AGP Executive Report

Foot-and-Mouth Disease Support: Botswana has donated 100,000 doses of FMD vaccines to Lesotho, handed over in Maseru to strengthen the national response and protect livestock livelihoods. Climate & Health Preparedness: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority convened a National Stakeholder Forum on anticipated El Niño conditions, focusing on impacts across food security, livelihoods, livestock, water, health and sanitation, and urging early action for vulnerable communities. Child Nutrition Alarm: The acting Food and Nutrition Coordinator warned that Lesotho faces a “triple burden” of malnutrition, with young people at risk of under-nutrition, overweight/obesity and micronutrient deficiencies, calling for stronger multisector action in schools and food systems. Fundraising for Eye Condition: A campaign to raise funds for Mrs. ‘Makarabo Letsoela (growths around the eyes) has been reactivated, with IBC College offering its facilities to host events so treatment costs can be covered. Digital Access for Health: Vodacom Lesotho and Starlink launched satellite broadband to improve connectivity in remote areas, highlighting benefits for health facilities, learning and government services. HIV Progress in the Region: UNAIDS points to Lesotho among countries that have reached the 95-95-95 HIV targets, stressing that community and health-system partnerships drive sustained results.

Digital Connectivity: Vodacom Lesotho and Starlink launched a satellite broadband solution to boost reliable internet access, especially in remote and mountainous areas—highlighting how connectivity supports health facilities, education, business and government services. Climate & Health Preparedness: The Disaster Management Authority convened a National Stakeholder Forum on anticipated El Niño conditions, urging early action across food security, livestock, water and health to protect vulnerable communities. Child Nutrition: Acting Food and Nutrition Coordinator Dr ’Mamotheo Mammo Daemane warned Lesotho faces a “triple burden” of malnutrition—under-nutrition, childhood overweight/obesity and micronutrient deficiencies—calling for stronger school and multisector responses. HIV Response Momentum: UNAIDS pointed to Lesotho’s inclusion among countries that have reached the 95-95-95 HIV targets, stressing that community and health-system partnership drives sustainable results. Community Health Support: Fundraising efforts for ‘Nete Leotlela and Mrs ’Makarabo Letsoela’s treatment needs were reactivated, with organisers offering venues and calling for donations to support care and recovery. Public Health Through Prevention: Farmers were urged to act now on El Niño warnings—adjusting planting and water management—so crop and livestock shocks don’t spill into wider health and nutrition crises.

Fundraising & Care: In Maseru, the campaign to raise money for Mrs. ‘Makarabo Letsoela—who has growths around her eyes and needs reconstructive surgery—has been reactivated, with Integrated Business Consultants (IBC) College offering its hall for events and pledging M5,000 to kick-start support. HIV & Health Systems: Kenya’s KDF says it is moving to protect its HIV programme as external support declines, exploring ways to strengthen ownership and keep HIV, research and surveillance work going. SADC Leadership: Zambia will host the 47th SADC Summit after the 46th meeting in Durban, with resolutions touching on peace, health and trade. Adolescent Girls’ Health: A UNAIDS-linked push in Mokhotlong highlights Lesotho’s “Triple Threat” for girls and young women—HIV risk, gender-based violence and early pregnancy—calling for action beyond awareness. Water & Public Health: South Africa’s water brief stresses that while the country won’t run out, reliability problems and ageing infrastructure still leave communities water-insecure. Governance & Accountability: Lesotho’s PAC chair says the committee cannot prosecute, urging people to route complaints to the DCEO and LMPS when investigations point to wrongdoing. Disaster Response: Lesotho’s DMA urges Basotho to report incidents correctly, noting not every emergency qualifies as a disaster and assessments guide whether national support is needed.

