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Fire meextradition if I fail: Kabi dares Thabane Metsing could be suspended . . . health minister outlines ailments in the system .STAFF . .REPORTERS as SADC nudges govt to ASERU – The Minister of Health Nkaku Kabifor reforms compromise
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has said if he fails to resuscitate the country’s ailing healthcare system in a few months’ BONGIWE ZIHLANGU AND time, Prime Minister Thomas RAY MUNGOSHI Thabane should not hesitate to show him ASERU the door.– Government He was is addressing willing to delegates suspend at the just-ended Lesotho attempts 19 tothextradite CouncilLesotho of Non-Governmental exiled Congress of Organisations’ week. D e m o c ra t s NGO (LCD ) leader Kabi explained howSouth the Mothetjoa Metsing from ministry of health is facing a Africa to boost chances of ending cocktail of daunting challenges the standoff with opposition from operating on aimpetus shoestring parties and give to budget, national excessivereforms. bureaucracy, sluggish shortage lack of Public of Eyedoctors, can report that equipment in public SADC mediators havehealth been facilities,intoshuttle Queen Mamohato engaged diplomacy Memorial Hospital (QMMH) between Maseru and South Africa which he was lately throwing aimed atsaid reaching a settlement publicity the stunts. between ruling coalition and an upbeat Kabi said he the But grouping of opposition parties was impressed how Thabane, which are at with loggerheads over who has previously served as Metsing’s fate. Principal Secretary of the Ministry SADC Preventive Mission in of Health, is deeplyChairperson passionate Lesotho (SAPMIL) about healthcare and Matondo is willing Dr Bernito Matias to help himtorevive confi rmed Publicthe Eyecrumbling yesterday healthMetsing system.was crucial to the that In anreform interview with adding a local ongoing process, radio on Tuesday, explained the former deputyKabi premier could thatreturning part of the problem is not be home “soon rather even lack of and funds but“under errors an of than later” not commission process”. and omission by those extradition whoHours run the healthcare system. He before Matondo’s gave the example some large interview, however,ofgovernment sumsthreatened of money stashed within the had to press ahead system which could end up being with national reforms unilaterally returned to Treasury unclaimed if opposition partiesas snubbed the money, yetSADC doctors have waited for last-ditch initiative to coax severalinto months to the be paid their them joining watershed on-call allowances. process geared towards stiffening also expressed deep the Kabi country’s creaking democratic disappointment and dissonance institutions. in the F oadministration r e i g n a f f aofi the r s health and system, further citing the case international relations minister in which an unnamed official Lesego Mokgothi on Wednesday is allegedsaid to have authorised morning government was leave to forgoall at Queen ready fulldoctors steam ahead with Elizabeth II but hospital, when the the reforms was stalling to festive a peak in give theseason, regional bodyperiod time to healthcare is fast-approaching. try and persuade the opposition will have toCongress account led “Someone by the Democratic for this allocation of (DC) andstrange the Lesotho Congress leave,” Kabi said ontoair, further of Democrats (LCD) come back revealing only one doctor had into the fold. volunteered defer leave to serve He was,tohowever, quick to Basotho. issue a caveat that should the He detailed how thecoalition already seven-party opposition fragile healthcare system has scupper the SADC overture the recently “train come under enormous reforms will soon leave” strainbehind, and isasinthey direcannot need be of them
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allowed to hold the country to ransom ad nauseum. “We have tried everything humanly possible to engage opposition, we have not given up. We believe in the process of inclusivity. “We have limited time on hand, we can’t wait forever and let or allow opposition to hold the process to ransom due to their unfounded preconditions. SADC has requested us to give them a little time to engage with them. We have revised the roadmap, and we can’t keep on revising it time and again as if we are not sure of what we are doing. “I must say this was the last time such revision happens on account of opposition not engaging. The train will soon leave the platform. Those who are on board will participate in the reform journey,” Mokgothi said. I n s h a r p c o n t ra s t to Ma kgo t h i ’s sab re - ra tt l i n g, Matondo urged a softening of attitudes and the need for the feuding sidesNkaku to meet Minister of Health Kabi in the halfway house to accelerate the resuscitation aftin er line many years of reform process with fastneglect. approaching SADC deadlines. During addressconcern at the Matondothe expressed NGO week seminar, Kabi tookat a at the sluggish manner swipe at the lethargic approach which the reforms process was to duty shown by some moving, attributing this health to the professionals. “reluctance” by government and Basotho to weaccommodate do not have a the“As opposition sense of urgency and it is need evident each other adding “they to even in clinics where healthcare get their acts together”. workers seem to not have a sense While outlining SAPMIL of urgency,” he said. successes, such as the stabilisation “ Hea l t h ca re wo rke rs was in of the security situation which government hospitals seem to conducive for implementation be duringMatondo work because of irritated the reforms, was they deal with too many worried that with four patients months and are short staffup ed left the for hospitals his mission to wrap and there is a serious lack of its Lesotho mission, politicians specialists. The ministry of health were not “exactly” rising to evidently hasand to source the occasion grabbingmore the doctors, especially specialists,” opportunity to turn around their he added. fortunes by “closing country’s revealed that foreign thisHe bleak chapter of its history”. medical specialists that were “But to be frank, we ourselves initially set to arrive in the country also feel that the process is a bit this year, and did not because sluggish thatarrive there’s need government have budget to to speed itdid upnot because we are pay their “M3,000the monthly pocket really running risk of not money toour buydeadline. some airtime”. meeting SADC has
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LCD leader Mothetjoa Metsing decided that the process must be completed by May 2019. SAPMIL extension also runs until the end of November this year. So, we are really running out of time. “But the responsibility lies with Basotho. We are already in July, we are left with four m o n t h s to o u r ex te n s i o n . He told delegates LCN’s Whether there will be at a second NGO week qualityextension or that not isthe a decision to assured were going be takenforeign by ourdoctors principals, their to be deployed across the country excellencies, the presidents, given as part of efforts to the conditions on the improve ground, service provision. given the achievements and our “They were not going to be challenges.” paid salaries,” he said while SAPMIL arrived in Lesotho emphasising that shortage of last November to apave way for health workers in general stood SADC recommended reforms in the country’s realising emanating fromway the to Phumaphi universal healthcare. Commission findings. He M arevealed t o n d o again a d mthat i t t the ed procurement process medical government and the for opposition ewere q u i pengaged m e n t wh in i c ha wa s a l sof o game supposed to arrive in the country intrigue and brinkmanship, before year-end, was stalled by with the opposition making high levels of bureaucracy in incessant demands while refusing government, encumbered with to recognise any initiative by manual authorisation of ten government. requiring multiple signatures and Government, on the other slow hand,communications. was also not living up to “The ministry ofithealth has some commitments had made appealed to Basotho doctors to the opposition. working South Africa to helpwe in “In ainway yes, because district hospitals butagain they cannot have been time and asking come before wethe getboard the medical Basotho across to give equipment ordered,” the reformswe a chance. To he putsaid. their alsoinrevealed howthis an actsKabi together order to turn
bleak page of their history. If the opposition decides to undermine everything that comes from the government and the government is taking its time to fulfil certain commitments undertaken by the government itself, then we are doing ourselves a big disservice. So, people should really put their apparent tug-of-war between acts together and compromise. the“It government and Q ueen is a give and take process but Mamohato Memorial Hospital, at the end of the day the benefits commonly known themselves. as Tšepong, are for Basotho which has led to the latter closing Government, the opposition and some wards, had also placed all other stakeholders needthe to national healthcare under compromise and putsystem the needs of unprecedented distress. this country first.” Tšepong, O n M a ywhich 2 tserves h i s yase athe r, country’s man referral SADC, government healthcare and nonfacility, is reportedly turning away governmental organisations patients requiring operations, representatives, met with Metsing telling them to come in in South Africa, with back a view 2019 as it has already exceeded to convincing him to return to its quota of patients for 2018 in Lesotho. terms ofmet its agreement with the “We and the atmosphere government. was very good, engaging on both Ministry of Health’s Principal sides. There are underlying issues Secretary ‘Mole Kumalo earlier that need to be addressed, mainly this apparently instructed the the year security and free passage hospital to conform the back. terms for Mr Metsing to to come of its government contract with has government The indeed and slash escalating patients’ undertaken to provide all the admissions. security. The responded by “We hospital are actually left with closing somebecause wards saying it was Mr Metsing we actually trying to comply with Kumalo’s recognise that he has been a instruction but Kabi insisted last former deputy-prime minister week been twice that and there leaderhas of never a political
communication from the ministry instructing the hospital to limit admissions. To compound matters further, in an unprecedented move last week and in an attempt to break a deadlock with the ministry, some doctors working in public hospitals said they were pressing on with their industrial action from last Saturday. This was after last minute attempts to avert the planned strike by aggrieved doctors had failed. These doctors said they will not take call duties anymore until the ministry pays their outstanding on-call allowances. The doctors’ list of demands includes a review of the current on-call allowance from M600 per month. Public Eye understands that the doctors have repeatedly petitioned the ministry over the years about the poor working conditions and the dire consequences, but their pleas apparently fell on deaf ears. Butthat thehas unprecedented party a significantmove base bythis thecountry. doctors, it seems, has in finally the in health “Heshaken has been exile.ministry So, we andlooking the entire are for government. ways and means, to Finance Minister Dr Moeketsi provide all the modalities for him Majoro confito rmed last week that to feel safe come back home. he knew about the then planned The government has provided a strike and toguarantees, work hand number of vowed security in hand to SADC. resolve We the and we with have Kabi too as doctors’ grievances in getting a prudent are on the verge of a manner. breakthrough and we believe it by the crumbling willWorst be soonhit rather than later.” health are we marginalised “To system be candid have been peopletheingovernment rural areas - the asking to suspend constituency theprocess ruling Thabaneit (extradition ) for the led all Convention (ABC) sake ofBasotho peace and reconciliation in claims to fight for,the thegovernment poor where the country. And often there are no to doctors and is willing to do that, suspend it. people extremely vulnerable. “Weareourselves as SADC, Kabi acknowledged week would not wish for Mrlast Metsing that he was receiving numerous to return to Lesotho under an reports from patients about extradition process. So, there’s declining service in the an agreement or a delivery pre-agreement public sector. that if health we agree with Mr Metsing he said, resulted in on This, a number of has things, if he very long times home, at mostwe of agrees towaiting come back the facilities a lowering of the will provideand security for him,” quality of service in others. Matondo said. But he attempted to shift “Actually, he was given the the blametofordefi thenefailure civil privilege or to on choose servants. the security structure that he may He said he waswith. painfully be comfortable So, aware once of poor or lack of management that is agreed upon we don’t see skillsanybody in most ofshould the apathetic why push forcivil an servants andBut alsoweaware of the extradition. are talking negative attitudes some and we believe thatofwe willhealth find a professionals in most of the health Continued on page 8 facilities.
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Friday December 21, 2018 3
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Friday December 21, 2018
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I am still a DC MP: Pontso Sekatle KANANELO BOLOETSE
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A S E R U – Fo r m e r President of the Democratic Congress (D C) Wom e n’s L ea g ue, D r ’Matumelo Sekatle has accused the party’s National Chairperson, Motlalentoa Letsosa of removing her from the WhatsApp group of DC’s Members of Parliament “despite the fact that” she “is still the party’s legislator”. “He (Letsosa) has removed me from the WhatsApp group. I do not know why he did it because I am still an MP for DC. I do not understand why he is even talking about me in the media,” Dr Sekatle said on Wednesday. She was respond i ng to Letsosa’s damning remarks that the party’s leadership would not be surprised if she deserted DC to join the ruling All Basotho Convent ion (A BC) l i ke her husband Semano Sekatle – an MP for Lebakeng – did this week. “It will be very surprising if she does not follow suit. We would really be very surprised i f she says she is not goi ng anywhere,” Letsosa told Public Eye on Wednesday this week. Sema no Sekatle, a longtime staunch supporter of DC leader Pakalitha Mosisili, served divorce papers on the DC on Monday and declared he was joining ABC – DC’s arch rivals, and was instantly appointed and sworn in as Minister of Tourism, Environment and Culture. At the swearing-in ceremony held at the Royal Palace on Monday, Sekatle was flanked by his wife Dr Pontso Sekatle who is DC’s Member of Parliament for Qacha’s Nek, but no other key DC MPs were present. He later addressed a press conference where he outlined at length why he left DC and accused the party of stif ling dissent. Even though he did not say whether any other prominent DC names have aligned themselves with his changing of sides, he has indicated he hopes to draw members from DC to ABC and his wife this week resigned from the DC’s women league which she led since the party’s formation in 2012. This, observers have said, is a harbinger that she will soon join her husband. Yesterday she emphasised to this paper that she was still an MP for DC and seemed upset that Letsosa had removed her from the WhatsApp group. She has also been known to be a staunch Mosisili supporter. In 2016, she actively defended Mosisili when the then party’s youth league leader maverick Thuso Litjobo tried to remove him from the helm saying he had lost touch with grassroots members of the party. Letsosa on Wednesday told this paper that Sekatle who was
Former President of the Democratic Congress (DC) Women’s League, Dr ’Matumelo Sekatle
. . . as husband speaks on DC ‘sinking ship’ KABELO MASOABI MASERU – The Lebakeng Constituency Member of Parliament Semano Sekatle on Tuesday described his former party Democratic Congress (DC) as “a sinking ship”. Sekatle, who was the former ruling party’s secretary general jumped ship this week in a development that has fuelled widespread speculation among political watchers in Maseru. Sekatle, who was appointed Minister of Tourism is expected to cross the floor in parliament soon
to join All Basotho Convention that heads the coalition government. “The party is rapidly losing its hold on executive members who are of great integrity. The leadership often indulge in internal disputes stimulated by secret meetings and lust for power,” he explained. He added he was treated like an outsider and disagreements in meetings pointing to a failure of self-introspection by senior members which he said will be the party’s undoing. “I left to ensure my safety
and that of my family and truly thank Ntate Thabane (Motsoahae Thabane the Prime Minister) for coming to my rescue at a time I really needed help,” he was quoted as having said. Sekatle’s abrupt departure has not only weakened the largest opposition party but has also dealt a heavy blow on the coalition of opposition parties’ aspirations to reclaim power, political watchers said this week. In the past elections Sekatle and his wife ‘Matumelo Sekatle scored the highest votes for DC in their respective constituencies of
Lebakeng and Qacha’s Nek. Meanwhile the following changes in cabinet positions were also announced this week: Leshoboro Mohlajoa appointed the minister of forestry, Litšoane Litšoane now the minister of Local Government and Chieftainship, Lehana Lehana the minister of Trade and Industry, Tefo Mapesela is now the minister of defence while Mokherane Tsatsanyane and Tsehlo Ramarou have been appointed deputy ministers in the ministries of public works and transport, and in the office of the Prime Minister respectively.
