AGP Executive Report

Education & Skills: Namibia is ranked 4th on the continent for participation in formal, non-formal and informal education and training, with the ILO urging lifelong learning as a policy priority as technology and work patterns change. Weather Watch (SA): South Africa faces a cold, wet and windy spell, with a yellow warning for damaging winds in parts of the Eastern Cape and advisories for very cold conditions in the Northern and Western Cape. Migration Policy (Ireland): Lesotho is indirectly affected by Ireland’s updated visa rules, with Minister Colm Brophy saying the changes align Ireland with UK/Schengen practices and include visa requirements introduced for Lesotho nationals in 2025. Digital Push in Lesotho: In Maseru, the Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Nthati Moorosi, led a sod-turning for a new digital studio at Makoanyane Square and signed digital policies under the E-Government Project Phase II. Women Farmers & Food Security: The Rural Women’s Assembly of Southern Africa calls for governments to put women smallholder farmers at the centre of food and climate policy, highlighting Lesotho’s participation in the regional dialogue. GBV Spotlight: A Lesotho-focused piece warns that gender-based violence thrives behind fear and silence, urging stronger action to break the cycle. Tech for Users: Google’s Ask Gemini in Chrome rollout expands to Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa, with Lesotho included in the broader supported locales. World Cup Focus (Regional): Mexico and South Africa kick off the 2026 World Cup in Group A at Estadio Azteca, with attention on how the opener could shape the tournament’s early momentum.

Weather Watch: SA Weather Service warns of wet conditions in the Western and Northern Cape and damaging winds in the Eastern Cape, with very cold, wet and windy conditions also expected over parts of the Northern and Western Cape. Global Peace Index: Iceland tops the Global Peace Index 2026 while the UK drops further down the rankings, as the report flags worsening peacefulness driven by conflict. World Cup Kick-off: Mexico and South Africa open the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City, with FIFA and coaches pointing to a big return for Bafana Bafana after years away. Lesotho Tech & Finance: Lesotho’s Central Bank steps up financial literacy in Quthing, highlighting the Lesotho Switch and modern payment access. Digital Push: MICSTI Minister Nthati Moorosi sod-turns a Maseru digital studio and signs digital policies to boost content creation and skills. GBV Spotlight: A Lesotho media piece renews calls to break the silence around gender-based violence. Diplomacy & Cooperation: Lesotho strengthens ties with Qatar and highlights Uganda’s microfinance model as a potential template for financial inclusion. Sports (Women): Zambia’s Copper Queens win the Four Nations and say they’re on track for WAFCON.

World Cup Kick-off: South Africa’s Bafana Bafana open the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Mexico at Estadio Azteca, with coach Hugo Broos saying the team is focused on how to handle Mexico’s movement and solidarity. Team News: Bafana get a boost as central defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi and left back Aubrey Modiba are set to be available for the curtain-raiser. Diplomacy: Lesotho’s Deputy Prime Minister Justice Nthomeng Majara met Qatar’s non-resident ambassador to discuss deeper cooperation in development, governance and parliamentary affairs. Finance & Inclusion: The Central Bank of Lesotho is running financial literacy outreach in Quthing, highlighting the upgraded Lesotho Switch (LesSwitch) and the CBL Investment Portal. Digital Push: MICSTI Minister Nthati Moorosi led a sod-turning for a new digital studio in Maseru and signed digital policies at Makoanyane Square. Energy Deal: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn agreement with Convalt Energy for Project Kobong—1,200MW hydropower plus an AI data centre—aiming to shift the country from importing electricity to exporting. Governance: The IEC accepted a court ruling to reinstate four political parties, signalling compliance with the rule of law. Weather: Very cold, wet and windy conditions are expected in parts of the region, with damaging winds flagged for parts of the Eastern Cape.

Digital Push in Maseru: MICSTI Minister Nthati Moorosi led a sod-turning for a new digital studio at Makoanyane Square and signed digital policies, saying it supports NSDP II goals and will train young people in digital marketing and entrepreneurship. Politics & Courts: The IEC accepted a court ruling ordering the reinstatement of four deregistered parties—BDC, BBTM, BDNP and LEFF—saying it will comply with the judgment. Accountability Drive: Government announced a National Leadership Retreat (June 21–23) and an Accountability Summit (July 1–3) to improve service delivery and create a direct channel for citizens to engage leaders. Justice in Military Case: Chief Justice Sakoane Sakoane said action must be taken against commanders after two Special Forces Unit members were sentenced for the 2014 murder of Lisebo Tang and related charges. Energy Deal: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn agreement with Convalt Energy for Project Kobong—1,200MW hydropower plus an AI data centre—aimed at reducing dependence on South African electricity. Weather Watch: Lesotho is expected to see cool conditions with fog and showers in parts, with cold along the Lesotho border.