HIV & Youth Health: UNAIDS highlights HIV progress and prevention lessons, noting that Lesotho is among the countries that have reached the 95-95-95 targets—where knowing status, treatment, and viral suppression reduce transmission risk—while a Lesotho focus story warns adolescent girls and young women face a “Triple Threat” of HIV burden, gender-based violence, and early pregnancy, with knowledge gaps in places like Mokhotlong. Maternal & Newborn Care: Kenya launches a five-year partnership (with the Beginnings Fund) to expand quality maternal and newborn services across 21 priority counties, aiming to strengthen health workforce, medicines, referral networks, and facility systems. Disaster Response: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority urges Basotho to treat emergencies and disasters differently, stressing that only incidents that overwhelm community capacity qualify for national disaster support. Climate & Farming Resilience: Farmers are urged to prepare for El Niño by adjusting planting schedules, improving water management, and adopting climate-smart practices to protect crops, livestock, and food security. Health-Adjacent Community Support: A Lesotho business community fundraising festival targets support for ‘Nete Leotlela’s reconstructive surgeries and recovery, aiming to raise M1 million.

HIV & Youth Health: UNAIDS highlights Lesotho’s “Triple Threat” for adolescent girls and young women—high HIV burden alongside gender-based violence and early pregnancy—urging stronger prevention and community support, with Mokhotlong showing low HIV prevention knowledge among young people. HIV Treatment Targets: UNAIDS points to Cambodia’s progress on 95-95-95 HIV goals as a model built on leadership and community partnerships, reinforcing the push for viral suppression to prevent transmission. Maternal Health: Kenya and the Beginnings Fund launch a five-year partnership to expand quality maternal and newborn care across priority counties, focusing on health workers, essential medicines, referral networks and facility systems. Disaster Preparedness: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority urges Basotho to tell the difference between everyday emergencies and true disasters that overwhelm local capacity, stressing proper reporting and assessments. Climate & Farming: Farmers are urged to act early on looming El Niño conditions by adjusting planting, improving water management and using climate-smart practices. Agriculture Insurance: Lesotho’s agriculture ministry reviews its Smart Subsidy and Agriculture Insurance pilot, aiming to build workable insurance systems using reliable risk data. Trade & Access: India and SACU (including Lesotho) sign terms of reference to restart preferential trade talks, with India seeking tariff cuts on items like cars and pharmaceuticals and more reliable access to critical minerals. Community Support: A Maseru fundraising festival is planned to support “Nete Leotlela’s” reconstructive surgeries and recovery, targeting M1 million.

HIV Response Milestone: UNAIDS says Cambodia has reached the 95-95-95 HIV targets, with Lesotho named among 14 countries worldwide that had achieved them by 2025—highlighting how strong leadership, health systems and community partnerships can drive viral suppression and cut transmission. Maternal Health Partnership: Kenya and the Beginnings Fund signed a five-year deal to expand quality maternal and newborn care, focusing on health workers, essential medicines, referral networks and better facility systems. Disaster Management Clarity: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority urged Basotho to report incidents correctly—some emergencies need local help, while true disasters overwhelm community capacity and may require national response. Climate & Food Security: Farmers were urged to prepare early for El Niño by adjusting planting times, improving water management and using climate-smart practices. Agriculture Risk Support: The Ministry of Agriculture reviewed a Smart Subsidy and Agriculture Insurance pilot, aiming to protect farmers from drought, erratic rainfall, floods and livestock diseases. Community Health Support: A Maseru fundraising festival is planned to help ‘Nete Leotlela with reconstructive surgeries and recovery.