DC’s secretary general before he defected to ABC had effectively left the party a long time ago and Monday’s announcement was just a formality. “He (Sekatle) had stopped attending national executive meetings. He was no longer active in the party. “His announcement this week that he was joining ABC did not come as a blow because we knew about it long time ago. His change of sides was very apparent but we just decided to keep it under wraps,” Letsosa said. He sought to downplay the i mpa ct Sekat le’s depa r tu re
w i l l have on DC wh ich ha s continuously lost constituencies and prominent members in the last three years. “Some people are saying his departure signals the end of an era for DC. They are wrong. He was never a political force and his departure did not even galvanise the people,” he said and questioned if Sekatle will have political life outside of the DC. He said DC had in its short history gone through similar experiences—such as opposition that arose within its ranks in 2016 that was led by the party’s then deputy leader Monyane Moleleki.
Moleleki, Litjobo and others were suspended at the climax of power st r uggle w it h t he party’s leader, former Prime Minister Mosisili, leading to an unprecedented schism in the party. Molelek i lef t to sta r t a breakaway political party Alliance of Democrats (AD) which now forms part of the ruling coalition of four parties that ousted the Mosisili-led c u m b e rs om e s eve n-pa r t y coalition government in June last year. Litjobo is the spokesperson of AD. Since the June 2017 snap poll,
DC has lost three MPs to the ruling coalition. I n 2 017, l e g i s l a t o r f o r Semena Constituency Tlohelang Aumane was appointed minister of development planning, he consequently crossed the floor in parliament from DC to AD. I n Fe b r u a r y, M o t h e p u Mahapa was appointed second deputy minister of education and training aft er he also defected from DC to AD. Sekatle is the third to leave and mongers from within the ruling coalition have predicted a total of up to 10 MPs from the DC would have been lost to other parties by March next year.
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Khetheng murder case heard in-camera . . . as the accused’s security concerns take centre-stage RELEBOHILE TSOAMOTSE
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A S E R U - Po l i c e Constable Mokalekale Khetheng’s sensational murder case took a new twist this week after the presiding judge ordered that the case be heard in-camera. This after defense counsel, Attorney Qhalehang Letsika and Kings Counsel Karabo Mohau, raised security concerns and asked that members of the press and the public be excluded so that the accused persons can put their issues before court. There was speculation the “security concerns” were related to the appearance in court of the LCD Deputy Leader, Tšeliso Mokhosi, who has reportedly gone into hiding again, following reports that police wanted to question him on another murder case. Justice Molefi Makara ordered all those present to leave the courtroom to allow the court to deal with the issues put before it. “In the best interest of justice a n d m u t u a l u n d e rsta n d i n g between the parties, I divert this courtroom into chambers on account of issues put by defense,” Justice Makara said. A f te r t h e a d j o u r n m e n t , Justice Makara told the court that progress has been made during their closed sitting and that a solution had been reached to the concerns put by the accused persons. “To you ladies and gentlemen in the gallery, it was not the court’s intention to take you out but in
STAFF REPORTER Refiloe Mokone, private secretary to mines minister, Keketso Sello, who is facing diamond smuggling charges in Ladybrand, South Africa, has been granted a R1 500 bail. Mokone, 42, and her coaccused Bokang Nthatisi, 28, Bakoena Mokoena, 24 and Manala Ntsibanda, 26, appeared before Ladybrand Magistrate Deon Mohala yesterday afternoon. The quartet was netted in a sting operation selling three 7.54 carat stones valued at R8 676. 00 between November 26 and December 3 this year, in Ladybrand. They have been remanded to January 31, 2019 to allow investigators to tie up some loose ends, the court was told. Mo h a l a f u rt h e r s l a p p e d weekly reporting conditions on all accused. While Mokone and Mokoena, both Lesotho nationals, would
the interest of justice and security concerns put by the defense, the accused have put their concerns and we have reached a solution,” Justice Majara said. “We are at a stage where we will listen to the case and let justice prevail,” he added. Justice Makara then postponed the case to January 22 for the purpose of identifying hearing dates after the crown’s Advocate Nnnaki Nku proposed they be given the date by the office of the registrar which is preparing for the arrival of foreign judges in the country. A foreign judge is also expected to hear Khetheng’s murder case. Before postponing the case, Justice Makara asked the defense counsel if they were comfortable with the chosen date, but Attorney Qhalehang Letsika responded that there was nothing they could do as the defense since the awaited judges have repeatedly failed to arrive several times before even after promises they would be there. The judges remain unavailable and are expected to arrive next month and it’s only then that the accused would know about their trial dates. “My Lord, there is no point in complaining because we have always complained about the delay of the judges while they still remain unavailable, even the information to us about their arrival is a problem. We have asked the office of the registrar to update us but we only learn about the updates on foreign judges when we appear in court,” Letsika said.
Police carry the remains of Khetheng after exhumtion from Lepereng cemetery in 2017 in this file picture
Former commissioner of police, Molahlei Letsoepa, is accused together with Lesotho Congress for Democracy (LCD) deputy leader, Tšeliso Mokhosi and four other police officers for Constable Mokalekale Khetheng’s murder in March 2016. Senior Superintendent Thabo Tšukulu, Senior Inspector Mabitle Matona, Sub Inspector Haleokoe Taasoane and Inspector Mothibeli Mofolo are also accused in the murder case. Khetheng who was stationed in Mokhotlong disappeared on March 26 2016 after he was earlier that day arrested by Leribe police in connection with an arson incident that allegedly occurred at the Hlotse Pitso House. It was alleged that instead of duly booking him, Hlotse police handed him over to their
colleagues from Maseru who were in the company of members of the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF). H i s d i sa p p ea ra n c e t h e n prompted his father Thabo Khetheng to lodge an application before the High Court on July 18, 2016 demanding that he be produced in court dead or alive. But police authorities defended the matter in court, contending Khetheng had absconded from duty and his whereabouts were unknown. Police also accused Thabo Khetheng of deliberately omitting crucial information in his court papers. They contended that Khetheng’s father clearly had no “intimate” knowledge of his son’s movements and whereabouts. One of the police officers who arrested Khetheng at his home in
Minister’s assistant out on bail report at Ladybrand Police Station on Mondays, on the other hand South African citizens Nthatisi and Ntsibanda were ordered to present themselves to Kanana Police Station in Orkney, North West. Prosecutor Marie Yzel did not oppose the bail application, conceding none of the quartet had a criminal record. In addition, she told the court the accused Basotho had promised to appear in court for trial when required, while their South African accomplices would surrender their passports to police. Dressed in an all-white outfit, with her hair tied neatly at the back in a black doek, Mokone appeared chastened as she filed first into the dock. She stood alongside her co-accused in the dock for the
entire 30-minutes hearing, staring straight ahead and saying nothing. Mokone’s lawyer, Advocate Setouto, pleaded with the court to release her on R1 500 bail, arguing she was a divorced grandmother of one, and mother to three and was now the sole breadwinner of the family after her former husband had abdicated his responsibilities. The magistrate appeared momentarily shocked when Advocate Setouto told him that at 24 years of age, Mokoena was a pastor and “owns his own church”, Faith Action. Attorney Kennedy Ngomongwe, of Ngomongwe Attorneys, Klerksdorp, assured the court his clients – Nthatisi and Ntsibanda – were not flight risks. Yzel told the court the case
against the accused was based on video footage shot during an undercover operation and supported by witness statements. Although five people were initially arrested, the fifth was released without charge, and could testify against the accused. In response to a question from Mohala on the value and source of the diamonds, Yzel said the diamonds were “presumably smuggled from Lesotho”. She momentarily fumbled over the value and was helped out by Mohala who asked her whether they were indeed valued at R8 676. 00 as shown in the record he had. She concurred, triggering murmurs in the gallery. This was because initial reports had put the value of the diamonds first at R500 million. The hearing was delayed
Sebothoane, Leribe later testified against her superiors when the matter continued in court. Makotoko told the court she along with Constables Mphutlane and Ntoane arrested Khetheng before handing him over to their superior officer, Inspector Mofolo who headed the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). O n August 11 last year, Khetheng’s body was exhumed at the Lepereng Cemetery in Maseru. As part of the investigations, three employees of the Lesotho Funeral Services were also detained and interrogated by police. The body was then reburied in Mokhotlong on August 26 last year while the former police commissioner and LCD deputy leader together with four police officers stand accused of the murder.
as lawyers shuttled between the court holding cells and the courtyard, consulting with the accused and their relatives. When the case finally started, the courtroom, packed mainly with Basotho from Maseru, including a smattering of top civil servants, fell into an expectant hush as people sat intently to catch the exchange between the lawyers. Mokone’s legal troubles have sensationally captured national attention because she works for Sello and was travelling in his official car when she was arrested. Despite his vehement rejection of speculation linking him to the matter, civil society has demanded he quits Cabinet. He has, however, received support from the ABC (Kobo-Tata ea Basotho) Hlotse Constituency Committee which early this week asked his critics to allow the law to take its course before casting aspersions on his reputation. STAFF REPORTER/TMG Live
Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018 7
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Metsing will be hauled before court: DCEO RELEBOHILE TSOAMOTSE
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ASERU - Borotho Matsoso, director general of the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences (DCEO), has urged a restive public to be patient since the anti-graft body will ultimately haul Lesotho Congress for Democracy (LDC) leader, Mothetjoa Metsing before the courts. He maintained the DCEO has a case against Metsing and would lay charges against him when all due processes are complete but said the public should be patient to allow the law to take it’s course, he said in a statement this week. The DCEO’s statement, which has been interpreted more as a verdict by the anti-corruption body, as to who is in the wrong or clean between BNP’s leader Thesele ’Maseribane and the LCD leader Mothejoa Metsing, comes in the wake of a public outcry that very little is being done to actually try corruption cases in the courts of law. The latest statement f lies in the face of the directorate’s
announcement earlier this year that investigations against Metsing were complete and taking him to court was the only stage left. Matsoso maintained DCEO would go ahead and press charges against Metsing in spite of the controversial Clause 10 Agreement between government and opposition which has since been declared unconstitutional by the High Court (sitting as the Constitutional Court). Clause 10 has never been congruent with the law governing DCEO hence the institution was never obliged by its contents. Advancing the argument that the clause, being a product of regional agreement surpasses national laws, was baseless, he said since that would be in conflict with the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption, Article 7. The AU close states “subject to the provisions of the domestic legislation, any immunity granted to public officials shall not be an obstacle to the investigation of allegations against and prosecution of such officials.”
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As a member and signatory to the AU convention, he said, Lesotho is bound by the said article and therefore Clause 10 of the agreement, even without the Constitutional Court ruling, was bound to be of no effect because of the country’s laws and its continental commitment in terms of the AU Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption. The DCEO has in the past four years been investigating suspicious deposits that were made into Metsing’s bank accounts. In 2014, when investigations against him were ongoing, Metsing lodged a constitutional case against DCEO alleging that the investigations or interrogation of his bank account was a violation to his right to privacy. He had asked the court to declare the acquisition of his account information by DCEO from the two banks as unconstitutional. The former deputy prime m i n i s te r a rg u e d t h a t t h e investigations into his accounts were a strategy to tarnish his name by his coalition partners then, but the High Court dismissed his application in February 2015 which he subsequently appealed against but was again rejected by the Court of Appeal in November 2015. The suspicious deposits into Metsing’s account were made while he was Local Government and Chieftainship Affairs minister and deputy Prime Minister in the 2012 coalition government that was headed Dr Thomas Motsoahae Thabane. He allegedly received M328, 000 and M118, 000 between April 2013
and June 2013 and that a deposit of M524, 964 into his account was also unexplained. This was after the allocation of a road tender to a construction company that was working on roads in parts of Maseru city. The company which was awarded the M120 million tender is alleged to have won the tender on Metsing influence. As part of its investigations, the DCEO last year summoned the former deputy Prime Minister to its offices to help with the investigations, a move that Metsing on the day dismissed as plan to tarnish his image. Matsoso, however, underlined that Metsing’s case would go through a normal court process since he was only a suspect at the moment so the public should be patient since every suspected offender should presumed innocent until proven guilty. He said the public should also consider the importance of the ongoing reforms process so that all suspected wrongdoers would eventually be taken to court. “With due respect and humility, we wish to ask for public’s indulgence and patience to give due process of the law time to roll out taking into account the extremely important ongoing reform process so that all the suspected culprits would be duly placed before courts of law,” he said. He was speaking at a press briefing to address the nation’s concerns and updates on the cases that DCEO is dealing with. Matsoso provided updates on two cases which he said were more prominent among the concerns
of both the media and the public judging by the flood of enquiries about them. These are the case involving Chief Thesele Maseribane and Aron Banks, as well as the DCEO case against Mothejoa Metsing’s alleged corruption. C o r r u p t i o n a l l ega t i o n s were earlier this year levelled against Maseibane, who is the communications, science and technology minister on issuance of mining rights to a mining company, one of whose directors was Aron Banks but DCEO, after embarking on investigations, said that “proper procedure was followed and mining rights were accordingly issued”. The DCEO also said it not come across any malfeasance pointing to money laundering in as far as the money paid to Maseribane by Aron Banks was concerned. Suspicion of money laundering which Matsoso said was alleged between Banks and Maseribane did not match what transpired between them so DCEO could not prefer charges against him. “We came across no misfeasance in terms of money laundering in as far as the money paid to the Honorable Thesele by Aron was concerned; the elements of money laundering did not match what transpired between the two hence no money laundering charges could be preferred against him,” he said. “This investigation became swift and straight to the point because the person involved was cooperative and more than willing to clarify certain issues relating to him and Aron Banks,” he added.
