Moroke Sekoboto
IN a significant step toward bolstering its digital transformation agenda, Lesotho has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Republic of India to collaborate on the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
The MoU was signed between Lesotho’s Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation and India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) during a ceremony held in Maseru this week.
The signing of the MoU is expected to open new avenues for technical cooperation, knowledge exchange, and joint projects aimed at modernising governance systems, increasing digital inclusion, and creating economic opportunities for Basotho.
Both countries affirmed their commitment to turning this agreement into tangible results and fostering a future where digital technology bridges gaps and unlocks prosperity for all.
Delivering her keynote address, Minister of of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Nthati Moorosi, described the signing as a historic milestone and a testament to over 50 years of strong diplomatic ties between the two countries.
“As Lesotho, we are honoured to welcome you all to this momentous occasion—the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation of the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of the Republic of India,” Ms Moorosi said.
She emphasised that the MoU marks a new chapter in bilateral relations, rooted in “mutual respect, shared aspirations, and a common vision for digital transformation.”
The partnership is set to facilitate Lesotho’s adoption of cutting-edge digital tools and services including IndiaStack—a suite of open APIs and digital goods pioneered by India. These include digital ID systems, e-signatures, payment gateways, and cloud-based document storage services such as DigiLocker.
“Through this partnership, Lesotho seeks to build capacity, exchange knowledge, and co-develop digital solutions that will empower our citizens, enhance public service delivery, and stimulate economic growth,” Ms Moorosi said.
She also said the collaboration would play a critical role in supporting Lesotho’s recently launched National Digital Transformation Strategy, particularly in the areas of digital identity, e-governance, and the use of artificial intelligence.
“Central to the strategy’s digital government pillar is the development of robust digital public infrastructure and digital public goods, which is a cornerstone of modern governance,” she noted. “We are therefore rolling out initiatives such as DigiLocker and digital IDs to simplify access to trusted services like digital certificates and to provide secure, reliable identity verification.”
Ms Moorosi further underscored the importance of ensuring that the benefits of digital innovation reach all Basotho. “These advancements will strengthen Lesotho’s digital economy by enhancing global competitiveness for businesses and improving citizens’ lives through transparent, user-friendly technology solutions that leave no one behind,” she said.
Representing the Government of India, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Lesotho’s digital journey and broader development goals.
“This MoU reflects the deep and historic ties between India and Lesotho,” said Mr Margherita.
“India remains a steadfast partner in Lesotho’s development and we are eager to expand cooperation across key sectors including agriculture, healthcare, tourism, infrastructure, and renewable energy.”
Mr Margherita also expressed India’s willingness to share its technological advancements and expertise, particularly under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme.
“India Stack has been a game-changer for digital governance in India, and we are delighted to share these tools with our friends in Lesotho,” he said. “We believe that through such collaborations, we can jointly build resilient and inclusive digital ecosystems that benefit all citizens.”
He further called for increased trade and investment between the two countries and urged continued collaboration on issues of climate resilience and sustainable development.
“We also look forward to strengthening cultural and people-to-people ties, which remain the bedrock of our friendship. India stands ready to support Lesotho’s development, not just bilaterally but also through broader regional and multilateral partnerships,” Mr Margherita said.
