AGP Executive Report

AFCON 2027 Qualifiers (Lesotho vs Morocco): Lesotho coach Bob Mafoso says Tuesday’s clash in Bloemfontein is “an opportunity to improve” as Morocco arrive after a 2-0 win over Gabon; Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi insists there are “no excuses,” urges patience for new players, and confirms Nayef Aguerd will miss the match while Lesotho aim to test themselves against a powerhouse. Lesotho Highlands Water Project: LHDA says it has completed a R2.3bn, 166km access road network for Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, building a heavy-haul transit corridor to support the Polihali Dam and Transfer Tunnel. Trade & business support: A three-day MSME workshop in Maseru urges Basotho firms to use AfCFTA and regional trade agreements to grow beyond the domestic market, with UN agencies backing training and market access. Regional security shock: South Africa’s weekend mass shootings continue to dominate headlines, with the Wedela tavern attack death toll rising to 18 and at least two victims identified as Lesotho nationals. Water infrastructure talks (SA–Zimbabwe): South Africa and Zimbabwe are discussing a US$500m Thuli Moswa dam to supply Limpopo’s Musina-Makhado SEZ, though no start timeline is set. Digital transformation (Commonwealth): Lesotho is in London for CTO@125, focusing on AI-driven digital transformation and inclusive digital ecosystems.

CAN 2027 Qualifier: Morocco’s Atlas Lions will face Lesotho on Tuesday, September 29 in Bloemfontein without centre-back Nayef Aguerd, who stayed behind in recovery after playing the full 2-0 win over Gabon; Morocco’s coaching staff are weighing defensive options as they aim to move toward six points in Group A. South Africa Crime Wave: A tavern shooting in Wedela near Johannesburg has killed 18 after another victim died in hospital; police say the attack involved eight gunmen armed with AK-47s and pistols, with only four victims identified so far, including two Lesotho nationals, while investigators update charges and push Operation Prosper in the area. Regional Security: South Africa also reported a second mass shooting near Cape Town that brought the weekend toll to 28, as authorities continue hunting suspects and probing motives amid fears of gang and illegal-mining links. Cross-Border Water Talks: South Africa and Zimbabwe are discussing a proposed $500m Thuli Moswa dam to supply water to the Musina-Makhado SEZ, with feasibility work still under discussion. Lesotho in Sport: Lesotho’s Tolofi/Chapole helped secure second place for the country at the CAVB Zone VI Beach Volleyball Tour, while Eswatini’s bronze finish included Lesotho’s participation in the regional event.

AFCON 2027 (Lesotho vs Morocco): Morocco’s Atlas Lions flew into South Africa and will face Lesotho on Tuesday, Sept 29, at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein after opening qualifying with a 2-0 win over Gabon. Regional trade: Botswana was commended for pushing COMESA-EAC-SADC Tripartite Free Trade Area integration, including cutting non-tariff barriers—Lesotho is among the supporters. Lesotho economy: The Central Bank of Lesotho raised its interest rate 25 basis points to 7.00% to rein in inflation, citing risks from energy costs and El Niño-linked weather impacts. NUL leadership crisis: The National University of Lesotho dispute deepened again after the Council moved to suspend acting VC Kananelo Mosito, despite a Court of Appeal order. Public-private reforms: Prime Minister Sam Matekane says nine Public-Private Dialogue reforms are stalled or awaiting Cabinet action. El Niño and climate jobs: Government urged turning climate ideas into real businesses under the PARS programme. Sports culture: Romantasy fiction is booming in South Africa, with authors drawing on African myths, including Lesotho’s Thaba Bosiu. South Africa violence (regional concern): Two shootings killed 27 people in hours, including a Wedela tavern massacre that left 17 dead.

Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) Update: Polihali Dam progress has passed the halfway mark, with the dam at 53% and Phase II overall at 56.7% after South Africa’s water minister Pemmy Majodina’s September oversight visit; impoundment is still targeted for July 2027. University Governance Crisis: The National University of Lesotho leadership dispute deepened after the NUL Council moved to suspend acting VC Kananelo Mosito again, despite a Court of Appeal order for his reinstatement. Cost of Living: The Central Bank of Lesotho raised its interest rate by 0.25 percentage points to 7.00% to rein in inflation amid risks from energy costs and bad weather. Business & Trade: Government and partners will run a three-day AfCFTA workshop to help Lesotho MSMEs sell across Africa. Treason Trial: The long-running treason case has been postponed to November 2–5, 2026 for further trial proceedings. Football: Likuena began AFCON 2027 qualifying with a 2-1 loss to Niger, and now face Morocco next.