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Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018
News
Let’s not leave debts for our children: Aumane LAWRENCE KEKETSO
M
ASERU - Lesotho’s leaders need to find ways of making the best out of available resources and avoid creating a legacy of debt for future generations, development planning minister Aumane has said. He wa s s p e a k i n g i n a n exclusive interview with Public Eye in the aftermath of a donors conference last week which saw key development partners including EU, US, the Chinese and many others gathering to outline their plans and pledges for Lesotho. The crucial gathering came at time when Lesotho has just acquired the status of a low to medium income country having been moved from a least developed country category, ironically at a time when traditional revenue streams like Sacu are dwindling. “When we had plenty of grants and aid as well as revenue collected from our different domestic and regional sources, we were extravagant and never thought of the times when the coffers would dry up and donors would be scarce,” said Aumane in an interview with Public Eye. L e s o t h o ’s n e e d fo r macroeconomic stability and strengthening of institutions to steer economic growth and therefore development is more urgent than ever before, especially with the apparent dwindling aid flows. “There is no better time to bring change than now,” says Development Planning Minister, Tlohelang Aumane, further calling for all to take the current reforms as a time for both ref lection and building new roads to an economically stable state.
H e s a i d t h e c o u n t r y ’s leadership has to think deeply and find ways to make the best of the available resources and avoid banking on debt that will ultimately suffocate future generations. Aumane added the current lean years call for tougher macroeconomic policies have to come to the fore ahead of any compromises for political expediency. As part of the solution, Aumane emphasised the need to deploy the appropriate technocrats and experts within the civil servants and depoliticise the sector. “The question is, how do we guard against eroding our institutions and fully depoliticise our civil service? As long as we give the politicians the upper hand, it is not going to work. These institutions are supposed to be spearheaded by experts with the know-how, and they should be afforded the respect they deserve so they can advise the government accordingly,” he noted. Aumane however believes it is not all doom and gloom for the Mountain Kingdom, as he sees plenty of opportunities Lesotho can draw from, whether in the form of cheap loans or small grants that the country can access. “As a least developing country and now acquiring the status of a low to middle income state, we now have reduced opportunities to get grants. Our borrowing is becoming more and more expensive, but, we can still access low concessional loans and other facilities. The question is how we utilise these facilities to advance the country,” he said. He said there is a lot that the country still needs to do in order to open the economy for its sustainability, calling for more robust and industrious methods
Development Planning Minister, Tlohelang Aumane
of investment in order to boost the private sector’s contribution to the country’s economy. As part of his vision and representing constituents in some of the country’s remote parts, Aumane believes infrastructure development will be a key ingredient in Lesotho’s investment recipe. “We need to network the whole country with good roads, ensuring that the east not only meets the west but that it is also well connected to the north and the south. There is no reason why Mokhotlong is not directly connected to the southern districts or even with its neighbour, ThabaTseka. This is something we have to do and not just dream about,” Aumane suggested. There is still very strong and evidence donor support in the country, he said, citing among others a long list of Chinese
funded infrastructure projects in the pipeline for the country which include the proposed M900 million rebuilding of the Queen Elizabeth II Hospital, the 70MW Mafeteng solar project, the MpitiSekake road, the fire station in Maseru and many others. “Don’t forget the second MCA pact from the United States of America is also in the pipeline and, God willing, we should score even better next year on the MCC good governance barometer. There is also the EU with a number of programmes aimed at improving electricity coverage and protecting water sources as well as its distribution. Let’s also not forget the massive support the EU is giving to our civil society, an important intervention we cannot overlook. “These are the kinds of intervention that we need to take advantage of and make sure they
15 unclaimed bodies buried at Lepereng . . . as Maseru district warns burial space running out NTHAKO MAJORO MASERU - Fifteen corpses of unidentified persons were yesterday buried in a mass grave at Lepereng, Maseru which was attended by, among others, the deputy minister of Local Government and Chieftainship Kotiti Liholo, and the minister of Social Welfare ’Matebatso Doti. All the 15 bodies were male, 13 of which were adults while two were children under the age of four years. Only four among these 15 bodies were known (by names) while the rest were not. One of the four named bodies was a child. All the deceased were unclaimed bodies from the Lesotho Funeral Services (LFS), who were either police cases or were cases of families having
failed to take responsibility. A representative of the LFS, ’Mamahooana Chokobane, said the number of unknown dead bodies kept increasing in their mortuary. “They keep increasing every time. These ones who we are burying today are the unknown dead bodies who had been in our mortuary from 2016 and 2017,” Chokobane told Public Eye in a post-burial interview yesterday. Chokobane said this year alone, her company already has 18 unknown dead bodies whose families she said the undertaker was still trying to find. “We are following the normal procedure in a quest to find their families, working together with the police,” Chokobane said. She said their procedure was after three months without getting hold of the deceased’s
families they deem the corpses as “unknown”. Yesterday’s mass grave was said to contain a smaller number compared to the previous ones, with the highest number being 90 of those who were buried in 2014. Last year a total of 40 unknown dead bodies were buried at the same cemetery in Lepereng, where thereafter one of them was found to be police constable Mokalekale Khetheng, who later was exhumed. District Administrator for Maseru, Mapane Nthunya said his main concern was that the Lepereng cemetery was running out of burial space. “That is why I am appealing that next time they should be taken to other districts,” Nthunya said in an interview with Public Eye.
“This is because you would find that some of them are not Maseru residents. The example of what I am talking is Khetheng who was deceptively buried at Lepereng graveyard while he was from Mokhotlong, even though at the time he passed away he was a resident of Botha-Bothe.” Deputy minister of local government and chieftainship affairs, Kotiti Liholo, said the fact that all the dead bodies were male clearly meant that there was something wrong. “The fact that not even a single woman is among the 15 dead bodies is an indication that something is wrong with men,” Liholo said. “The challenge now is what we are going to do for this not to happen again in future.” Liholo said it may be because of the fact that there was a crisis of lack of jobs, that saw many men going from one place to
are fully implemented in order to boost investor confidence and, in the long-term build on strong macro-economic platforms for future economic stability,” said Aumane. In the short term, Aumane said a lot has to be transformed, especially in government spending. “Look, we come from a period when government secured items and services at very high mark-ups. That needs to change. We also have to prioritise our spending and our investment by putting more focus on high income projects,” he said. In addition, the development planning minister also believes the long-awaited job summit for Lesotho is more urgently needed now more than ever before because the government has long been saturated and needs help from the private sector.
another and even died far away from their families, hence why at the end of the day they may be affirmed unknown dead bodies. Liholo thanked Postbank for giving a helping hand by making sure that the dead bodies all had coffins and at least some kind of decent send-off. Postbank Chief Information Officer, Molise Ramaili, said as the bank for Basotho, they had to lend a helping hand because they regarded the dead bodies as children of Basotho. He further thanked Basotho for the continued support they were getting from them, saying it would not be possible if it was not because of their support. Detective Lance Seagent Ntšenki ’Nei of LMPS on the other hand said the main challenge they were faced with in their day to day work was to come across a dead body whose family they could not get hold of. He said in most cases most of the bodies are discovered already in bad shape or decomposing.
Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018 9
News
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Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018
News Feature
WFP’s ‘buy local’ scheme initiates smallholder farmers into business MORDEKAI MUSUNDIRE
M
ASERU – In a move set to improve small holder farmers enterprises in Lesotho, the World Food Programme (WFP) this year introduced a Local Purchase Initiative in procuring local food commodities to support the government’s school feeding programme. The government, supported by WFP, provides at least one nutritious and safe meal for 390 000 pupils in primary schools and early childhood centres, with preference for a home-grown approach where the priority is to source food locally whenever possible. So far, a total of 5,716 MT of maize meal and beans worth M25 million has been procured locally, thanks to this initiative spearheaded by WFP. Of the annual requirements of 10,530 MT of maize meal and 2,106 MT of pulses needed for the Lesotho’s National School Fe e d i n g Prog ra m m e, W F P procures 60 percent of both maize meal and pulses. A higher percentage of maize meal is procured locally but the local production of pulses is still low hence a significant quantity still comes from outside the country. The Local Purchase Initiative is a pilot project aligned to Sustainable Development Goal 2 which seeks to “end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.” At the same time, the ‘buy local’ programme speaks to Lesotho’s National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP) II aimed at making the private sector the driver of economic prosperity and development in Lesotho. Moreover, the country’s fiveyear development blueprint has pegged the country’s inclusive growth and employment creation on four pillars, one of them being agriculture and is seen as key to improving the livelihoods of the Basotho people. By providing SHFs with the much-needed market outlet for their produce, the local purchase initiative will catalyze the development of agriculture value chains and to boost productivity through commercialization of agriculture and potentially assist the Lesotho government to reduce its import bill at a time of economic austerity spawned by dwindling income streams “The overall goal is to source a higher percentage of food supplies for the school meals programme locally. Unlike in the regular procurement, WFP does not charge any fees to suppliers when buying locally, until such time when they are established and able to pay the bid and perfo r m a n c e b o n d s ,” W FP
states in a statement published in October this year. The Ministry of Education and Training, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, along with the Ministry of Small Business Development, Cooperatives and Marketing lead the selection of regions for implementation as well as choosing and recommending farmers’ organizations and small to medium scale traders to WFP for registration as suppliers. Fa r m e r s o rg a n i z a t i o n s interested in supplying food c o m m o d i t i e s t o W F P a re advised to contact their District Agricultural Officers for assessment and recommendation to WFP for registration. Before a farmers’ organization is taken on board, they are assessed against a set criterion that includes the way the farmers’ organisation is governed and the capacity to supply the required quantities. “ We d o n o t e n c o u ra ge individual farmers to come to WFP directly, but they should go though the government ministries that support them in various aspects, for recommendation to W F P fo r re g i s t ra t i o n ,” said WFP’s local Purchase Consultant, Peter Kimotho, in an interview with Public Eye this week. “We estimate that next year, we are likely to register 10 or more farmers organizations to increase procurement of local food,” he said. In line with WFP’s global target to procure 10% of food requirements from smallholder farmers, the Local Purchase seeks to source at least 20 percent of the food requirements from Local Small Holder farmers (SHFs) to boost local agricultural production.
Before a farmers’ organization is taken on board, they are assessed against a set criterion Kimotho told Public Eye that the initiative is a multi-pronged approach which will achieve several things simultaneously. Not only does the initiative assist in feeding school children to increase school attendance and address challenges like stunting, it is also empowering smallholder farmers to expand their farming enterprises to improve their livelihoods and boost the local economy “Unlike when WFP buys food commodities from outside the country, the Local Purchase puts money in the farmers pockets and boosts the local economy,” he said. He further explained that although they have developed pro-smallholder procurement practices that are different from the regular procurement, they clearly explain to the smallholder farmers what they need to know to run a proper business and be able to supply quality products. “ We m a tc h p r i c e s w i t h
the wholesale market prices, factoring in some value addition costs. When the farmers get fair prices for their produce, they are motivated to invest in inputs and increase the area under cultivation which ultimately increases the capacity of the farmers to produce food surpluses for sale to improve their livelihoods,” he added. SHFs face teething challenges that include; low production volumes, poor quality produce, poor on-farm storage capacity, marketing challenges, long distance from profitable markets, access to capital, among others. This cries out for partnership to develop their capacity to supply food commodities to the National Schools Feeding programme and other formal markets. WFP brings in the needed expertise in pro-smallholder procurement practices, quality standards, market information
syste m s , a n d p o st - h a rve st handling and storage. “We advise the farmers that this initiative is a purely business venture that offers them a large stable market demand, and this provides a great opportunity for them increase production volumes and reap the benefits,” he said. Mr Kimotho said that with the advice from government, WFP had so far piloted the local purchase initiative in the districts of Butha Buthe, Berea and Leribe where there is surplus production of food commodities, and roll-out the initiative has begun in Maseru District. “ We wa n t s m a l l h o l d e r farmers’ organizations to develop and transform into marketing organizations that can aggregate q u a l i ty p ro d u c e to a tt ra c t buyers,’’ he said. The WFP expert cited Ta n za n i a , Ke nya , Za m b i a , Uganda, Ethiopia and Rwanda as some of the countries where empowerment of smallholder farmers has yielded positive results under similar initiatives. Banks are not normally keen on capitalising smallholder farmers because of various challenges that include access to markets. However, with the Local Purchase Initiative, banks will eventually find it attractive to invest in smallholder farmers growth by providing financial services to them. “Banks in other countries eventually found it attractive to do business with the smallholder farmers and there are instances where farmers were able to increase productivity threefold and expanded the area under production by leasing extra farmland to meet the market demand. “I can see this happening to Lesotho farmers too because already, some have indicated that they will consider growing beans commercially,” Kimotho disclosed. One woman, who cannot be identified at this stage, who is a smallholder farmer growing beans in Leribe District bears testimony to the potential of the Local Purchase Initiative. Before WFP rolled out the initiative, she never saw any need to produce beans in bulk but after selling some of her produce through the Local Purchase Initiative, she had this to say: “I used to sell my beans in small quantities and was paid in bits, which could not help to make any tangible investments on my farm. “However, in the year 2017, I sold a total of 1.8MT of my beans to the national schools feeding programme through WFP, and I was paid all the money at once. “I used the lumpsum payment to top-up my savings and I bought a farm tractor to help me expand my farming business. Now I will be able to expand the area under cultivation and produce more to increase my family income.”
Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018 11
Adverts News KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (Wool and Mohair Promotion Invitation for Bids (IFB) Contract name: PROPOSED NEW SHEARING SHEDS AT LITSOETSE, SEMENA AND HA SOAI
TO OUR VALUED CLIENTS! As the year ends, we think about all we are grateful for. Our relationship with you is one thing we treasure. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. We wish you a merry Christmas and success in the New Year!
1. The Government of Lesotho has received a loan from the OPEC Funding for International Development (OFID) towards the cost of Wool and Mohair Promotion Project and intends to apply part of the funds to cover eligible payments under the Contracts for: Proposed New Shearing Sheds at Litsoetse, Semena and Ha Soai (W5/C113/2018/2019) 2. The Wool and Mohair Promotion Project (WAMPP) through the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food security now invites sealed bids from interested and qualified bidders for the implementation of abovementioned civil works under the Contract Proposed New Shearing Sheds at Litsoetse, Semena and Ha Soai • Lot 1 – Litsoetse • Lot 2 – Semena • Lot 3 – Ha Soai Duration of Works: Three Months 3. Interested eligible Bidders may obtain detailed information, collect and inspect the Bidding Documents by the address mentioned below, from Monday to Friday 9:00 – 16:00: Wool and Mohair Promotion Project Department of Livestock Services Old Airport Road , Moshoeshoe II P.O.BOX 24 MASERU LESOTHO Phone #: +26652519400; E-mail: wamppprocurement@gmail.com 4. Interested Bidders may obtain the Bidding Documents in English by the Address mentioned below upon payment of a non-refundable fee of M500.00: The method of payment will be cash only There shall be a site inspection on the 10th and 11th JANUARY 2019 . Meeting point will be at Thaba Tseka District Agricultural Officer (DAO) office at 09:00 hrs Lesotho time. 5. Qualification requirements include: a/ Average annual financial amount of construction works performed for the last three years for each of the respective Lots is:
M 2,000,000.00 b/ Experience as prime contractor in the construction of at least 2 works of a nature, size and complexity equivalent to the Works for each of the respective Lot over the period of 5 years; c/ Liquid assets and/or credit facilities net of other contractual commitments of no less than: M 1,000,000.00 per lot d/ Valid Traders License and Tax Clearance certified at source. 6. Bids must be delivered to the address below at or before 22nd January 2019 at 13:45:00 Lesotho time. Electronic bidding shall not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected and returned to the Bidders unopened. Bids will be opened physically in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend in person at the address below at 22nd January 2019 at 14:00 Lesotho time. 7. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures method set out in IFAD’Project Procurement Guidelines and Handbook – September 2010. Bidding is open to all bidders from Eligible Source Countries as defined in the Bidding Documents. 8. All bids shall be accompanied by a separate Bid Security of: M 20,000.00 for each Lot. 9. The address for Payment of Bidding Document is MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE & FOOD SECURITY HEADQUATERS, CROPS ACCOUNTS OFFICE 80 CONSTITUTION ROAD MASERU 100 LESOTHO TELEPHONE: +26652519400 EMAIL: wamppprocurement@gmail.com. 10. The address for submission of bids is SECRETARY, TENDER BOX, NEXT TO BOARDROOM MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY 80 CONSTITUTION ROAD P.O.BOX 24 MASERU 100 LESOTHO Phone #: +26652519400;
Public Eye Management and staff wish their valued clients a Merry Xmas and a Prosperous New Year. Enjoy our 50% off special rates for this festive season.
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Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018
Opinion News
‘Smart Boy’ Mokhothu is the best thing for DC
. . . of succession planning and youthful leaders DR FAKO JOHNSON LIKOTHI In management lexicon, succession planning considers the growth and future direction of the enterprise. This means that a chief executive must be understudied by his immediate subordinate who will take over immediately as she or he leaves office. This succession planning has been a key factor in politics as well and a few examples will suffice here. In the United States there is a president and his running mate such as; John Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson, to Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton and Al Gore, the list is long. In Britain the youthful Tony Blair was deputised by Gordon Brown which system has provided continuity and certainty. The rationale
here is for the deputy to understudy his leader even if there was going to be a contest later. Africans, unlike Europeans, more often than not have a challenge with succession planning. For instance, the former Libyan leader Colonel Muammar al-Gaddafi appointed his own successor whom he used to mistreat and whose hair he used to shave off when he was in a bad mood. Most African leaders choose their successors not for them to understudy them but as a manipulative strategy to entrench themselves in power. In fact, they tend to elect an underperforming person who cannot pose a threat to their leadership. The controversy over the deputy leadership position has a long history on this continent. In Malawi, President Bakili Muluzi after failing to extend his term of office anointed the late President Bingu wa Mutarika who
LESOTHO FLOUR MILLS LTD. PRIVATE BAG A62 . MASERU 100. LESOTHO
subsequently assumed the presidency and ended up shunning his predecessor. Similarly, President Mutarika appointed a woman Vice President Joyce Banda who he banished from office but she assumed leadership after Mutarika’s sudden death. In Botswana, President General Kgama Ian Kgama, wanted to appoint his friend but was defeated by voters in Joaneng constituency who voted for an opposition candidate instead. He had to appoint the current President Moekwetsi Masisi through the proper succession structures of the party. In South Africa the fight between Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma was the same together with Zuma and Motlanthe to Zuma and Ramaphosa. The current scenario has repeated itself between Prime Minister Thabane and the late Machakela who was assassinated by unknown people to Khasu who was finally shown the door and now the Acting Deputy Maliehe who is seen as less troublesome but is rumoured to
TELEPHONE: (+266) – 22 215 200 FAX: (+266) – 22 310 037 22 316 529
TELEX: 4329 LO E-Mail: lesflour@lesoff.co.za
Publishing of Lesotho Flour Mills Ltd Annual Financial Results – 2017 It is with pleasure that the management of Lesotho Flour Mills Ltd publish the Annual Financial Results for 2017. The Company reported an After Tax Profit of M33,452,939 and M25,955,677 for 2016 which shows an increase of 14.8% from the prior year. The key contributing factor was the Government Food Subsidy Program assisting in the Maize volumes. Flour sales were below prior year volumes and impacted by the decrease of the South African Wheat levy for imported raw materials of which Lesotho is exempt from. Both of these acted as an entry barrier for South African competitors into Lesotho. Feed sales were disappointing, being negatively impacted by region-wide issues in the poultry industry; duty free chicken flooding South Africa and, more damaging, an outbreak of bird flu wiping out poultry stocks and the industry as a whole. This had a severe impact on the Lesotho poultry industry as it was not able to secure day-old-chick and point of lay poultry stocks. Recovery in both these sectors is only expected in the 2018 financial year. During the 2017 financial year the Company also contributed M597,939 ( M519,113) to the Agricultural reserve in support of agriculture development in Lesotho along with the Ministry of Agriculture. The Company continues in its efforts to support a variety of charitable organisations through-out the country; particularly those associated with Education and under-privileged children; as an example, new computer equipment was donated to AMITOF Mafeteng during December 2017. The future of the Milling Industry in Lesotho is heavily dependent on the support of the Lesotho Government with regards to protection of local industry and products. Lesotho Flour Mills supports the “Buy Lesotho” initiative through procuring White and Yellow Maize from farmers through-out the country and all of our brands are well known in Lesotho – Easy Bake, Chai Super Maize Meal, Makhulo Farm Feed and Lesotho Sugar Packers. Lesotho Flour Mills is also proud to supply maize meal through the World Food Program to the School Feeding program.
_______________________ Mr. David Rantekoa Chairman of the Board
_____________________ Mr. Ron Mills Managing Director
INCORPORATING (LESOTHO MAIZE MILLS/LESOTHO FLOUR MILLLS/LESOTHO SUGAR PACKERS/LESOTHO FARM FEEDSA.)
be likely shown the door, come the next party elective conference. It would appear that Democratic Congress (DC) is introducing a better model of succession, even though the leadership will be contested. The importance of Mathibeli Mokhothu’s election, brought live to the succession debate into Lesotho politics. The current SADC meetings in Lesotho about national reforms attended by Dr Mosisili, the SADC facilitator and other leaders, Mokhothu or rather, “Namane e Ts’ehla” has also been in attendance and even addressed some of these meetings. His close proximity indicated clearly that Mokhothu was understudying his leader like the European leaders above. It must be clear that succession in a democracy does not mean no contestation at the end. Party conferences are the ones which make the last decision whether to ratify or not to elect the current deputy. Conversely, the youthful Mokhothu appeared to have excelled in his deputy leadership position. This is the issue to be discussed below. UNDP Vision on Youth The election of Mokhothu as the DC deputy leader appears to resonate very well with the vision of the United Nations. For instance, UNDP in its 2003 report, sees the engagement of young people today as something that will determine the prospects for sustainable development and peace. Young people, who represent the majority of the voting population in most developing countries, are today visibly contributing as political actors, innovators, entrepreneurs and peacebuilders. The United Nations therefore encourages nations to elect youthful leaders to positions of responsibility in order to address challenges faced by the youth. The document argues that today the youth face disproportionate social, economic and political barriers which prevent them from unleashing their full potential. Mokhothu has been very vocal in expressing the above sentiments in most of his speeches. Why Mokhothu is the best thing for DC The election of the youthful Honourable Mokhothu MP in January 2017 as a deputy leader of DC was not an accident, but a strategic move by one of the most experienced political parties in Lesotho politics. This was a groundbreaking move in Lesotho’s political landscape motivated by demographics patterns. His election was in line with the UNDP 2030 Agenda which promotes: inclusive youth participation in effective and democratic governance; economic empowerment of youth and; strengthened youth engagement in building resilience in their communities; and inclusion of youth in the future development agenda. Central to the 28th African Union Summit that took place in Ethiopia in January 2017 and to the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum, has always been the issue of encouraging young leaders in leadership positions and how to harness the power of current youthful population? In 2015, there were 226 million youth aged between 15 and 24 years in Africa (19 percent of the global youth population). By 2030, that number will increase by 42 percent and is expected to double by 2055. For most Electoral Commissions in Africa and elsewhere facing this youth bulge, the issue has always been how to attract the born-free population to vote? They saw youthful political leadership as something that can propel the youth to vote more than the conventional Old Guard leadership. So, investing in youth today is key to Africa’s development tomorrow. It was for this reason that DC elected a young man to its leadership. It is also clear that, since the bulk of the voting population today is young the days of electing old men are over. The youth in Lesotho have the opportunity to elect one of their own who fully understands and appreciates their plight and economic woes of unemployment and health.
To be continued in next issue
Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018 13
News
Leaders Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018
Editorial Comment
A peak at the good and the bad in 2018 It’s that time of the year when we need to reflect on the year-long haul of our country’s events. We may have to agree or disagree that 2018 has been a very eventful for Lesotho, with many of the set goals at the beginning of the year receiving much damper accolades than we may have anticipated. To be honest with ourselves there is very little we have achieved this year though a number of opportunities did present themselves for the country to register some good progress. Many of our setbacks were of our own making and we cannot hide from the fact that too much energy was spent on setting the wheel in motion for the reforms processes to kick-start. Yes! So much of the frustrations - the tip-toes and back and forth dance-like moves - that never seem to be coming to an end. However, we must also give ourselves as a nation a big high-five for having in the end succeeded to hold the leaders forum and the subsequent dialogue sessions that will lead to the national processes at grassroots level. While the reforms overshadowed almost any other activity on the national activity plan, we should pay due cognisance to the numerous strides made especially in the legislative chambers whether in the enactment of new laws or other oversight work from that arm of government. The eventful happenings in the Public Accounts Committee with an open media view and broadcast were some of the memorable highlights of the year, giving the Basotho people a new hope in the unending fight against corruption in the public sector. Basotho have already suggested an alternative way forward having felt that the naming and shaming is not enough and government has to find, as urgently as possible, direct means of prosecution from Parliament in order to avoid delayed justice. On the other hand, some very good laws that will enhance the lives of Basotho have been passed. These include the Dual Citizenship law, the Wool and Mohair Marketing regulations (though these only sailed through after a tug of war that was threatening the very existence of this industry) as well as others meant to advance the country from its current status to its deserved low to middle income economy status. Also looking back, we started 2018 against the background of a depressingly poor human rights record, lack of and disrespect of the rule of law and shaken pillars of the Kingdom’s peace. While we may have experienced a largely quiet 2018, there has however been a very slow implementation of some of the recommended remedies, especially on the route of justice, which has left a huge gap in restoring the nation’s confidence in that sector. Some justification and even escapism may point at all failures to the delayed reforms, but what we should accept as the naked truth is that in some instances, the system itself was put to fail because of selfish political interests rather than the need to reform our institutions. It is sad that the courts of law will continue to operate under a huge pressure of backlogs on the back of rapidly diminishing public confidence. Law enforcement agencies will neither be spared the crack of the whip of public opinion in this regard – brutality and unnecessary use of force in public engagements, failure to process cases for prosecution and the apparent refusal to be wined against political clouding and influence. The list of the good and the bad in 2018 cannot be reflected in one short piece, but what would be more important for this country’s political leadership is to shift gears for the years ahead and find every reason to work towards programmes that will save Lesotho from the looming crises - politically, economically and socially.
