Prime Minister (PM) Mr Ntsokoane Matekane has called on development partners to continue to honor their Official Development Assistance (ODA) commitments, citing the critical role they play in supporting the country’s development efforts.
Speaking in at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) in Spain, the PM stated that despite efforts to invest in productive sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing, Lesotho faces significant challenges due to the impacts of climate change and protectionist trade policies.
He added that these challenges are compounded by the existing burdens which impede progress. He stressed the need for sustained support from development partners.
“We join the call on development partners to continue to honor their ODA commitments, we further encourage them to commit to multi-year cooperation agreements that provide more stable and predictable funding in the form of grants,” PM stated.
He said that ODA remains a vital source of development financing for Lesotho, enabling the country to provide essential social public goods such as education, health, housing, and infrastructure. He added that decline in ODA would pose a significant threat to the progress made in these areas.
Lesotho’s appeal underscores the need for continued international support to address the country’s development challenges and achieve sustainable progress.
Source: Lesotho News Agency (LENA) 01/07/2025