AFCON 2027 Qualifiers (Lesotho focus): Morocco opened its campaign with a 2-0 win over Gabon, with Noussair Mazraoui scoring and Soufiane Rahimi adding the second late on; Morocco then head to South Africa to face Lesotho on Tuesday, while Lesotho’s earlier fightback in the group saw Niger beat them 2-1. Sports—Morocco squad news: Coach Mohamed Ouahbi says the tough trip to South Africa could help the Atlas Lions grow, and he played down concerns over Real Madrid winger Brahim Díaz’s minor injury; meanwhile 17-year-old Ajax midfielder Abdellah Ouazane impressed on debut. Regional sport—SAIMSA Games: South Africa will host the 2027 SAIMSA Games after Eswatini’s 2026 edition, with dates and host city to be announced later. Climate & food security (Lesotho): Lesotho is preparing for hotter, drier conditions linked to El Niño, with drought-tolerant seeds secured and farmers urged to stock animal feed and water. UN diplomacy: At the UN General Assembly, leaders renewed calls for Security Council reform, with African states pushing for permanent representation. Gaza & global politics: UNGA debate highlighted deep divisions over Gaza, with calls for sanctions and arms restrictions alongside warnings that Palestinian territory is shrinking.

AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Morocco kicked off their campaign with a 2-0 win over Gabon, with Noussair Mazraoui scoring and Soufiane Rahimi adding the second; coach Mohamed Ouahbi praised the team’s dominance and said Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz’s absence is due to a minor injury. Lesotho Football: In Group A, Lesotho sit third after losing 2-1 to Niger, with Sera Motebang scoring late; Morocco’s next qualifier is against Lesotho in Bloemfontein on 29 September. Super Eagles Update: Nigeria began Group L with a 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar, where George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored on their senior debuts. Climate & Food Security: Lesotho is preparing for hotter, drier conditions linked to El Niño, with drought-tolerant seeds and advice to stock lucerne feed and water for livestock. Sports Off the Pitch: Kenya’s Harambee Stars returned to training after an allowance dispute, ahead of their AFCON qualifier against Eritrea.

AFCON Qualifiers (Group A): Morocco kicked off the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win over Gabon in Rabat, with Noussair Mazraoui scoring in the 36th minute and Sofiane Rahimi doubling the lead in the 84th. Lesotho Football: In the same Group A, Lesotho sit third after Friday’s results, with Niger and Morocco above them on points. El Niño & Food Security: Lesotho is bracing for worsening heat and drought linked to El Niño, with a study projecting up to 42 Basotho deaths between September and February and warning of major hunger risks. Climate Adaptation Project: Lesotho launched a USD$10 million PARS project to use innovation and entrepreneurship to build climate resilience and clean jobs. Governance & Elections: The IEC has ordered a three-tier audit of the voters’ roll and the technology behind it ahead of the 2028 National Assembly elections. Cybersecurity Bill: Stakeholders are again scrutinising Lesotho’s Cybersecurity Bill 2026 after earlier versions faced resistance over concerns including privacy and freedom of expression. LHWP Allegations: Natural Resources Minister Mohlomi Moleko is accused of appointing an “unqualified” RFP member as an advisor linked to the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, which he denies. Human Rights: Hands Off Basotho plans a march over the unresolved abduction and alleged torture of activist Kananelo Boloetse.

Sexual Violence & Justice: A Bloemfontein Regional Court sentenced Lesotho citizen Baisil Steyn to 12 years for attempted rape and illegal stay in South Africa after he allegedly threatened a 16-year-old with a knife and forced entry to reach her. Human Rights & Police Conduct: In the treason trial, defence lawyers accused police of tampering with evidence at Police Headquarters, saying a bullet-damaged door was repaired while the case is ongoing; police deny the claims. Court Developments: LEFA Mabusane pleaded guilty to strangling a woman for nearly an hour but asked the Maseru court to acquit him; in the Khubetsoana drug laboratory case, warrants were issued for two Chinese accused who failed to appear. Elections & Voters’ Roll: The IEC ordered a three-tier audit of the voters’ roll, including data checks, server security, and system performance ahead of the 2028 National Assembly elections. Governance & Politics: The ABC announced a special conference on 30 October after leadership turmoil led to multiple senior officials quitting; separately, the Cybersecurity Bill 2026 is back under stakeholder scrutiny. Climate & Food Security: A study warns El Niño heat could kill about 42 Basotho between September and February, while officials say drought-tolerant seeds and fodder plans are being readied. International Ties & Development: China reaffirmed commitment to Lesotho relations; Vodacom Lesotho Foundation refurbished St Angela Home for children with disabilities; Lesotho also launched Phase One of a UN AI Blueprint and is set to host an MSME workshop on AfCFTA opportunities.