HIV Response in Focus: UNAIDS reports Kenya has cut new HIV infections by nearly 80% since 2010, and highlights that Lesotho is among the few countries reaching major prevention and treatment milestones, including the 95-95-95 targets. Disaster Readiness: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority urged Basotho to tell the difference between everyday emergencies and true disasters that overwhelm community capacity, saying it uses on-site checks before declaring national-level support. Climate & Food Security: Farmers were urged to prepare now for El Niño, with advice on adjusting planting times, improving water management, and using climate-smart practices to protect crops and livestock. Agriculture Support: The Ministry of Agriculture reviewed its Smart Subsidy and Agriculture Insurance pilot, focusing on how insurance could help farmers manage drought, floods, and livestock disease risks. Youth & Livelihoods: Young people were encouraged to embrace agriculture and productive sectors for economic independence, with government support including tractor allocations and training. Community Health Costs: A Maseru fundraising drive is set for 29 August to support ‘Nete Leotlela’s reconstructive surgeries and recovery after a dog attack. Governance & Accountability: The Public Accounts Committee said it cannot prosecute, but urged Basotho to report suspected wrongdoing to the DCEO and police for investigation and court action.

Disaster Response Clarity: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority (DMA) urged Basotho to tell the difference between everyday emergencies and true disasters that overwhelm community capacity, saying it conducts on-site assessments before any national response or disaster declaration. Public Accountability: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) said it cannot prosecute alleged wrongdoing, urging the public to report suspected breaches to the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences (DCEO) and the Lesotho Mounted Police Service for investigation and court action. HIV Treatment Milestone: UNAIDS highlights Lesotho among countries reaching the 95-95-95 targets—knowing HIV status, being on antiretroviral treatment, and achieving undetectable viral load—linking progress to strong government-health-community partnerships. Farmers Prepare for El Niño: Farmers were urged to act early on El Niño warnings by adjusting planting times, improving water management, and adopting climate-smart practices to protect crops and livestock. Agriculture Risk Support: The Ministry of Agriculture reviewed its Smart Subsidy and Agriculture Insurance pilot, focusing on how insurance could help farmers manage climate-related risks and protect investment. Health & Community Support: A Maseru fundraising festival is planned for 29 August to support ‘Nete Leotlela’s reconstructive surgeries and recovery after a dog attack.

Disaster Response Clarity: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority says not every emergency is a “disaster,” urging Basotho to report incidents for proper assessment before resources are stretched, with disasters defined as events that overwhelm community capacity. Public Finance Accountability: The Public Accounts Committee chair says PAC cannot prosecute, but Basotho should push law enforcement like the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences and the Lesotho Mounted Police Service to investigate alleged misuse of public funds. Agriculture Risk Protection: The Ministry of Agriculture reviewed its Smart Subsidy and Agriculture Insurance pilot, focusing on how insurance can help farmers manage drought, erratic rainfall, floods and livestock disease—using reliable data to design workable products. El Niño Prep for Farmers: Farmers are being urged to act now on El Niño warnings by adjusting planting times, improving water management, and adopting climate-smart practices to protect crops and livestock. Youth and Jobs Through Farming: Youth are encouraged to pursue agriculture and other productive sectors for economic independence, with government highlighting tractor support and training-linked opportunities. Health Targets Spotlight: UNAIDS highlights Lesotho among countries reaching the 95-95-95 HIV goals, stressing that community partnerships and strong health systems drive results. Court Update (Treason Trial): Former LDF commander Mothetjoa Metsing’s treason trial was postponed after he travelled to Zambia as an election observer, with the matter now set for September. Businesswoman vs LDF: A Maseru businesswoman sues the Lesotho Defence Force for over M6 million over unpaid jersey supply from 2013, seeking damages for lost business opportunities. Fundraising for ‘Nete Leotlela: A Basotho business community fundraising festival is planned for 29 August to support ‘Nete Leotlela’s reconstructive surgeries and recovery after a dog attack.