Public Eye
EDITORIAL: editor@publiceyenews.com
Trump finally endorses a ‘New Africa Strategy’ Frank Talk JOHN J STREMLAU US President Donald Trump has finally approved a “New Africa Strategy”. His national security adviser, John Bolton, described the contents on 13 December at the conservative Heritage Foundation in Washington. He began positively, declaring that: lasting stability, prosperity, independence and security on the African continent are in the national security interest of the United States. But he then went on to ignore Africa’s own efforts to address these broad challenges, including its multilateral initiatives. Instead, Bolton’s announcement was replete with rhetoric reminiscent of the Cold War. The new strategy makes one thing clear: what really matters to Trump is not Africa but containing and countering China. The reaction from an African perspective is likely be bemusement rather than surprise. Trump has shown little interest or empathy towards Africa. And much enmity toward China. His Africa strategy ignores two decades of complex - but generally positive - reactions across sub-Saharan Africa to China becoming the region’s biggest trading partner and a major source of aid and investment. Previous US administrations generally welcomed Chinese engagement in Africa. Bolton, however, alleged that: China uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing’s wishes and demands. But does it need to be this way? I would argue not. Africa offers China and America an opportunity to demonstrate to the world - and to each other - that their competition can be constructive with Africa playing a moderating influence by brokering an agreed trilateral agenda. We need to explore ways to advance cooperation between Africa, China and the US as a confidence building ADVERTISING: marketing@publiceyenews.com
measure in relations between the US and China. This would obviously need to be designed for the primary benefit of African partners. Collaborative projects that involve the US and China, with Africa in the forefront, have been the focus of a Carter Centre project since 2014. The centre’s many successful programmes in Africa, especially public health, have generated high-level trilateral policy interest. Since the Trump administration took over, these conversations have excluded his senior advisors. Nevertheless, work has continued. This has included recent developments which suggest headway is being made. In early December the South African Institute of International Affairs hosted the troika that leads this project. The troika was represented by Seyoum Mesfin, Ethiopia’s former and longest-serving foreign minister, an ambassador to China, and regional mediator in Sudan; Zhong Jianhua, formerly China’s Special Representative on African affairs and to the Sudan conflicts; and Donald Booth, a former US ambassador to Liberia, Zambia, Ethiopia and special envoy to Sudan/South Sudan. Three dozen African, Chinese and US scholars as well as policy experts contributed their analyses of previous and possible future areas for trilateral cooperation. They drew on some recent examples. These included efforts to combat piracy off the Horn of Africa and Gulf of Guinea as well as jointly developing a university campus in Liberia. Other projects have involved coordinated mediation between Sudan and South Sudan and mutually reinforcing actions to deal with the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. Several priority areas for future tri-lateral cooperation were identified. One was the recently constructed headquarters for the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention in Addis Ababa. Funded by China, the next priority for trilateral cooperation is to ensure the centre is equipped to provide better early warning and response to threats like Ebola. Another priority area is expanding economic aid, trade and investment. This could be done through trilateral projects funded under China’s “Belt and Road” initiative and the US Build Act. DISTRIBUTION: distribution@ plogistics.co.ls
Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018 15
Leaders Business News
Unpacking current cabinet reshuffle Guest Column
“One of the ministers only has a tractor driver’s license to his name . . .”
DR FAKO LIKOTI
I
n his recent book, “Why Africa is Poor” Greg Mills argues that the main reason the continent is poor is because African leaders have made that choice. Most African leaders are not serious when reshuffling their governments. The unfortunate thing is that cabinet appointments are used to poach opposition Members of Parliament (MP) to boost ruling parties’ majorities to the detriment of other MPs or for rewards to friends and relatives. This practice stif les national developments. Rather than appointing people with the requisite expertise, integrity, credibility and sound academic backgrounds, African leaders appoint people with very low educational backgrounds. T h i s pa p e r w i l l u n rave l the current reshuffle of Prime Minister (PM) Thabane on the 17th December 2018. It must be clear from the onset that the PM is a hiring and firing chief. He has constitutional powers to reshuffle ministers who fail to perform to acceptable standards, and promote those who are credible and have requisite qualif ication and expertise to perform the task of being ministers of the Crown. The expectation is that these ministers will drive public policy and, most importantly, develop Lesotho’s economy. The appointed ministers should be conversant with the complicated task of managing ministries. The PM must make every effort in appointing men and women of substance who have what it takes to be cabinet ministers. In fact, the former British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher puts it more clearly: “You can’t enjoy the fruits of effort without first making an effort”. Appointment of Honourable S e m a n o S e ka t l e f ro m t h e Opposition Benches The above appointment of the Honourable Semano Sekatle came as a major surprise to most people. Firstly, he was a serving secretary general of the main opposition Democratic Congress (DC). Secondly, the appointment of a member of the opposition, while permissible under Westminster system, has to be done in consultation with the Leader of the Opposition. It has since emerged that there was no such consultation. In countries like South Africa, the Constitution allows for the President of that country to appoint one member of the opposition such as Mr Mangena under President Mbeki. The
Honourable Litšoane Litšoane
current Lesotho Constitution does not have such a clause. The question is why did the PM appoint Sekatle instead of an MP from his own party? Before June 3 2017 elections, the current Prime Minister, then in opposition, was at pains to portray the then former government as corrupt. R e c e n t l y, h i s m i n i s t e r of finance after passing two national budgets claimed that the government was broke. He cited the previous government where Semano Sekatle was a minister of development planning as the source of this problem. Minister Moekesti Majoro even went further to state that the vehicle company, BIDVEST, that was engaged by the former government, was responsible for the current poor state of government finances. The irony is that two budgets were passed and not a word was mentioned about this project. If, indeed, the previous Mosisili-led government was corrupt to the core, why then appoint one of its allegedly corrupt ministers if there is any substance in the PM claim? PM Thabane appears to be targetting DC MPs with eagle eyes, yet he has been casting aspersions of corruption against them without any proof. Should we then conclude that he was pulling wool over our eyes by claiming that the previous government was corrupt yet he knows, as his action attest, that this is not the case? If not why appoint Sekatle who, according to the PM’s past allegations, has corruption credentials? Under our Westminster and electoral systems, an MP is free to cross the floor. In other words, floor-crossing is allowed. Let’s all remember, an MP, is a representative, a delegate and a party candidate. He is all four of these concepts, but the space is not sufficient to discuss them fully here, suffice to say that a representative does
Honourable Semano Sekatle
Honourable Mokherane Tsatsanyane
not necessarily act exactly as his or her principals would; in some situations the representative may drive a harder bargain than the principal would feel able to do, on matters of principle and public policy, while in others the representative may be restrained by professional etiquette and conventions. The principle of floor-crossing, therefore, derives from this analogy, that is, public policy and principle. These concepts form part of successful representation. In a recent interview, Sekatle was very categorical, “he only joined ABC after being assured that he was going to be given a ministerial position”. It is clear that the only motivation or purpose for Sekatle to abandon DC was not based on principle, let alone on public policy, but on self-interest and self-enrichment. He left DC because he wanted to become a minister and DC was in opposition and could not grant him this wish. The fact that he joined ABC in order to develop his constituency is also fallacious s i n c e pa rl i a m e n t a l l o ca te s resources to ministers not to
develop their constituencies, but the country as a whole. He cannot make a claim that he is now going to develop his area, whereas government has its own programmes that focus to the whole country and the nation as a whole, not only his particular constituency. It is most unfortunate that Sekatle, who has a long history as a cabinet minister is unaware of proper governance systems; we expect better from him. Appointment and promotion of other ministers Looking at some of the newly appointed and promoted ministers, education comes to mind. Education is development and development is education. Former Prime Minister Pakalitha Mosisili once observed that, if he could be asked to name just three things that would spur Lesotho’s development, he could choose in equal succession “Education, Education and Education”. It is lack of educated political leadership that has brought immense challenges to the Lesotho polity to the extent that some even think they are entitled to some positions even when their
education is wanting. Education for ministers has been a major issue since independence. In 1965, during Lesotho’s first parliament, the then Leader of Opposition, Dr Ntsu Mokhehle, while addressing parliament said: “I look at the Minister of Education, Minister of Justice, Minister of Finance, and I see a Parliament composed by primary school kids”. The current government is manned by ministers who did not even complete secondary school in an environment where there is free education. One of the ministers’ highest qualification is a tractor driver’s license while others have Form “B”, “D” and even lower. This takes place in a context where Lesotho is faced with over 10,000 or more unemployed young graduates, about 36.6 percent unemployment, and a poverty level just below 50 percent. Maybe the PM would kindly explain to the nation why he keeps appointing ministers with embarrassingly low academic backgrounds. Conclusion The current reshuff ling of cabinet is not only an antithesis to development but is a complete betrayal to Lesotho democratic advancement. It’s a reflection of a debased political system that flourishes on deceiving people and labeling o t h e rs w i t h o u t fa c ts . Yo u cannot accuse people of corrupt practices and then lure them with ministerial positions. Ministers must be appointed on merit. This makes it more imperative to have educated people deployed properly. This national pride where Lesotho ranks high on the continent educationally, must be reflected not only in public offices but throughout the whole economy. The current situation where most uneducated people are occupying ministerial offices must be discontinued.
16
Public Eye Friday December 21, 2018
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Friday December 21, 2018
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CENTRAL BANK OF LESOTHO
Central Bank of Lesotho
List of Licensed Financial Institutions
The Central Bank of Lesotho hereby notifies members of the public that the under-mentioned financial institutions are duly licensed to operate in Lesotho in terms of the Financial Institutions Act of 2012, the Insurance Act of 2014 and Collective Investment Schemes Regulations of 2001. The list includes approved banks, insurance companies, insurance brokers, Micro Finance, Credit Bureau, Foreign Exchange and collective investment schemes. Members of the public who wish to check the list of approved money lenders in Lesotho can call the Central Bank of Lesotho on the following numbers; (+266) 22232039. Members of the public will be kept informed about approved financial institutions on a quarterly basis in order to enable them to avoid investing in un-authorized financial institutions.
Career Opportunity
Principal Economist - Studies Ref: PRINECON (5 years fixed term contract)
LIST OF LICENSED COMMERCIAL BANKS AND FOREX AGENCIES NAME Standard Lesotho Bank Nedbank Lesotho First National Bank Lesotho Lesotho Postbank
CONTACT Mr Mpho Vumbukani Mr Papa Sekyiamah a.i Mr Bradwin Roper Mr Molefi Leqhaoe
PHYSICAL& POSTAL ADDRESS Head Office, Kingsway Street, P.O. Box 1053,Maseru 100 Head Office, Kingsway Street, P.O. Box 1001, Maseru 100 Head Office, Kingsway Street, P.O. Box 11902, Maseru 100 Mafike House Building, Kingsway Road,, P/B A121,Maseru 100
TELEPHONE (+266) 22315737 (+266) 22312696 (+266) 22247100 (+266) 22317842
LIST OF LICENSED INSURANCE COMPANIES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
INSTITUTION
PRINCIPAL OFFICER
REGISTERED OFFICE ADDRESS
CONTACT
Lesotho National Life Assurance Limited Life Insurance Alliance Insurance Company Limited Life & General Insurance Metropolitan Lesotho Limited Life Insurance Zenith Horizon Insurance Company Limited General Insurance Lesotho National General Insurance Company Limited General Insurance
Mr. Ralitapole J. Letsoela Managing Director Mr. Angus Yeats Chief Executive Officer Mr. Nkau Matete Managing Director Ms Smangela Molumeli Chief Executive Officer Mr. Ralitapole J. Letsoela, Managing Director
LNGIC House , Constitution Road Maseru , Lesotho 100 Alliance House, 4 Bowker Road Maseru , Lesotho 100 Metropolitan Building, Kingsway Road Maseru , Lesotho 100 2nd Floor Christie House , Open Road Maseru, Lesotho, P.O. Box 0293 Maseru West 105 LNGIC House Constitution Road, Maseru, Lesotho
(+266) 22314144
NBC Lesotho Insurance Company Limited Life Insurance Specialized Insurance Company Limited General Insurance Liberty Life Lesotho Limited Life Insurance Transafrica Life Insurance Company Limited
Mr. Godfrey Vatsha Managing Director Mr. Mokhápheka Lazaro Chief Executive Officer Mr. Makhakhe Maliehe Managing Director Mr. Mathy Johannes Van Den Berg - Director
4 Bowker Road, Ground floor, Pension Fund House
(+266) 22320633
Shop 51 Maseru Mall Maseru 100 Lesotho
(+266)22320837/8
P.O. Box 115 Maseru, Maseru Mall unit 39 Maseru Lesotho Shop 26, Race Course Mall Maseru Mall Ha Thetsane
(+ 266)22212719/735
(+266) 22312357 (+266) 22222300 (+266) 50920022/28322625 (+266) 22313031
LIST OF LICENSED INSURANCE BROKERS
31. Urban Life Insurance Brokers
34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41.
Principal Officer
3.
4.
1. 2. 3.
MOTS Insurance Brokers Elarem Insurance Brokers Insurance Hub Brokers
Ms. Montseng Phakoana Mr. Lenka Malefane Mr. Thato Lerata
(+266) 22327940/1 , (+266) 58854518 Husteds Building, 1st Floor, Room 13 , Maseru 100 (+266) 22324607 Carlton Centre, 2nd Floor, Room 204, Kingsway Road, Maseru 100 (+266) 57484014, (+266) 59108387 Maseru Avani, 2nd Floor, Unit 631
4.
Clientcare Risk Consultants
Mrs. Popi Kaiser
(+266) 22321768, (+266) 28325432
Premium House, 224 Kingsway Road, Opposite American Embassy, Maseru 100
6.
5. 6.
BMM Insurance Brokers TIB Insurance Brokers
Mrs. M. Khalema Mr. Garth Dixie
(+266) 22327940/1, (+266) 58854518 (+266) 22316556
Maseru Book Centre, Kingsway Road, Maseru 100 Dolphin House, 23 Motsoene Road, Industrial Area, Maseru 100
7.
7.
Insurecare Insurance Brokers
Mr. M. Mohasi
(+266) 22321973, (+266) 22310669
LNDC Office Block D, Kingsway Road, Maseru 100
8. 9.
