Lesotho has taken a significant step toward digital transformation with a series of knowledge transfer and stakeholder validation workshops led by NRD Companies in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MICSTI). These workshops, attended by over 100 participants in each session, focused on refining three key policies co-created by the experts from NRD, MICSTI, and other relevant stakeholders in Lesotho, that will shape the nation’s digital governance landscape:
These interactive sessions facilitated discussions that will support stakeholder consensus on digital transformation, enhance decision-making processes, and modernize public service delivery. MICSTI’s commitment to innovation is paving the way for a Lesotho ready to embrace digital transformation, with NRD Companies playing a key role in this journey.
Collaborative Knowledge Transfer for Sustainable Development
From January 24th to 31st, NRD Companies’ consultancy expert team conducted in-person workshops in Lesotho, engaging a wide range of stakeholders, including government representatives, private sector leaders, civil society, and academia. The workshops focused on providing comprehensive insights into the drafted policies, ensuring alignment with national priorities, and validating their implementation plans. The sessions were designed to foster collaborative dialogue, enabling stakeholders to share their perspectives, address challenges, and contribute to the development of practical and inclusive digital governance frameworks.
Key Workshop Highlights:
- Broadband and Shared Infrastructure Policy: focus on creating a digitally inclusive environment that empowers citizens with reliable and accessible connectivity, enables businesses to thrive in a competitive market, and supports the government in leveraging data-driven decision-making for efficient digital services. The Policy discussion also debriefed its principles such as a consumer-centered approach, digital inclusion, market-driven competition, holistic approach, agility and transparency. Key objectives were discussed included expanding connectivity (high-speed broadband and connectivity in rural areas), fostering a competitive environment with a focus on infrastructure sharing, empowering end-users, enabling data-driven management, promoting sustainability, resilience and innovation, and enhancing international cooperation.
- Data Management Policy:
- Artificial Intelligence Policy: focus on highlighting the importance of adopting a risk-based framework, ensuring transparency and explainability, prioritizing ethical AI development, and protecting data privacy and security. The workshop also emphasized the need for clear governance structures, stakeholder engagement, and promoting responsible innovation. Furthermore, the workshop discussed the vision for AI in Lesotho, which envisions a future where AI empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and drives sustainable societal progress. The policy promotes innovation, upholds human rights, and ensures that AI development aligns with national values of inclusivity, safety, and ethical integrity.
Empowering Stakeholders Through Training and Capacity Building
A key focus of the workshops was knowledge transfer and capacity building, sharing MICSTI and other stakeholders with the expert insights needed to implement and sustain these policies. Through interactive sessions and practical exercises, participants gained a deeper understanding of the proposed policy frameworks, best practices for digital governance, and strategies for overcoming implementation challenges. The engagement of diverse stakeholders ensured that the policies reflect the needs and aspirations of all citizens, laying the foundation for inclusive digital development.
Alignment with International Standards and Best Practices
The policies were developed in alignment with international standards and best practices to ensure their relevance and effectiveness. For example, the Broadband and Shared Infrastructure Policy references frameworks from COMESA, SADC, and the EU Digital Single Market strategy, while the Data Management Policy incorporates principles from the AU Data Policy Framework and GDPR. The Artificial Intelligence Policy aligns with the African Union AI Strategy and the EU AI Act, ensuring that Lesotho’s digital transformation is both locally relevant and globally competitive.
Looking Ahead: Expected Impact and Long-Term Benefits
The successful validation of these policies marks a crucial step toward their adoption by the Government of Lesotho. Once implemented, the policies are expected to:
- Better balanced policy, legislative, and institutional instruments for 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.
- Well-coordinated 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.
NRD Companies’ Role and Expertise
NRD Companies provided a team of experts with extensive experience in digital governance, responsible for drafting the policy frameworks, conducting stakeholder consultations, and leading the knowledge transfer sessions. By aligning the policies with international best practices and tailoring them to Lesotho’s unique context, NRD Companies ensured that the frameworks are practical, sustainable, and future-proof. This collaborative approach reflects NRD Companies’ commitment to supporting countries in achieving their digital transformation goals.
Conclusion
The recent workshops in Lesotho represent a significant milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. By developing comprehensive policy frameworks and equipping stakeholders with the knowledge and skills needed for implementation, MICSTI and NRD Companies are laying the foundation for a more connected, inclusive, and innovative future. As Lesotho continues to advance its digital governance capabilities, these policies will play a critical role in driving sustainable development, promoting digital inclusion, and enhancing the well-being of all citizens.
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