Disaster Preparedness: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority urged Basotho to treat true disasters differently from everyday emergencies, saying it intervenes only when incidents overwhelm local capacity and uses on-site assessments to decide on official declarations. HIV Treatment Milestone: UNAIDS highlighted Lesotho among the countries reaching the 95-95-95 targets, stressing that undetectable viral load means untransmittable HIV and better health outcomes. Public Finance Accountability: The Public Accounts Committee said it cannot prosecute alleged wrongdoing, directing complaints to the DCEO and LMPS once Parliament flags possible offences. Agriculture Risk Planning: The Agriculture Ministry reviewed its Smart Subsidy and Agriculture Insurance pilot, while farmers were urged to act early on El Niño warnings with climate-smart practices and better water management. Youth & Food Security Push: The Agriculture Minister urged young people to embrace agriculture for economic independence, alongside tractor support for smallholders. Trade & Health Supply Angle: India and SACU signed Terms of Reference for a preferential trade deal, with India promising support that includes affordable medicines and skills development for the region. Local Health Community Support: A Maseru fundraising festival is planned for ‘Nete Leotlela’s reconstructive surgeries after a dog attack, aiming to raise M1 million for medical and recovery care.

HIV care milestone: UNAIDS highlights Cambodia’s achievement of the 95-95-95 targets—knowing status, on treatment, and reaching undetectable viral load—citing leadership and community partnerships; the report notes Lesotho is among the countries worldwide that have reached the goals. Treason trial delay: Former Lesotho Deputy Prime Minister Mothetjoa Metsing’s treason case was postponed to September after he travelled to Zambia as an SADC election observer. El Niño preparedness: Farmers in Maseru were urged to act now on El Niño warnings—adjust planting times, improve water management, and use climate-smart practices to protect crops and livestock. Food security support: Qacha’s Nek farmers received walk-behind tractors via a national machinery programme, including youth and women beneficiaries. Injury fundraising: Basotho business leaders plan an Aug 29 fundraising festival to support ‘Nete Leotlela’s reconstructive surgeries and recovery after a dog attack. Storm damage: Roma communities reported gale-force winds damaging St Joseph’s hospital and the Roma College of Nursing, with families left without shelter. Livestock training: Wool and mohair farmers receiving hybrid rams and bucks asked for training on proper care, citing issues like diarrhoea and mites. Trade talks with health link: India and SACU signed terms of reference for a preferential trade agreement, with India pointing to potential supply of affordable medicines to the region.

SADC Summit Watch: South Africa will host the 46th SADC Heads of State summit in Durban on 17 August, with a theme focused on resilient, sustainable and inclusive industrialisation—an agenda that matters for regional health through jobs, infrastructure and food systems. Health & Care Fundraising: In Maseru, the Basotho Business Community (We Care) is organising a 29 August fundraising festival to support ‘Nete Leotlela’s reconstructive surgeries and recovery after a dog attack, with organisers aiming to raise M1 million and stressing proper after-care. Livestock Support & Farmer Health: Quthing beneficiaries of the WaMCoOP wool and mohair programme are asking for training on caring for newly distributed hybrid rams and bucks, citing diarrhoea linked to feeding and mite problems when hybrids mix with local animals. Youth, Agriculture & Nutrition Security: Lesotho’s Agriculture Minister urged young people to embrace agriculture for economic independence, highlighting tractor support and training as part of food security efforts. Climate Risk Ahead of El Niño: FAO warned farmers to act now—adjust planting times, improve water management and adopt climate-smart practices—because El Niño is expected to bring major rainfall reductions. Trade With Health Implications: India and SACU signed terms of reference to start talks on a preferential trade agreement, with India pointing to potential supply of affordable medicines alongside other sectors.

Wool & mohair livelihoods: Baokunyaoda is boosting Lesotho’s wool and mohair trade by paying farmers faster, cutting transport costs, and linking clips directly to international buyers, with operations already reaching multiple districts. Health & disaster response: A fierce gale left families stranded and damaged parts of St. Joseph’s hospital and Roma College of Nursing in Roma, while Lesotho’s wider region also faces severe cold and snow disruptions that can hit health services. Injuries needing care: A fundraising drive is underway for “Nete Leotlela,” attacked by German Shepherds, to cover specialised medical treatment, reconstructive surgery, and after-care including mental health support. Food security & climate: Farmers are being urged to act early on El Niño warnings—adjust planting times, improve water management, and use climate-smart practices—while Qacha’s Nek farmers receive tractors to raise yields and reduce labour burdens. Public health systems: Immunisation advocates mark Lesotho’s independence push, stressing vaccination as a core national priority to protect children and strengthen the health system. Regional health pressure: South Africa’s migration crackdown is driving large-scale departures, raising concerns about access to care for people living with HIV and other health needs.