Exclusive Risk Solutions DBM Insurance Brokers
Mr. Khotso Mochesane Ms. Doreen Brown-Masilo
(+266) 22322553 (+266) 22311704
House No. 4-D, Pioneer Road, Happy Villa, P.O. Box 11371, Maseru 100 Block B, LNDC Development House, Kingsway Road, Maseru 100
10. Elite Insurance Brokers
Ms. Ilza Venter
(+266) 57430605
Block B, LNDC Development House, Level 3 Room 310, Maseru 100
11. Thari Mutuals (Pty) Ltd
Mr. Motjope Mokhathi
(+266) 56714656
Nala House , 4 Bowker Road, Maseru West 105
12. Brokersure Insurance Brokers
Ms. Marorisang Lepheane
(+266) 58842863
Lithoteng Ha Pita, Maseru 100
13. Risk Managers
Mr. Paseka Moletsane
(+266) 22321898
Sechaba House, 4 Bowker Road, Maseru 100
14. Thaba Bosiu Insurance Brokers
Mrs. M. Seturumane
(+266) 62853340
1st Floor Options Building, Pioneer Road, Maseru 100
15. Thamotha Insurance Brokers
Mrs. Matokelo Thamae
(+266) 58789268
Mapetla House, Kingsway Road, Maseru 100
(+266) 57674403
CCL Building, Maseru 100
Ms. Mamohapi Samuel Ms. Manthatisi Pata
19. Silverbridge Insurance Brokers
Ms. Tebello Motuba
(+266) 62454957, (+266) 62454957
Lakeside Hotel Premises, Maseru 100
20. Assurance Insurance Brokers
Mrs. Malebohang Lehana
(+266) 58577728
1st Floor , Thola-Tu Complex, Maseru
21. MH Insurance Brokers
Mrs. Mamosa Molapo
(+266) 22400113, (+266) 58127918
Lisemeng 1, Opposite Shoprite, Hlotse, Leribe
22. Mokhele Insurance Brokers
Mr. Malonga Mokhele
(+266) 58753977
Oblate House, P.O. Box 12695, Maseru
23. Explicit Brokers
Ms. Malineo ‘Monahali
(+266) 58856438, (+266) 62856438
Thula Tu Complex, Maseru
24. Green Point Insurance Brokers 25. Bright Point Insurance Brokers (Pty) Ltd 26. CS Insurance Brokers 27. Setha Insurance Brokers
Mr. Tsola Malebanye Ms. Matumane Semoli Principal Officer Mr. Sebolai
(+266) 58997215, (+266) 63429387
Qoaling Ha Seoli , P.O. Box 10648, Maseru
(+266) 58929308, (+266) 56344483
Ha Lekhobanyane, Pela Lehae la Maqheku, Mazenod
+266 (+266) 22701203/ 63074712
Maseru Mall P.O. Box 112, Mafeteng 900 Mathabiso Tlelai Centre, Room 14, Cathedral Area Maseru 100 Options Buildings Kingsway
29. Mosala Insurance Brokers 30. Minet Lesotho
Mapotsane Matsoso Principal Officer Mr. Mashape Mosala Principal Officer Mr. John Mawere
(+266) 22314807 (+266) 62997175 (+266) 22313540, (+266) 22310033
MINET House, 4 Bowker Road, Maseru
This list is also available on the central bank of Lesotho website: www.centralbank.org.ls
Ms. Pontso Matumelo Kou (+266) 63124604 Tradorette Building, Top Floor, Room 20, Kingsway Road, Maseru 100 Principal Officer The Principal Economist - Studies is responsible for conducting research and providing policy advice on Explicit Brokers Ms. Malineo ‘Monahali (+266) 58856438, (+266) 62856438 Thula Tu Complex, Maseru the workKoro of the Bank. +266 62157126 Corner Stone issue pertinent toMr. Bokang Girls Guites, opposite Lesotho Tennis Court Classic Legend Ms Letsie +26658450771 Husteds Building Thathy Brokers Area of Responsibilities: Mr. Thathasela +26658719877 Bedco Building , Mohales Hoek Leseling Brokers Ms. Mapaseka +26658869333 Center Building To conduct economic research that provide empirical basis for the work ofCalton the Bank. Matromaq Brokers Mr. Maqeba +26658725293 Tsalitlama, Mafeteng Pula Brokers Mr Thabane +266 63007462 P.O .Box 130 , Maseru 100 Candidate will have to: Khotso Brokers +266 58866191 Maseru Mall
• Conduct economic research on issues that relate the functions of the Bank. Mr Nqetho +26653167924/63429993 LNDC block B • Write research reports for a range of possible outlets including the Bank’s working paper series and ............academic journals. LIST OF STOCK BROKERS/ADVISORS LICENSED BY THE CENTRAL BANK OF LESOTHO • Make presentations of research findings to internal and external audiences. NAME CONTACT LICENSE ADDRESS • Communicate policy points of research findings to the policy makers and to the wider public policy 1. Motswedi Securities (Lesotho) (Pty) Ltd Mr. Martin Makgatlhe Broker Bishop’s Place, Unit 2, Block B, 28 Tonakholo Road ............community. Chief Executive Officer Dealer P.O. Box 15425, Maseru 100 • Participates in the formulation of the Bank’s research programme. Advisor • (Pty)Participate in various domestic and international seminars/conferences. 2. Katleho Securities Ltd Mr. Leonard Nyambuya Broker Plot Number 12292-972,
REGISTERED OFFICE ADDRESS
18. Equiways Insurance Brokers
3rd Floor, LNDC Office Block, Kingsway Road, Maseru 100
42. Mokoma
CONTACT
17. P & L Insurance Brokers
(+266) 58853270, (+266) 63248322
33. Thari ea Tsepe Insurance Brokers
PRINCIPAL OFFICER
16. Kepler Insurance Brokers (Pty) Ltd Mr. Francois Cronje
Ms. Mamokete Mokete
cer suitably qualified Lesotho Nationals to fill the following position at the Applications are Principal invitedOffi from Central Bank of Lesotho. AllMonyaka interested persons are encouraged to submit their applications on or before Ms. Masenate 32. T&S Insurance Brokers (+266) 63079850, (+266) 56327118 Oriental Centre, Hospital Area, Mafeteng Principal Offiaddress cer 7th December 2018 to the at the bottom of the advertisement.
INSTITUTION
28. Mahlaseli Insurance Brokers
17
5.
Dealer Mabelebele Street, Katlehong, Advisor Maseru Lesotho Candidates applying for this role require the following behavioural competencies: Standard Lesotho Bank Limited Mr. Khotso Moji Broker Head Office • Avid reader. Principal Officer Dealer Bank Building Advisor Kingsway Street • Inquisitive and critical thinker. PKF Lesotho (Pty) Ltd Mr. Sunday Adache Broker 160 Constitution Road, • Prolific writer. Principal Officer Dealer Ecumenical Centre • Persevering and life-long learner. Advisor Private Bag A296, Maseru 0100 NALA Capital Advisors (Pty) Ltd Mr. J. R. Elias Advisor No. 1 Puma House, Chief Executive Offi cer 12 United Nations All candidates wishing to apply should have the above stated behavioural competences andRoad, the following Maseru 100 qualifications and experience to be considered at least: Cadiant Partners Consultants And Actuaries Lesotho (Pty) Ltd Mr Ts’epo Letsoela Advisor 10 Molepe Str, Hillsview • Minimum requirement is a Master’s PublicDegree Officer in Economics. P.O. Box 1120, Maseru, Lesotho beMawere an added advantage. Minet Lesotho•(Pty) Ltd A PhD in Economics or Finance will Mr. J. Advisor MINET House, 4 Bowker Road Chief Executive Officer Maseru • Extensive research experience evidenced by scientific publications.
•
TELEPHONE (+266) 22317578 (+266) 27002418 (+266) 53230700 (+266) 22325694 (+266) 68235699 (+266) 22212217
(+266) 58689662 (+266) 28324750 (+266) 22329799 (+266) 22314311 (+266) 58854989 (+266) 62882400 (+266) 58701449 (+266) 22313540 (+266) 22310033
A minimum of seven (7) years working experience with three (3) years at managerial level.
LIST OF LICENSED ASSET MANAGERS IN LESOTHO
Letters of application, comprehensive Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of certificates & transcripts, names NAME AND TITLE OF PRINCIPAL OFFICER POSTAL ADDRESS and contacts (including telephone and e-mail) of two (2) referees must be sent to: Mr. Semoli Mokhanoi 10 Molepe Street 1. Mergence Investment Managers Lesotho (Pty) Ltd Managing Director Maseru 100 Director of Human Resources, Central Bank of Lesotho, CornerHillsview, Moshoeshoe & Airport Roads, P.O. Box 2. STANLIB Lesotho1184, Management Company (Pty) Ltd Mr. Kelello Rametse MGC Offi ce Park, Corner Pope John Paul II and Mpilo Boulevard MASERU 100. General Manager P.O. Box 115,Maseru 100 *Closing date for submission is Friday 7th December 2018 @ 16h30. NAME OF ASSET MANAGER
TELEPHONE/ FAX
(+266) 22326821
LIST OF LICENSED MICRO FINANCE INSTITUTION IN LESOTHO NAME Alimela Thuto Financial Services Limited
NAME AND TITTLE OF PRINCIPAL OFFICER Mrs. Mamonyake Mokebe
Letshego Financial Services Lesotho Limited
Mrs. Yande Sikazwe Motheo
Lesana Lesotho Limited
Mrs. Manthatisi Matsoso
Netloans Limited
Mr. Jafeta Pheko
Unlimited Financial Services Ltd
Mr. Alex Mpharoane
PHYSICAL& POSTAL ADDRESS Hopolang Building, Corner Airport & Parliament Roads, P.O. Box 1932, Maseru 100 Old Maseru Toyota Building, 20 Bowker Road, P.O. Box 13670, Maseru 100 3rd Floor LNDC Building, Kingsway Road, Private Bag A26, Maseru 100 Naomi House, 286 Bowker Street, Old Europe, P.O. Box 9717, Maseru 100 Nthane Estate Building, One way Traffic Road, Teyateyaneng, Berea
TELEPHONE (+266) 22322403 (+266) 22031017 (+266) 22321180 (+266) 58082223 (+266) 59021558
LIST OF LICENSED FOREIGN EXCHANGE BUREAU & MONEY TRANSFER NAME Mukuru Bureau De Change (Pty) Ltd (Foreign Exchange & Money Transfer) Interchange (Pty) Ltd (Foreign Exchange & Money Transfer)
NAME AND TITTLE OF PRINCIPAL OFFICER Andre Willem Ferreira Maliponto Ramakatane
PHYSICAL& POSTAL ADDRESS TELEPHONE Room 4, 1st Floor Hopolang Building, Opposite BNP Centre, Maseru (+27)878078310 100 Pioneer Mall Shop UG 21, Corner Pioneer & Mpilo Roads, Maseru (+266) 22324296 100
LIST OF LICENSED CREDIT BUREAUS NAME Compuscan Lesotho (Pty) Ltd
NAME AND TITTLE OF PRINCIPAL OFFICER Mrs Mannete Khotle
PHYSICAL& POSTAL ADDRESS Makhoane Building, Moshoeshoe Road, Industrial Area, P.O. Box 1005, Maseru 100
TELEPHONE (+266) 58912448
Life&Style Public Eye
FRIDAY DECEMBER 21, 2018
WEEKLY MAGAZINE
‘MAPALO NKHELOANE
I
Siblings pursue radical view of modelling
t is said knowing where one came from, and understanding one’s traditions and customs is key for one to find oneself since culture plays an important role in shaping people’s morals and principles. Two siblings, Makhebe Seatlana and Theresia Seatlana are on a journey to explore and embrace Basotho culture, something they say Basotho, especially the youth are no longer concerned with. Strangely, the siblings decided they could make this dream of theirs see the light of day through modelling. The two therefore opened a culturebased modelling agency two months ago which they named “Sotho Kids”. Makhebe says the reason they came up with the idea of opening an agency of this kind was because it came to his attention that the youth of Lesotho have lost their roots and abandoned their culture. The trend, Makhebe says, is worsening because nowadays a person is labelled “backward” when dressed culturally. He says according to the youth of today, one is only fashionable when she or he is in jeans and other western attire which seem to be dominating the contemporary sense of style among Basotho and other Africans. Sotho Kids, according to its founders, is meant to help Basotho regain their love for their own culture which has since been lost. “The whole essence is to use traditional wear and make it as elegant and as fashionable as possible. If for instance you go to Durban you will find Zulu people flaunting their cultural outfit in town and actually being proud of it. So why is it a different case with Basotho? Why can’t we as Basotho manufacture fashionable clothes using animal skin, for instance?” Makhebe asks. His greatest desire, he adds, is to see models from Lesotho going international to represent Lesotho in their cultural clothes instead of only having models seeming to appreciate their culture when the country is commemorating culture-based holidays. The current situation in Lesotho implies that Basotho are actually ashamed of their culture, he notes. Makhebe says so far the agency has recruited three women and one man as it has only just started but they are fully behind the whole concept of the agency. One of the Seatlana’s greatest dreams is to help youth make a career out of modelling especially in these days of high unemployment among the youth of Lesotho. The two intend to turn Sotho Kids into one of the biggest cultural modelling groups in Lesotho.
Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018 19
StyleNews Focus
In The Groove MOTHEPANE MOLAPO
The best things in life are not things I’ve had a lot of conversations with a lot of people and in attempting to get closer to my peers I’ve asked them: “What do you really want in life?”. The answers I’ve gotten were disturbing and heavy. Some people want designer diamond watches (carats over carrots). It’s heavy because they want big, black cars. Which I don’t see as a problem. The problem is the effect of materialism on us as Basotho people which happens when we plant our identities in the things we have or when we are bent on looking for things to “complete” us. Many of us end up unnecessarily emptying our wallets full of hard-earned money, just to feel full and be seen. Open anyone’s social media account and scroll for a few moments and you will see what I mean. At some point you’ll find a person standing in front of all the five or six luxury cars they own, wearing clothes that cost both your parents’ salaries combined. We’re exposed to such things by people we follow and they continue to post such while we continue to look at these and follow them for reasons that I’m not sure of yet. But the more we look at how much our peers, music idols, and government officials have and the “less” we have the more unhappy we become as comparison finds a home in us. We end up focusing on things that don’t even matter while we lose sight of real issues like peace in our country and in our lives. Integrity. Things like love. But how can we do otherwise when success is measured by possessions in society. We end up buying more things to be like the people we admire. But there are certain voids and problems that admiration can’t fill or solve. We worry less about other human beings and even less about real human connection and harmony. We’re too preoccupied with what the other person is wearing, what they drive and how much they make. It’s all a kind of a silent competition. That’s really what we’ve become. We want to hear about people’s net worth and titles so we can calculate the amount of respect to give them while those that don’t meet our expectations are seen as background noise. We’ve become so consumed with what we have that we forget who we are and all the other beautiful things we can achieve. Materialism exists. Everywhere. And even if we might not be ready to admit it just yet, sometimes it exists inside of us and the only way to counter it is so stop the comparison. Let the right thing push you. Be grateful, and sorry for the cliché, but count your blessings. I don’t believe having things is mad. I’m one of the people who don’t believe that money and possessions make you a bad person. Neither do I believe that refusing wealth is a sign of humility. What I believe to be bad is the lengths people would go to just to acquire some things in order to be socially accepted. I think it’s sad. One thing I don’t want to do is to let my opinions tell YOU what should be important to you. I just want you to be honest about the things that bring you peace and adjust your life accordingly. In the words of Art Muchwald: “The best things in life aren’t things” And I for one see no lie in that statement.
Young gospel artiste sets sight higher ‘MAPALO NKHELOANE
M
usic produced under the Christian gospel genre is usually considered an old people thing. Coming across a young gospel artiste, a male one in particular, is increasingly become rare, especially in an era where all the hype in showbiz revolves around hip hop. Minister Spokes, born Poloko Mohlapiso, has broken the stereotype and proved young male artistes can still be inspired to pursue a career through gospel music. The 21-year-old says the genesis of his love for gospel music can be traced to his childhood having been raised in a family where he was introduced to Christ at a tender age played a vital role in nurturing his talent. Mohlapisi recalls how the Deputy Principal at his school used to entrust him with leading the singing during assembly time back at Phuthiatsana High School, which he said boosted his confidence. Interestingly, unlike most youngsters who take to music Mohlapisi says he intends to go to University next year to further his studies since he is still young. “As famous as I anticipate to be one day, I really also want to study,” he says. His love for gospel music earned him the name “pastor” which became popular mostly during his school days. “I made peace with it and some of my peers just do not understand why I never go out for fun like most of my agemates. I always tell them I am fine with how I am and as long as I live to please God they must just let me be,” Mohlapisi says. He also recalls that his grandmother used to buy him tapes of the likes of the late Lundy and that further fuelled his love for the genre. In 2012, Mohlapisi joined one of the biggest groups in the country called Yadah Praise Family, a move which he says greatly
improved his music. There his skill was sharpened and he gained a lot of experience, sharing the stage with well-known gospel artistes such as the late Sfiso Ncwane, Joyous Celebrations members - Ntokozo Mbambo, Lebo Sekhobela, Dr Tumi and many others. He then went on to record an album in April this year at the New Life Centre Church, which was launched in November and has been gaining great support from Basotho. The 18-track album, Mohlapisi says, has received encouraging reviews from fans in Lesotho, South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana and is still spreading. Later, the aspiring gospel artiste then decided he was ready to launch his solo career
Where is the spirit of Christmas? ‘MAPALO NKHELOANE It is that time of the year when excitement is in the air as Christmas time fast approaches. People around the world are busy with their preparations for their own version of a Christmas celebration and Basotho are not an exception. But what is the idea of a perfect Christmas day according to Basotho? Is it going to church, going for a holiday, going shopping or perhaps just lazing around at home as if it is a normal day? Luckily, the day is a national holiday so almost everyone has time to spare for family and friends except for those men and women who work in critical services like the police and in the health and public transport sectors. For 47-year-old Tumelo Leraba of Teyateyaneng the manner in which Christmas Day is celebrated has been evolving, particularly in Lesotho. The day is not to today’s generation what it was his parents’ generation. “I think everybody will agree with me when I say Christmas is children’s day; or at least it used to be. Usually children would be the most excited about the day but it is quite a different case now. I still back then recall how thrilled my friends and I would be as Christmas was fast approaching. We would wait in anticipation crossing fingers that the 25th of December comes,” Leraba says. For him and his peers then the idea of getting new Christmas clothes was irresistible and the worst abomination parents could commit was to deny their children new clothes
for Christmas. ”Christmas would not be Christmas without new clothes and our parents knew that. Today 14-year-olds would choose a smartphone or money over Christmas clothes. I was surprised recently when my daughter told me she would not mind if I do not get her Christmas clothes. In our time all hell would have broken loose had my parents dared tell me they were not buying me clothes. If new clothes are not the most precious gifts to children for Christmas what is? A day out in clubs with friends? Or beer? Perhaps?” One other thing that Leraba says used to make his Christmas Day was the idea of going from house to house begging for Christmas goodies. The goodies included sweets, food and many other snacks, something he says children nowadays cannot do because it would be shameful. “Back then your parents were also my parents. Not even a single kid would spend Christmas on an empty stomach regardless of how less privileged he or she was because any house one visited would have good food to spare. “The spirit of Christmas has truly faded away and I am afraid because it is for the worst. Our children would rather go to a bar and not to church on such a sacred day, imagine,” he says. “There are so many amazing things that would happen when it was almost Christmas time that are not happening now. We no longer see those pretty white butterflies when we are approaching Christmas. Those were some of the things we looked up to. I wonder what it
and he went on to share the stage with more renowned gospel artistes like Neyi Zimu, and We Must Praise (from Botswana). He is currently booked for a concert which will feature international artistes. Mohlapisi emphasises that when it comes to God, age does not matter; his young age cannot stand in his way of ministering the Gospel of Christ through singing. He says he believes God can use anyone He sees fits regardless of their age, adding that people should make a living out of the talents God has granted them but for him it is about stewardship, therefore money is just a bonus and not a priority. “The bible says seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all things shall be added to you. “I am 21 and for me gospel music is stewardship; it is a ministry. I am just a guy who is really crazy about God so I believe he gave me this talent to minister to His people,” he says. Going forward, he notes he would like to see himself spreading the Gospel of Christ worldwide and wishes to witness people being impacted by the word of God through his music. He disclosed he was inspired by popular South African female gospel artiste, Ntokozo Mbambo who he says Mbambo never ceases to amaze him when it comes to how she gives her all when singing to praise God. Mohlapisi looks forward to sharing the stage with her. He also looks up to Travis Green and Leandria Johnson from the US. Some of the challenges he encounters include advances from girls who adore him. ”Another thing is having to deal with girls who are always on my case just because I am a singer. Some go as far as proposing and it is hard to turn them down but I do so,” he says laughing. His message to all gospel artists is that prayer, humbleness, and passion will lead them to the destination their hearts long for.
is the generation of today is doing wrong that prevents all of these things from happening. Is it punishment from God knows what.” Thapelo Maime, 27, says for him Christmas means family and church and there is no better time to spend with family than Christmas day. To him going to church on the day is a must because he considers the day holy for it is reserved as Jesus Christ’s birthday. “We have the entire year to do whatever we see fit but I think Christmas is very special and therefore should be celebrated in accordance with what it means. Church service feels like pretty the ideal way to kickstart Christmas, then later lunch with family. It is what I normally do and I recommend everybody to try it,” he states. Maime adds that like other gentlemen his age, he drinks but he spares the habit for other days and occasions. “I like how white people spend their Christmas. Call me a snob but Western people surely observe Christmas Day very well. A big fat turkey in the oven, big dining table, relatives, Christmas carols and an exchange of gifts,” he says. Mathapelo Masia, an 18-year-old girl from Maseru, says she wonders why there is no Father Christmas in Lesotho. When she was 16, she recalls how she spent her Christmas in South Africa and at the mall there was Santa Claus whom she took a picture with and received candy from. “In Lesotho I feel like there is not much to do on Christmas day. It just feels like any other normal day. Well, I go to church then come back and watch Christmas movies to get a feel of how Christmas should actually be celebrated,” Masia says.
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Friday December 21, 2018
Adverts News VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT Child Protection Specialist, NOC,Maseru,Lesotho,82823 OPENED FOR LESOTHO NATIONALS ONLY Location: Lesotho Work Type: Fixed Term Staff Closing Date: Wed Jan 16 2019 23:55:00 GMT+0200 (South Africa Standard Time)
I. Purpose for the job: Under the overall supervision of the Deputy Representative, the Child Protection Specialist supports the development and preparation of the Child Protection programme(s) and is responsible for the management, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and evaluation of the child protection programmes/projects within the country programme. The Specialist provides technical guidance and management support throughout the programming processes. H/She facilitates the administration and achievement of concrete and sustainable contributions to national and international efforts to create a protective environment for children against all harm, and to protect their rights to survival, development and well-being as established under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, international treaties/frameworks and UN intergovernmental bodies. The Child Protection specialist contributes to the achievement of results according to plans, allocation, results based-management approaches and methodology (RBM), and UNICEF’s Strategic Plans, standards of performance and accountability framework. II. Key function, accountabilities and related duties/tasks 1. Support to programme/project development and planning Support the preparation, design and updating of the situation analysis for the child protection programmes/projects to ensure that current and comprehensive data on child protection issues is available to guide UNICEF’s strategic policy advocacy, intervention and development efforts on child rights and protection, and to set programme priorities, strategies, and design and implementation plans. Keep abreast of development trends to enhance programme management, efficiency and delivery. Participate in strategic programme discussions on the planning of child protection programmes/ projects. Formulate, design and prepare programme/project proposals for the sector, ensuring alignment with UNICEF’s overall Strategic Plans and the Country Programme, as well as coherence and integration with the UN Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF), regional strategies and national priorities, plans and competencies. Establish specific goals, objectives, strategies, and implementation plans for the sector using results-based planning terminology and methodology (RBM). Prepare required documentations for programme review and approval. Work closely and collaboratively with colleagues and partners to discuss strategies and methodologies, and to determine national priorities and competencies to ensure the achievement of concrete and sustainable results. Provide technical and operational support throughout all stages of programming processes to ensure integration, coherence and harmonization of programmes/projects with other UNICEF sectors and achievement of results as planned and allocated. 2. Programme management, monitoring and delivery of results Plan and collaborate with colleagues and external partners to establish monitoring benchmarks, performance indicators, other UNICEF/UN system indicators and measurements, to assess and strengthen performance accountability, coherence and delivery of concrete and sustainable results for the assigned sector in child protection programmes. Participate in monitoring and evaluation exercises, programme reviews and annual reviews with the government and other counterparts to assess progress and to determine required actions and interventions to achieve results. Actively monitor programmes/projects through field visits, surveys and exchange of information with partners to assess progress, identify bottlenecks and potential problems. Take timely decisions to resolve issues and/or refer to relevant officials for timely resolution. Monitor and verify the optimum and appropriate use of sectoral programme resources (financial, administrative and other assets) confirming compliance with organizational rules, regulations, procedures, donor commitments, as well as standards of accountability and integrity. Ensure timely reporting and liquidation of resources. Prepare regular and mandated programme/project reports for management, donors and partners to keep them informed of programme progress. Prepare and assess monitoring and evaluation reports to identify gaps, strengths and/or weaknesses in programme management. Identify lessons learned and use knowledge gained for development planning and timely intervention to achieve goals 3. Technical and operational support to programme implementation Provide technical guidance and operational support to government counterparts, NGO partners, UN system partners and other country office partners and donors on the interpretation, application and understanding of UNICEF policies, strategies, processes, best practices, and approaches on child protection related issues to support programme management, implementation and delivery of results. Arrange and coordinate availability of technical experts with Regional Office/HQ to ensure timely and appropriate support throughout the programming process. Participate in child protection programme meetings, including programme development and contingency planning discussions on emergency preparedness in the country or other locations
designated, to provide technical and operational information, advice and support. Draft policy papers, briefs and other strategic programme materials for management use, information and/or consideration 4. Networking and partnership building Build and sustain effective close working partnerships with relevant government counterparts, national stakeholders, global partners, allies, donors, and academia - through active networking, advocacy and effective communication - to build capacity, exchange knowledge and expertise, and to reinforce cooperation to achieve sustainable and broad results in child protection. Prepare communication and information materials for CO programme advocacy to promote awareness, establish partnerships/alliances and to support fund raising for child protection programmes and emergency interventions. Participate and/or represent UNICEF in appropriate inter-agency (UNCT) discussions and planning on child protection related issues to collaborate with inter-agency partners/colleagues on UNDAF planning and preparation of programmes/projects. Ensure organizational position, interests and priorities are fully considered and integrated in the UNDAF process for development planning and agenda setting. 5. Innovation, knowledge management and capacity building Apply and introduce innovative approaches and good practices to build the capacity of partners and stakeholders, and to support the implementation and delivery of concrete and sustainable programme results. Keep abreast, research, benchmark, and implement best practices in child protection management and information systems. Assess, institutionalize and share best practices and knowledge learned. Contribute to the development and implementation of policies and procedures to ensure optimum efficiency and efficacy of sustainable programmes and projects. Organize and implement capacity building initiatives to enhance the competencies of clients and stakeholders to promote sustainable results in child protection and related programmes/projects. III Competencies and level of proficiency required Core Values Commitment Diversity and inclusion Integrity Core competencies Communication (II) Working with people (II) Drive for results (II) Functional Competencies: Leading and supervising (I) Formulating strategies and concepts (II) Analyzing (III) Relating and networking (II) Deciding and Initiating action (II) Applying technical expertise (III)
ADVERTISEMENT Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates to apply for the vacant positions below at PSI Lesotho. For full details interested candidates should visit the following website: http://www.psi.co.ls/Vacancies.aspx
VACANT POSITION
ICT Assistant
ictassistant@psi.co.ls
HOW TO APPLY Interested candidates should send by email cover letter, resume/curricula vitae (CV), list of 3-5 professional references (with contact information, supervisory references preferred), and scanned copy of all academic degrees to the corresponding email address provided. Only email submissions will be accepted. While all application submissions will be reviewed and considered, only the most qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. The application submission deadline is 12:30 p.m. local time on Thursday, 03rd January 2019.
