16 June 2026
The inaugural session of the Botswana-Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC) marks a significant step toward enhancing collaboration amid global trade uncertainties, external shocks, climate pressures, and persistent public health crises.
In his opening remarks at the ongoing BNC for Senior Officials in Gaborone yesterday morning, Ambassador Thuso Ramodimoosi, Permanent Secretary in Botswana’s Ministry of International Relations, emphasised the agreement signed in Maseru in July 2025. He quoted President Duma Gideon Boko:
“The challenges confronting our nations call for closer collaboration, strengthened solidarity, and innovative approaches.”
Ramodimoosi outlined key focus areas: agriculture and livestock development, seeking collaboration between the Botswana Meat Commission (BMC), the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI), and their Lesotho counterparts to promote value-added meat processing, enhance animal health, and contribute to regional food security.
He also highlighted water and energy security, citing opportunities to deepen cooperation in sustainable water management, harness Lesotho’s hydropower potential, and support climate-resilient development.
Representing Lesotho, Principal Secretary Thabang Lekhela, head of the senior officials’ delegation, acknowledged long-standing ties: Botswana’s learning institutions have established campuses in Lesotho, Botswana companies operate there, and Lesotho has contributed immensely to Botswana’s construction sector.
He added, “We are on the verge of supplying water to Botswana.”
The meeting aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation and advance shared development priorities, with both nations optimistic about addressing regional and global challenges effectively.
Source: BWgovernment via Facebook