Trade & Health Supply Chains: India and SACU signed Terms of Reference to start Preferential Trade Agreement talks, aiming to conclude within a year. The scope includes goods, customs, SPS rules and dispute settlement, with India flagging possible duty concessions for sectors like pharmaceuticals and medicines—a move Lesotho could feel through regional access and pricing. Youth & Food Security: Lesotho urged young people to embrace agriculture for economic independence, alongside calls to turn El Niño warnings into early action through better planting timing, water management and climate-smart practices. Farm Support: Qacha’s Nek farmers received walk-behind tractors via a national support programme, while Prime Minister Matekane handed over 150+ tractors and machines to youth, women and associations to boost food production. Injury & Care Costs: Fundraising continues for a Maseru child attacked by German shepherds, with plans for specialised treatment and after-care. Disaster Response: Fierce winds left families stranded and damaged parts of St Joseph’s hospital and a nursing college in Roma. Mining Safety & Health Risks: South Africa’s illegal mining tragedy near Rustenburg killed 14 suspected miners (many believed from Lesotho) and injured eight, highlighting urgent risks from unsafe work and disrupted access to care.

Severe Weather Disrupts Care: A fierce gale hit Roma, damaging part of St. Joseph’s hospital and the Roma College of Nursing, with roofs ripped off and families left without shelter; lists of affected households are being compiled and Rapid Response Team assessments are planned. Trade & Health Links: India and the SACU bloc (including Lesotho) are set to sign terms of reference on Aug 12 to start talks on a preferential trade agreement within a year, with a first joint working group on health and medicine cooperation expected by December 2026. Immunisation Push for Independence: As Lesotho nears its 60th independence anniversary, civil society is urging stronger national support for immunisation financing and uptake, calling vaccination a core investment in the health system and future generations. Hospital Governance Under Scrutiny: Lesotho’s Public Accounts Committee continues probing QMMH procurement and payroll issues, including concerns about procurement policy gaps and vehicle hire practices without inspection. Livestock Health Funding Questions: Reporting highlights ongoing questions around a “dipping levy” deducted from wool and mohair farmers, including where the money went and whether it met disease-control requirements. Regional Migration Pressure: South Africa’s crackdown has driven large-scale returns of migrants to countries including Lesotho, raising concerns for children’s schooling and people living with HIV losing life-saving treatment.

Mining Safety & Health Risks: Police in South Africa’s North West say at least 14 suspected illegal miners—mostly believed to be from Lesotho—died after a mine dump site collapse near Rustenburg; eight were injured, with rescue searches ongoing and some detained under illegal mining charges. Migration & Care Disruptions: Reports say more than 178,000 immigrants have left South Africa amid crackdowns and xenophobic protests, raising alarms that children are being pulled from school and people living with HIV may be cut off from life-saving treatment—an issue that can spill into Lesotho through returning families. Lesotho Health System Oversight: Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee is probing Queen ’Mamohato Memorial Hospital (QMMH) procurement and payroll irregularities, including claims of vehicle hire without inspection and questions around dismissal processes and missing procurement policy. Immunisation Push for Independence: Lesotho civil society groups launched an Independence Immunisation Campaign, urging stronger financing, advocacy and uptake to protect children and strengthen the national health system. Food Security Support: Prime Minister Matekane handed over 150+ tractors and farming machines to youth and women farmers and associations, aiming to boost production and jobs. Regional Trade & Pharma Link: India and the SACU bloc (including Lesotho) are set to sign terms of reference for a preferential trade agreement, with cooperation flagged in critical minerals, pharmaceuticals and manufacturing.