Court Orders Action in Army Murder Case: Lesotho’s Chief Justice Sakoane Sakoane says action must be taken against commanders of two Special Forces Unit soldiers sentenced to 20 years for murder, 10 for attempted murder and four for malicious damage, linked to a 2014 shooting near Lt Gen Tlali Kamoli’s home. Elections Update: The IEC in Maseru has accepted a court ruling to reinstate four political parties deregistered under the Electoral Act, after they challenged the decision in court. Accountability Push: Government will hold a National Leadership Retreat (June 21–23) and an Accountability Summit (July 1–3) to improve leadership, transparency and service delivery, with citizens invited to engage. Weather for June 10: Cool to mild conditions with fog and isolated showers expected in parts of the region, including light rain in Limpopo and frost possible in some areas. Football (Regional): Kenya’s Harambee Starlets beat Lesotho 6-0 in the Four Nations play-offs, while Kenya and Lesotho are set to meet again in the third-place match after earlier results.

World Cup Opener: South Africa’s Bafana Bafana face hosts Mexico at Estadio Azteca on Thursday, 16 years after the 2010 opener ended 1-1 in Johannesburg, with Hugo Broos aiming to turn continental momentum into a strong start. Lesotho in the Spotlight: Lesotho’s women’s teams continue to be tested in the region, including Starlets’ push for redemption after earlier setbacks. Weather Watch: Fog, cloudy skies and isolated showers are expected in parts of the country, with cool to cold conditions and frost possible in some areas. Community & Corrections: Mohale’s Hoek Correctional Services says community support is key to inmate rehabilitation after Lesotho Red Cross winter clothing donations. Crime Update: Police in Mossel Bay have arrested two suspects over the murder of a Mozambican national during anti-immigrant unrest, with more cases still under investigation. Energy & Tech Deal: Lesotho is set to sign a major $6.2bn hydropower and AI data centre partnership, with plans that could reshape the country’s power outlook.

South Africa Migration Tensions: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa promised action on illegal migration after anti-migrant protests spread, but warned against vigilante violence and said only authorised officials can act; protesters in Kwa-Thema and other provinces pushed for tougher enforcement and a June 30 deadline for undocumented foreigners. Lesotho Law Reform: Lesotho’s Law Reform Commission held stakeholder talks to review outdated and discriminatory laws, with officials saying some rules still harm women, people with disabilities and minority groups. Energy & AI Deal: Lesotho signed a binding agreement with Convalt Energy for a Kobong hydropower and AI data centre project worth about US$6.2bn, aimed at boosting energy independence and creating jobs, though it depends on feasibility and approvals. Infrastructure Update: The LHDA says Polihali Dam Phase II hit a key milestone, with rockfill placement and upstream concrete curb reaching elevation 2020. Football—Kenya vs Lesotho: Harambee Stars thrashed Lesotho 4-0 in a friendly in South Africa, with Benni McCarthy’s side responding strongly after an earlier 1-1 draw. Women’s Football: Zambia’s Prisca Chilufya is upbeat ahead of the Copper Queens’ Four Nations final, with Lesotho and Kenya set for a third-place match after earlier results.

South Africa Migration Tensions: Hundreds of anti-migrant protesters marched through Kwa-Thema near Johannesburg, pressing for tougher action after President Cyril Ramaphosa warned against vigilante violence and said only authorised officials can enforce the law. Lesotho Law Reform: In Maseru, the Ministry of Justice and the Lesotho Law Reform Commission held stakeholder talks to review outdated and discriminatory laws, with a focus on equality, human dignity, non-discrimination and access to justice. Energy Deal for Lesotho: Lesotho signed a binding $6.2bn agreement with Convalt Energy to develop the Kobong Hydropower and AI Data Centre project, aiming to cut electricity imports and position Lesotho as a potential power exporter. LHWP Progress: The LHDA says Polihali Dam Phase II hit a key milestone, with rockfill placement and upstream concrete curb reaching elevation 2020 as construction advances toward 2027 reservoir inundation. Roads Disruption: Mafika Lisiu Pass reopened after nearly three days of closure due to heavy snow, restoring access for workers and highland tourism. Sports—Kenya vs Lesotho: Harambee Stars thrashed Lesotho 4-0 in a Pretoria friendly rematch, with Kenya’s Benni McCarthy calling it a strong response after an earlier 1-1 draw.

