Lesotho’s Human Development Index (HDI) trajectory has in recent years shown progress and this is linked to improved Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure and increased mobile phone usage, however challenges are reported to persist in addressing economic inequality and gender disparities.
This is according to the Lesotho National Human Development Report 2024 which was launched by the Minister of Finance and Development Planning Dr Rets’elisitsoe Matlanyane under the theme ‘Harnessing Technology and Innovation to accelerate Human Development in Lesotho’
The report showed that the gender gap in HDI values and labor force participation underscores the need for targeted policies to promote equal opportunities and holistic human development.
Furthermore, the report indicates that despite improvements, the 2023 Lesotho HDI shows a slight decline when incorporating the ICT index highlighting areas needing policy intervention to boost internet access and computer ownership.
Meanwhile, the report mentioned that despite the potential benefits, adopting new technologies faces challenges including infrastructure deficits, digital literacy gaps and financial constraints.
The purpose of the Lesotho National Human Development Report (NHDR) 2024 is to explore the transformative role of technology and innovation in advancing human development within the country.
It also aims to highlight the achievements and challenges in critical areas such as health, education and income while addressing inequality and poverty.
UNDP in partnership with the two Ministries of Information Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation and of Gender, Youth, Sports, Arts, Culture and Social Development, launched the Science , Technology, Engineering And Mathematics conference recently.
Source: Lesotho News Agency (LENA) 27/5/2024
