MASERU, June 19 – Lesotho has signed financing agreements with the World Bank worth M900 million, (approximately $55 million), to expand electricity access, strengthen workforce skills and improve nutrition outcomes across the country.
The agreements were signed by Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane, Lesotho’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, and Dinara Djoldosheva, the World Bank’s Country Representative.
The largest share of the financing, valued at $50 million (approximately M820.4 million), will support the Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation in Lesotho (ASCENT) Project.
The initiative aims to provide reliable and affordable electricity to nearly 147,000 residents and businesses, with a particular focus on peri-urban, rural and highland communities that have historically faced limited access to power infrastructure.
In addition to the energy project, the World Bank approved a $1 million grant to support preparation of the Lesotho Skills Acceleration Project, which is expected to strengthen workforce development and improve employment opportunities.
A further $300,000 grant will finance the Lesotho Multisectoral Nutrition Project, supporting efforts to improve nutrition outcomes through coordinated interventions across multiple sectors.
Dr. Matlanyane said the financing reflects the government’s commitment to improving the lives of Basotho through targeted investments in priority sectors that promote long-term economic and social development.
Djoldosheva reaffirmed the World Bank’s continued support for Lesotho’s inclusive and sustainable development agenda, highlighting the importance of investments that expand access to essential services while supporting economic resilience.
The financing package is expected to contribute to economic growth, create employment opportunities and improve living standards as Lesotho continues to invest in infrastructure, human capital and social development.
