The plenary session on green growth at the ongoing Metsi Ke Bophelo Water and Hydrogen in a Digital Future Conference and Expo has called for either green growth for environmental sustainability or no growth at all.
Panelists drawn from different agencies like UNICEF Representative to Lesotho, Mr. Deepak Bhaskaran, and the British High Commissioner to Lesotho, Mr. Harry McDonald among others highlighted the need for inclusivity to attain this development.
According to Mr. Bhaskaran, inclusivity must ensure that no Mosotho is left behind, with the private sector having to spearhead the process of risk taking to address social issues aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Similarly, Mr. McDonald emphasised the need for the private sector to help the government in terms of starting to take the risk, adding that green growth is all about embracing concepts in economic theory and policymaking used to describe paths of economic growth that are environmentally sustainable.
“Together with government and all stakeholders, issues of policy making should not be left behind,” he stressed.
In another session related to water, hydrogen, technology and regional development, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) from different entities shared their insights on unlocking Lesotho’s potential in this regard.
Mr. Khotso Masheane, the Lesotho Electricity and Water Authority (LEWA) Chief Executive Officer said through collective wisdom, hydrogen in Lesotho can become a reality as it is part of the global economy.
“The water resources have the potential to produce fuel, thus enhancing economic growth and sustainable development,” he stressed.
On the other hand, the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Tente Tente said the idea of a water hydrogen future should be looked into in line with the project life cycle, follow planning, organising, leading and execution processes among others.
“Let us not rush to execution before in depth feasibility studies are conducted so that the project can be successful,” he said.
Debates and discussions are continuing with other topics touching on energy, wind and solar.
Source: LENA 13/10/2023
