Prime Minister Matekane Addresses Forward Africa Leaders Symposium
Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane of Lesotho delivered a pivotal keynote address at the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Forward Africa Leaders Symposium 2025. The event, held on September 22, 2025, at the NASDAQ headquarters in New York City, took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80). Prime Minister Matekane emphasized the critical need for African leaders to invest in digital transformation as a pathway to sustainable development and inclusive growth across the continent.
Lesotho's Leadership in Digital Governance
During his address, Prime Minister Matekane underscored Lesotho's proactive role in shaping Africa's digital future. He highlighted that Lesotho currently chairs the African Union's Specialized Technical Committee on Communications and Information Technology (STC-CICT). Under this leadership, the African Union has developed the Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy and formulated Africa's position on the Global Digital Compact. Matekane stated that 'Digital transformation is not only a pathway to economic growth, but a lever for inclusive development and resilient societies,' emphasizing the importance of cooperation, strong governance, and innovation that benefits all citizens.
National and Continental Digital Initiatives
The Prime Minister detailed Lesotho's commitment to digital advancement both domestically and continentally. He announced that Lesotho has recently joined the Smart Africa Alliance and is set to host AU member states next month to validate the Digital Transformation Implementation Assessment Report. Nationally, the government has implemented a National Digital Framework and is piloting various digital infrastructure projects, including digital ID systems, electronic payments, and data management platforms.
Call for Investment and Collaboration
Prime Minister Matekane urged for strategic investments in several key areas to accelerate Africa's digital transformation. These include:
- Connectivity, to bridge the digital divide and bring unconnected populations online.
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Centres, noting Lesotho's unique advantages such as abundant water, high altitude, cool temperatures, and a commitment to clean energy.
- Energy infrastructure, recognized as the backbone of digital transformation.
- Digital skills, to empower youth and entrepreneurs.
- Digital trade, to unlock the potential of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The symposium, convened by the African Peer Review Mechanism, served as a platform for high-level dialogues among African Heads of State, government officials, policymakers, and global stakeholders, focusing on the theme 'Advancing Africa's Digital Transformation: Inspiring Action. Accelerating Growth. Amplifying Impact.'
5 Comments
Mariposa
While the push for digital transformation is essential for Africa's economic future, ensuring that these advancements truly reach and benefit rural and marginalized communities remains a significant challenge. Equity must be a core focus.
BuggaBoom
Finally, a clear vision for Africa's digital future! This is truly inspiring.
Mariposa
The call for digital skills is commendable and vital for youth employment, but it must be paired with massive investments in foundational education and stable infrastructure to be truly effective. One cannot succeed without the other.
Muchacha
Matekane's emphasis on governance and cooperation is crucial, but the history of large-scale African initiatives often shows implementation hurdles due to corruption and lack of sustained political will. Accountability is paramount for success.
Comandante
PM Matekane is absolutely right. Digital transformation is key to our continent's growth.