South Africa Migration Crackdown: President Cyril Ramaphosa denied xenophobia as anti-immigrant protests and attacks on foreign nationals intensified, promising action through authorized state bodies and warning against vigilante violence. Kenya–Lesotho Football: Harambee Stars bounced back to beat Lesotho 4-0 in a friendly in Pretoria after a 1-1 draw, with Benni McCarthy making changes that helped sharpen their attack. Zimbabwe Women’s Run: Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors reached the Four Nations final after beating Lesotho 3-1 in Ndola, showing resilience after conceding an equaliser. Zambia Women’s Tournament: Zambia edged Kenya 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to set up a final against Zimbabwe; Barbra Banda was sidelined with a hamstring strain. Lesotho Development & Tech: Econet Telecom Lesotho launched a network tower in Senekane and handed over a school kitchen, while Lesotho also unveiled a team for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad and reported progress on assistive technology access despite funding gaps.

Cross-Border Health Security: Kenya and Uganda launched a joint assessment at the Busia One Stop Border Post with ECSA-HC to check Ebola preparedness, screening systems and Standard Operating Procedures, using WHO-developed tools to spot gaps and fix them fast. Migration Tensions in the Region: South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa promised action on illegal migration after anti-immigrant protests, stressing only authorised officials should enforce the law. Lesotho in Sports Spotlight: Kenya’s Harambee Stars beat Lesotho 4-0 in a friendly in South Africa, while Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors also overcame Lesotho 3-1 to reach the Four Nations final. Women’s Football Update: Zambia edged Kenya 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to set up a final against Zimbabwe; Zambia’s Barbra Banda is a hamstring doubt ahead of WAFCON. Local Development & Inclusion: Lesotho reported progress on assistive technology access through policy and locally made low-cost devices, though funding and rollout gaps remain. Tech & Connectivity: Econet Telecom Lesotho launched a network tower in Senekane and handed over a school kitchen, aiming to improve mobile coverage for surrounding communities. Education & STEM: Lesotho unveiled its team for the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad in Côte d’Ivoire. Trade Talks: Dubai Chambers met Lesotho’s Prime Minister in Johannesburg to explore stronger trade and investment ties.

Women’s Football: Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors beat Lesotho 3-1 in the Four Nations semi-final in Ndola to set up a final against hosts Zambia on Tuesday, after a first-half 1-1 draw and a decisive second-half surge. Friendly Football: Harambee Stars and Lesotho played out a 1-1 draw in Pretoria, with Kenya’s coach Benni McCarthy calling for a sharper response ahead of the rematch. Sports Spotlight: Lesotho’s Mighty Warriors also advanced in the tournament narrative, with the weekend’s results shaping who meets Zambia in the final. Energy & Investment: Convalt Energy signed a $6.2bn deal with Lesotho for a 1,200MW hydropower plant and an AI data centre in Mokhotlong, aiming to cut electricity dependence and build digital capacity. Connectivity for Communities: Econet Telecom Lesotho launched a new network tower at Senekane Primary School and handed over a school kitchen, boosting mobile coverage for nearby villages. Security & Youth: Lesotho’s PM Ntsokoane Matekane pledged 500 more LDF recruits, citing drug trafficking and substance abuse as key threats to young people. Weather Watch: Cold conditions and morning fog are expected around the Lesotho border, with advisories for travellers.

Trade & Investment: Lesotho’s Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane met Dubai Chambers in Johannesburg to discuss stronger trade and investment ties, with a push to use Dubai expertise in logistics, infrastructure and the digital economy. Big Energy Deal: Convalt Energy signed a $6.2bn (98bn maloti) Kobong Hydropower and AI Data Centre agreement with Lesotho’s Ministry of Energy, pairing a 1,200MW hydropower plant with a green-powered AI data centre in Mokhotlong—aimed at boosting energy independence and jobs. Connectivity for Learning: Econet Telecom Lesotho handed over a telecommunications tower and a new kitchen at Senekane Primary School in Berea, improving access to information and mobile money. Digital Skills Push: Maseru’s Digital Innovators Summit urged Basotho youth to embrace technology and AI for public development, including digitising water systems. Security & Youth: PM Matekane pledged 500 more recruits for the Lesotho Defence Force and warned of drug trafficking and substance abuse. Sports (Cross-border): Copper Queens reached the Four Nations final in Ndola after beating Kenya on penalties; Lesotho’s national team drew Kenya 1-1 in a friendly. Weather: Cold conditions with morning fog patches are expected around the Lesotho border and in parts of South Africa.

