The European Union (EU) Ambassador, Ms. Paola Amadei says they are satisfied with the progress made on the National Reforms thus far.

This, she said during a media briefing following the annual EU and government of Lesotho political dialogue on Wednesday.

She said that the Reforms have reached a delicate stage, saying she hopes that they will be completed soon as they are not only for politicians but Basotho at large.

She emphasized that full ownership of Basotho on Reforms should be respected.

Moreover, she said during the dialogue, they agreed to work together to facilitate the export and import of grain since Lesotho has been badly affected by the Russia / Ukraine war which has resulted in a shortage of grain and high food prices among others. She said that food prices have to be affordable hence they have to work for export.

She requested that the Energy Bill be adopted in Parliament so that Basotho even in remote areas would access electricity.

Also speaking, the Minister of Natural Resources, Mr. Mohlomi Moleko said they hope the Energy Bill will be passed in Parliament a few weeks from now.

He said it is crucial that the Bill be passed, saying it will enable better working relations with the private sector on energy supply. He added that as a country, they do not have to depend on the government for electricity installation, saying that the private sector should also take part.

He said energy is crucial in schools, churches and health facilities, saying if they bring it to hard-to-reach areas that will improve the lives of people.

On the other hand, the Minister of Trade, Industry, Business Development and Tourism, Mr. Mokhethi Shelile said the EUR 6 million grant for Cooperation Facility and Support Measures is going to contribute to the generation of jobs as they are going to introduce a new industry (thus processing spices).

Speaking about the Africa Free Trade, he expressed hope that the EU can support some of the deficiencies related to it including infrastructure, saying there are no proper roads and railways so that they are able to get products to the market.

Meanwhile, the dialogue saw the participation of other EU Member States like Belgium, Slovakia, Sweden, Italy, Austria, Finland, Ireland, France and Germany.

Source: LENA 18/05/2023