledge has equipped us with the tools needed for long-term success. We appreciate their ongoing support and dedication to creating policies that will benefit all Basotho, fostering innovation, and strengthening our nation’s digital future.”
— Honorable Nthati Moorosi, Minister, MICSTI
Replicability
The methodologies and frameworks developed for this project can be replicated in other countries facing similar digital transformation challenges. The inclusive and iterative approach ensures solutions tailored to specific contexts while aligning with global best practices.
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Sustainability and SDGs Addressed
SDGs Addressed:
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure — Enhanced digital infrastructure and connectivity.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities — Inclusive digital governance that benefits all citizens.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions — Strengthened governance frameworks for data management and AI.
How SDGs Were Addressed:
- By developing policies that promote digital inclusion and accessibility.
- Ensuring secure data management in public institutions.
- Supporting ethical and responsible AI use to drive innovation and improve services.
This case study highlights NRD Companies’ role in supporting MICSTI’s digital transformation journey, setting the stage for sustainable economic growth and improved public service delivery in Lesotho.