Women’s Football: Harambee Starlets open their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations build-up with a Zambia clash in Ndola, aiming to sharpen their “clinical edge” after mixed results in recent friendlies. Men’s Football: Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy says his side must respond fast after a 1-1 draw with Lesotho, blaming a second-half drop in game management and admitting his own tactical changes disrupted the defence. Energy & Tech: Lesotho signed a binding deal with Convalt Energy for the Kobong project—1,200MW hydropower plus a green AI data centre—positioning the country to cut electricity imports and grow digital infrastructure, though feasibility work still remains. Security: Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane pledged 500 more LDF recruits and warned of a “war” on drug dealers and substance abuse harming youth. Connectivity & Education: Senekane Primary received a telecom tower and a new kitchen, boosting rural access to communication and digital services. Weather & Travel: Cold conditions and fog are expected, with heavy snow forcing Sani Pass closures and KZN urging travellers to delay trips into Lesotho. Public Health: South Africa confirmed a winter COVID-19 case while Lesotho monitors influenza-like illness in several districts. Regional Migration: South Africa faces rising anti-migrant tensions, with Ramaphosa rejecting xenophobia claims and calling for African-led solutions.

Migrant violence and diplomacy: Mozambique says hundreds of its citizens have returned home after deadly anti-foreigner attacks in South Africa, while Kenya, Lesotho and Zimbabwe urged their nationals to stay cautious; South African police also warned anti-immigration groups against taking the law into their own hands. Lesotho energy push: Lesotho signed a binding deal with Convalt Energy for the Kobong Hydropower and AI Data Centre project worth about $6.2bn/98bn maloti, targeting 1,200MW of renewable power and a green AI data centre to cut electricity imports and boost jobs (still subject to feasibility and approvals). Security focus: Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane pledged 500 more LDF recruits and said Lesotho is stepping up action against drug dealers. Winter disruption: Heavy snow has closed Sani Pass, with travellers advised to delay trips; KZN also reported storm damage in uMlalazi. Digital drive: Basotho youth were urged to embrace technology at a Digital Innovators Summit in Maseru. Public health watch: South Africa confirmed a winter COVID-19 case while Lesotho investigates influenza-like illness in several districts. Labour services: LEPEU brought services to Mapoteng Resource Centre, including support on workplace disputes and bargaining councils.

Sani Pass Winter Disruption: Heavy snow has blanketed Sani Pass, forcing authorities to close the border route and warning travellers not to attempt the drive as conditions turn hazardous fast; Highlands Cold Snap: Gauteng is bracing for the coldest night of the year, with freezing temperatures reported in major cities, while snow and icy-road warnings also spread across parts of South Africa; Lesotho Humanitarian Rescue: “Mr Lifesaver” Clifford Tar rescued stranded patients after an ambulance got stuck in snow at Moteng Pass, prioritising a critically ill pregnant woman; Public Finance Accountability: Lesotho’s Ministry of Finance will train ministries on asset registration from June 15 after Auditor General reports raised concerns that government assets are not fully captured on the assets register; GBV Coordination Push: Stakeholders in Maseru are calling to revive and strengthen Lesotho’s Anti-GBV Coordination Forum to improve prevention, response and survivor support through better coordination; Children’s Protection Law: The Senate adopted the Children’s Protection and Welfare (Amendment) Bill to strengthen safeguards for vulnerable children; Regional Security & Migration Tensions: South Africa’s leaders and police are pushing back on xenophobia claims amid anti-migrant unrest, while Lesotho and other neighbours urge citizens in South Africa to stay vigilant.

Xenophobia and regional fallout: Mozambique says five of its citizens were killed in South Africa “xenophobic attacks,” while South African police confirm only two Mozambicans died in Mossel Bay, with authorities warning against unlawful anti-foreigner action. Local impact in Lesotho: Lesotho is among countries urging citizens in South Africa to stay vigilant as anti-migrant protests and business closures disrupt access to essentials. GBV push in Maseru: Lesotho’s gender officials are calling to revive the Anti-GBV Coordination Forum, stressing better coordination among ministries, civil society, faith groups and communities to prevent violence and support survivors. Children’s rights law: The Senate adopted the Children’s Protection and Welfare (Amendment) Bill 2023 to strengthen safeguards for vulnerable children. Public finance accountability: The Ministry of Finance will train ministries on asset registration from June 15 after Auditor General concerns that government assets are not fully captured on registers. Weather and travel: Heavy snow has led to the closure of Sani Pass and the border route, with authorities warning travellers to avoid the area. Football focus: Lesotho’s national team plays Kenya in a friendly as World Cup warmups continue across the region.