AFCON 2027 Qualifiers (Nigeria): Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle urged his players to be aggressive and play with intensity as Nigeria host Madagascar in Uyo, with Akor Adams tipped to lead the attack in Victor Osimhen’s absence. AFCON 2027 Qualifiers (Morocco): Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou warned against underestimating Gabon ahead of the Atlas Lions’ opener, while Azzedine Ounahi said Morocco are aiming to start with three points at home. Lesotho Digital Policy: Lesotho became the first country to implement the UN AI Blueprint, moving from readiness testing to implementation, as Prime Minister Matekane said the focus is on tangible benefits for people. Cybersecurity Law: Stakeholders concluded a two-day consultation on Lesotho’s Cybersecurity Bill 2026, calling for a forward-looking, adaptable legal framework. Trade & Jobs: Lesotho joined the Trans-Atlantic Cotton Partnership announced at UNGA, linking U.S. cotton to African textile production for the U.S. market. Water & Rural Hardship: A report from Likhutlong highlights communities still relying on cattle carts for transport to health services due to impassable roads. Culture & IP: The Ministry of Law launched the Mokorotlo Collective Mark Project to protect the authenticity of the national symbol and help artisans earn more.

Lesotho in the spotlight at UN: Prime Minister Samuel Matekane says Lesotho is the first country to move from assessing readiness to implementing the UN AI master plan, after work by the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation on computing, data, connectivity, skills and financing. Diplomacy: Lesotho also formalised diplomatic ties with Tajikistan at the UN General Assembly, with foreign ministers signing a joint communiqué covering cooperation in trade, industry, tourism, water and energy. AFCON 2027 qualifiers (regional football): The new AFCON qualifying cycle begins with Morocco hosting Gabon before facing Lesotho, while Nigeria kicks off against Madagascar in Uyo; CAF appointed Chadian referee Alhadji Allaou Mahamat for the Nigeria-Madagascar opener. South Africa election integrity watch (regional politics): South Africa’s IEC warned parties to rebuild public trust ahead of the November 4 local government elections, stressing peaceful campaigning and tighter rules on disinformation and intimidation of journalists. Heritage Day links: Heritage Day coverage highlights the deep Lesotho-South Africa cultural ties, with Sesotho widely spoken across the Free State and beyond. Weather: Heritage Day forecasts across South Africa point to warm, partly cloudy conditions with isolated showers and thunderstorms, plus extremely high fire danger in parts of Limpopo.

UN & Diplomacy: Lesotho says it is the first country to move into implementation of the UN AI Blueprint, after assessing readiness and testing the plan with a focus on computing power, data, skills and financing. Foreign Relations: Lesotho also marked new diplomatic ties at the UN General Assembly, with Tajikistan signing a joint communiqué to establish formal relations. Elections Watch (Region): South Africa’s IEC warned that local government polls on 4 November are happening amid historic low voter trust, urging parties to rebuild confidence, run peaceful campaigns, and protect journalists; it also says systems are being tested to avoid glitches. AFCON 2027 (Qualifiers): The qualifiers kick off with Lesotho in Group A alongside Morocco and Gabon, while referees for key matches were named, including a Chadian official for Nigeria vs Madagascar. Weather: Expect warm, partly cloudy conditions with isolated showers and thundershowers in parts of the region, with some areas facing fog patches and high UV levels.

AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: The road to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off this week with 48 teams in 12 groups and a six-round race to March, with hosts Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda already guaranteed spots. Lesotho in the mix: Lesotho are drawn in Group A alongside Morocco, Gabon and Niger, with Morocco set to host Gabon before travelling to Bloemfontein to face Lesotho. Kenya camp crisis: Harambee Stars players boycotted training over unpaid allowances ahead of their AFCON qualifier opener against Eritrea, demanding about Sh80,000 per player. Match officials: CAF named referees for key qualifiers, including Nigeria’s Joseph Ogabor for DR Congo vs Equatorial Guinea and Chadian Alhadji Allaou Mahamat for Nigeria vs Madagascar. Elections tech in SA: South Africa’s IEC says it’s ready for the 4 November local polls with improved voter management and results systems, after a ballot-position reshuffle. Water projects delays: Lesotho Highlands and other mega water projects face setbacks, with officials citing political instability, procurement issues and contractor problems.

