Hopolang Mokhopi
THE Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, has launched the Tourism Sector Accreditation Programme, marking a significant milestone in Lesotho’s journey towards a more competitive, sustainable, and visitor-focused tourism industry.
The launch was held at the LTDC premises in Maseru yesterday.
Director in the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, Lieketseng Selinyane, said the accreditation and grading programmes reflect the country’s commitment to excellence.
“It is our promise to tourists locally, regionally, and internationally that wherever they travel across the Kingdom in the Sky, they will receive services that meet internationally recognised standards of quality, safety, and hospitality,” Ms Selinyane said.
She added that the programme aims to empower tourism businesses by equipping them with tools and support necessary to succeed.
Speaking on behalf of the Lesotho Council for Tourism (LCT), Lisebo Mosetsi highlighted the importance of accreditation in advancing the tourism sector and aligning it with national development priorities.
“Accreditation is a bold statement of our collective commitment: to upholding excellent service; to protecting tourists and host communities; and, to building a sustainable and inclusive tourism economy,” she said.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of LTDC, Mamello Morojele, emphasised the significance of the programme in improving standards, promoting quality assurance, and enhancing Lesotho’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.
“Today, we are not only launching a programme; we are ushering in a new era of accountability, professionalism, and excellence in the tourism sector,” Ms Morojele said.
She said the programme was designed to support business growth, offer guidance on best practices, and help position tourism enterprises on the map of trusted service providers.
“It will provide clear guidelines for improving service quality, a platform to promote accredited businesses nationally and internationally, and a framework to protect consumers and uphold fair competition.”
She said the programme’s success would depend on the commitment of all stakeholders, including the government, the private sector and communities.
“Let us embrace this programme with open arms and make Lesotho a destination known, not only for its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, but also for its excellence in service,” Ms Morojele said.