Morocco-AFCON Qualifiers: Atlas Lions began preparations for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, training at the Mohammed VI complex ahead of Friday’s home opener against Gabon, then a trip to Bloemfontein to face Lesotho on 29 September; the squad includes Villarreal’s Ilias Akhomach, while Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz is widely expected to miss the window due to physical issues. Lesotho Football (COSAFA U-20): Lesotho’s U-20s were beaten 2-0 by South Africa in Group B, leaving them without points, while Eswatini’s late 3-2 win over Lesotho keeps the race tight ahead of the final group matches. Water Projects: Lesotho’s water infrastructure push faces delays, with officials pointing to criminality, procurement and workmanship problems, and community pushback as mega-projects lag behind schedule. China-Lesotho Ties: The Chinese Embassy in Maseru marked the PRC’s 77th founding anniversary, highlighting cooperation in energy, health, agriculture and trade, including Lesotho wool exports. World Food Day (Leribe): Leribe will commemorate World Food Day on 30 October with activities on hunger, nutrition and climate-smart agriculture at Taale Resource Centre.

COSAFA U-20: Lesotho’s Under-20s remain winless after a 2-0 loss to South Africa, while Amajita booked their semifinal spot with a 2-0 win over Angola and now need only a point against Eswatini to confirm qualification. AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Ghana’s campaign kicks off with an away trip to Côte d’Ivoire, and Morocco travel to Lesotho on 29 September as the qualifiers run home-and-away across six matchdays. Lesotho Politics: The Public Accounts Committee halted proceedings with Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital after the Medical Council and Nursing Council failed to submit required reports on unqualified practice. Sports Transfers: The PSL mid-year transfer window has closed with clubs making over 220 signings, but no major last-minute moves reported. Weather: Expect warm conditions with morning fog and afternoon thunderstorms in parts of the region, including areas along the Lesotho border. Regional Sports Hosting: Kenya says it will host the Africa Boxing Championships in October, with Lesotho among confirmed participants. Education & Research: NUL signed an MoU with a Russian university to expand research, Russian-language instruction, and an AI in Education course for Lesotho lecturers.

COSAFA U-20 Football: South Africa beat Lesotho’s U-20 2-0 in Group B, with Lazola Maku and Steven Mendes scoring as the “Palanquinhas” slipped to second place behind Bafana Bafana. Local Sports: Amajita reached the COSAFA U-20 semi-finals after beating Angola 2-0, while Lesotho’s U-20 earlier faced a tough COSAFA run. World Food Day: Leribe will mark World Food Day on 30 October at Taale Resource Centre under the theme “Innovate today, nourish tomorrow,” with climate-smart farming demonstrations and a clay oven showcase. Parliament Oversight: PAC proceedings involving Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital were paused after the Medical Council and Nursing Council failed to submit required qualification reports, with follow-ups continuing on alleged funds issues. Education & Research: NUL signed an MoU with Perm State Humanitarian Pedagogical University to expand Russian-language teaching and launch an “AI in Education” course for Lesotho lecturers. Tourism & Culture: Ghana’s Kacstone Records and Sister Kingdom Network took part in the Lesotho Tourism Pitso in Maseru, including presenting a Northern Ghana smock to Lesotho’s tourism minister. Weather: Tuesday is expected to be partly cloudy and cool to warm, with isolated afternoon showers and thunderstorms, and morning fog patches near the Lesotho border.

PAC and QMMH: Lesotho’s Public Accounts Committee halted proceedings against Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital after the Medical Council and Nursing Council failed to submit required reports on doctors allegedly practising without qualifications, while the PAC also followed up on a reported M4 million deposit expected into the hospital’s Nedbank account. Health and pain: A UCT-led study says one in seven hospital patients across Africa experiences severe pain, with 67.9% reporting some pain—highlighting a major gap in acute care. Travel access: South Korea published an ETA list for eight African countries, including Lesotho (60 days), Eswatini (30), and South Africa (30). Politics at ABC: The All Basotho Convention saw major leadership shake-ups as three NEC members resigned within hours, following the party’s secretary general stepping down last week. Tourism ties: Lesotho’s Tourism Pitso in Maseru hosted a Ghanaian delegation that presented a traditional Northern Ghana smock to the tourism minister, pushing cultural tourism links. Public service push: The Public Service Minister urged Quthing officials to improve delivery and tackle workplace incivility. Sports: Correctional Sunrise won the men’s title at the Red Skins International Open Volleyball Tournament in Maseru; Lesotho also featured in regional U20 COSAFA results.