NIGERIAN MEDICAL DOCTOR IMPESONATES
IV. Recruitment Qualifications Education: An advanced university degree in one of the following fields is required: international development, human rights, psychology, sociology, international law, or another relevant social science field. Experience: A minimum of five years of professional experience in social development planning and management in child protection related areas is required. Experience working in a developing country is considered as an asset. Relevant experience in programme development in child protection related areas in a UN system agency or organization is considered as an asset. Experience in both development and humanitarian contexts is considered as an added advantage. Language Requirements: Fluency in English is required as well as local language of the duty station. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered as an asset. V. How to apply Interested and qualified candidates are requested to submit their application to the following link: https://www.unicef.org/about/employ/?job=518532, by 16 January 2019. This notice will appear on http://www.unicef.org/about/employ/, http://www.unicef.org/Lesotho, and on UN Job List, UN Jobs. Qualified women are encouraged to apply. This vacancy announcement is opened to qualified Lesotho Nationals Only. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process
This is to inform the general public that Nigerian in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Lesotho is registered with Law Office in Lesotho since 2007 with number 2007/181 and updated its registration in 2012. As a registered Organisation with members and elected officers, only its officers are permitted to correspond, dialogue, and represent the organization with local and external bodies. NIDO Lesotho wishes to disassociate itself from the recent claim that “NIDO Lesotho is housed at Suite 301 A, Oxford Building Cathedral Area, Main North 1 Maseru with Dr. Benjamin Nwako has never been a registered member of NIDO Lesotho and his claim to be the president of NIDO Lesotho is deceitful and fraudulent. We therefore call on the general public, Lesotho government and all stakeholders to disregard the irresponsible fraudsters led by Dr. Benjamin Nwako and continue to partner with NIDO Lesotho led by Dr. Olufemi Fatoye and his executives. -NIDO LESOTHO EXECUTIVE
KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
Ministry of Public Works and Transport TENDER NOTICE Tenders are hereby invited from registered companies for PRODUCTION OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBER PLATES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT IN 3 REGIONS, CENTRAL , SOUTH AND NORTH. PROJECT IS DIVIDED INTO THREE LOTS • LOT 1- CENTRAL REGION( MASERU& THABA-TSEKA) • LOT 2- NORTH REGION (LERIBE, BEREA,BUTHA-BUTHE & MOKHOTLONG) • LOT 3- SOUTH REGION (MOHALES HOEK,QACHA,QUTHING &MAFETENG) NOTE THAT BIDDER IS LIMITED TO BID FOR 1 LOT ONLY. Tender documents can be obtained from the Procurement Unit Office, Ministry of Public Works and Transport headquarters, Moshoeshoe Road, Maseru. The date for collecting tender documents is from Friday 21st December 2018 from 0900hrs to 1600hrs during working days. Compliance Criteria • All prospective tenderers must attach to their tender Copies of Tax Clearance Certificate and Traders Lisence certified at the issuing organizations • Certificate of Bonafide • Signed Bid Form • Correct number of copies of Tender Submission (1 original and 4 copies) • All Prospective tenderers must submit a refundable Bid security of M50,000.00 ( Fifty thousand Maloti Only) in a form of a bank guaranteed cheque or a letter from accredited Financial Institution endorsed with a Revenue Stamp. THE TENDER AMOUNT SHOULD BE INCLUSIVE OF 15% V.A.T EVALUATION CRITERIA • Compliance to Tender Conditions • Technical Solution (80%) • Price (20%)
NOTE: A margin of preference shall be granted in terms of the Public Procurement Regulations 2007, clause 12(1),(2),(3) and as such tenders. 1. Certified copies of company registration by Ministry of Trade and Industry reflecting shareholding of all individuals within the company 2. Proof of local preference (certified copy of Passport) • 15% margin of preference if 51% or more shares owned by National of Lesotho • 10% margin of preference • If between 30% shares are owned by national of Lesotho, or • A bidder proposing to sub contract at least 50% of the contract to one or more Basotho business • 5% margin of preference in between 10% and 30% shares are owned by National of Lesotho 3. Certified copies of identification documents for members of the company 4. A naturalized Mosotho should attach copies of naturalization documents as proof A TENDER WITHOUT IDENTIFICATION OF TENDERER SHALL BE SUBMITTED, PROPERLY SEALED, SIGNED AND ENDORSED PRODUCTION FOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBER PLATES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT FOR 3 REGIONS, CENTRAL, NORTH AND SOUTH, AND 1 SEPARATE ENVELOPE MARKED FINANCIAL PROPOSAL must be deposited in the tender box 1st floor Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Corner Lepoqo and Senate Road opposite Browns cash and carry on Wednesday 23rd January 2019. The closing time for the receipt of Tenders is 12.00 Noon for the official opening at 12.30 on the 23rd January 2019. A mandatory Pre bid Meeting will be held on the 11th January 2019, to address all the issues in the tender document before the completion of the tender process. All potential bidders must attend At the Ministry of Public Works and Transport Board room as per above written address at 10:00am The Government of Lesotho- Tender Panel reserves the right to accept or reject any or all tenders …………………………………………………………. P.S-MoPW&T GOVERNMENT OF LESOTHO-MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORT
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White Paper sets out postBrexit rules for migrants
L
ow-skilled workers from EU countries will no longer have the automatic right to work in the UK after Brexit, under proposed new immigration rules. Home Secretary Sajid Javid said the plans did not include a “specific target” for reducing numbers coming into the UK. But they would bring net migration down to “sustainable levels”, he told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. There was “no reason to think” the plans would harm the economy, he added. A s ke d re p e a t e d l y i f t h e government was sticking to its manifesto commitment to bring annual net migration down to the tens of thousands, Mr Javid would only say “the objective is to bring net migration down to more sustainable levels”. But during Prime Minister’s Questions, Theresa May confirmed the government was sticking to the “tens of thousands” target for net migration. The home secretary said most people would agree the current level, 273,000, was “very high” and it should be cut to a level that “meets first our economic need but at the same time is not too high a burden on our communities or infrastructure”. He said the new immigration system would be based around skills rather than where people came from and would be the “biggest shake-up in 40 years”. The much-delayed White Paper - a document setting out proposed new laws before they are formalised in a government bill - includes: • Scrapping the current cap on the number of skilled workers such as doctors or engineers from the EU and elsewhere
• A consultation on a minimum salary requirement of £30,000 for skilled migrants seeking fiveyear visas • Low-skilled workers may be able to apply for short-term visas of up to a year • Visitors from the EU will not need visas • Plans to phase in the new system from 2021 The ending of free movement is a key part of Mrs May’s Brexit deal, although any replacement system is set to be part of post-Brexit trade talks. M r Jav i d h a s p rev i o u s ly suggested his plans do not depend on the UK leaving the EU on 29 March in an orderly manner, saying freedom of movement will end “deal or no deal”. Mr Javid described the White Paper as “delivering on the clear instruction to get control over our borders and will bring in a new system that works in the interest of the British people. “It will be a single, skills-based immigration system built around the talent and expertise people can bring, rather than where they come from - maximising the benefits of immigration and demonstrating the UK is open for business.” No cap on high-skilled workers The White Paper introduces a new visa route for skilled migrants, from Europe and beyond. It accepts a recommendation from the independent Migration Advisory Committee to scrap the current limit of 20,700 on workers classed as high-skilled coming to the UK using “Tier 2” visas. Tier 2 is the name for general work visas for people from outside the European Economic Area and Switzerland who have been offered a skilled job in the UK. Eligible
professions include nurses and doctors. There will be a consultation about the salary threshold of £30,000 amid opposition to such a cap from business and some cabinet members. The £30,000 minimum earnings rule already applies to non-EU workers in most Tier 2 visa cases but could also apply to migrants from the EU. Extending it to skilled migrants could affect the NHS’s ability to recruit the staff it needs, the body representing NHS trusts has warned. NHS Providers deputy chief executive Saffron Cordery told the BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “We are deeply concerned about what is going to happen. High skills does not equal high pay. “You have got starting salaries for nurses at £23,000 - also for paramedics, midwives. Junior doctors starting salaries at £27,000, healthcare assistants at £17,000, all coming in way below that £30,000 cap. “It is not just health workers, it is social care as well. We have to remember where the skills lay. They lay in those staff under £30,000.” Mr Javid said: “We are not setting the exact threshold today. There will be a threshold.” He added: “We will consult further on whether it is £30,000 or thereabouts.” Analysis: Routes into Britain The White Paper was trailed as creating an immigration system based on “skills”. The delay in publication was partly down to a dispute between ministers over a possible £30,000 salary threshold for skilled workers. But it’s the plan to create a route into Britain for unskilled or low-skilled workers which is likely
Friday December 21, 2018 21
British Prime Minister Theresa May to prove particularly controversial. The document says the reason for the route is that some sectors have built up a “reliance” on such staff from the EU and require a “period of time” to adjust to the end of freedom of movement. But the new scheme will be in place until at least 2025; it’ll be open to those in other “low-risk” countries, not just the EU; and there is currently no numerical cap. It raises the prospect that the immigration system the government is designing is as much about ensuring there’s a flow of unskilled labour, as it is about skilled workers. Labour and SNP reaction Labour’s shadow home secretary Diane Abbott said the government had “disgracefully labelled workers on less than £30,000 as low-skilled” when “our economy and public services are kept ticking by this majority of workers”. “The government is not, as it wrongly claims, using a skills-based criteria to meet the needs of our economy and our society. “It is using an income-based system which allows derivatives
traders free movement but which excludes nurses, social care workers and other professions in which we have severe skills or labour shortages.” Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the government’s plans would be “devastating for the Scottish economy” because “our demographics make it essential that we attract people to live and work here”. “A pa r t f ro m t h e s e r i o u s economic damage, these proposals send a terrible message that the UK is becoming less open and welcoming and more insular. “Why any PM would want to claim this as a personal legacy is beyond me,” added the SNP leader in a tweet. Lobby group the Confederation of British Industry has previously called for net migration targets to be scrapped amid fears that reducing low-skilled immigration could damage business. “The UK risks having too few people to run the health service, pick food crops or deliver products to stores around the country,” it warned in August.
How Greenland could become China’s Arctic base China is flexing its muscles. As the second richest economy in the world, its businessmen and politicians are involved just about everywhere in Asia, Africa and Latin America. Now, though, China is taking a big interest in a very different part of the world: the Arctic. It has started calling itself a “near-Arctic” power, even though Beijing is almost 3,000km (1,800 miles) from the Arctic Circle. It has bought or commissioned several ice-breakers - including nuclearpowered ones - to carve out new routes for its goods through the Arctic ice. And it is eyeing Greenland as a particularly useful way-station on its polar silk road. Greenland is self-governing, though still nominally controlled by Denmark. It is important strategically for the United States, which maintains a vast military base at Thule, in the far north. Both the Danes and the Americans are deeply worried that
China should be showing such an interest in Greenland. Least densely populated place on Earth You’ve got to go there to get an idea of how enormous Greenland is.It’s the 12th-largest territory in the world, 10 times bigger than the United Kingdom: two million square kilometres of rock and ice. Yet its population is minuscule at 56,000 – roughly the size of a town in England. As a result, Greenland is the least densely populated territory on Earth. About 88% of the people are Inuit; most of the rest are ethnically Danish. In terms of investment neither the Americans nor the Danes have put all that much money into Greenland over the years, and Nuuk, the capital, feels pretty poor. Denmark does hand over an annual subsidy to help Greenland meet its needs. Every day, small numbers of
people gather in the centre to sell things that will generate a bit of cash: cast-off clothes, children’s schoolbooks, cakes they’ve made, dried fish, reindeer-horn carvings. Some people also sell the bloody carcases of the big King Eider ducks, which Inuits are allowed to hunt but aren’t supposed to sell for profit. China’s air power At present you can only fly to Nuuk in small propeller-driven planes. In four years, though, that will change spectacularly. The Greenlandic government has decided to build three big international airports capable of taking large passenger jets. C h i n a i s b i d d i n g fo r t h e contracts. There’ll be pressure from the Danes and Americans to ensure the Chinese bid doesn’t succeed, but that won’t stop China’s involvement in Greenland. Interestingly, I found that opinion about the Chinese tended
to divide along ethnic lines. Danish people were worried about it, while Inuits thought it was a good idea. The Greenlandic prime minister and foreign minister refused to speak to us about their government’s attitude to China, but a former prime minister, Kuupik Kleist, told us he thought it would be good for Greenland. But the foreign affairs spokesman of the main Venstre party in the Danish coalition government, Michael Aastrup Jensen, was forthright about Chinese involvement in Greenland. “We don’t want a communist dictatorship in our own backyard,” he said. Much-needed wealth China’s sales technique in other countries where its companies operate is to offer the kind of infrastructure they badly need: airports, roads, clean water. The Western powers that once
colonised many of them haven’t usually stepped in to help, and most of these governments are only too grateful for Chinese aid. But it comes at a price. China gets access to each country’s raw materials - minerals, metals, wood, fuel, foodstuffs. Still, this doesn’t usually mean long-term jobs for local people. Large numbers of Chinese are usually brought in to do the work. Country after country has discovered that Chinese investment helps China’s economy a great deal more than it helps them. And in some places - South Africa is one of them - there are complaints that China’s involvement tends to bring greater corruption. But in Nuuk it’s hard to get people to focus on arguments like these. What counts in this vast, empty, impoverished territory is the thought that big money could be on its way. Kuupik Kleist put the argument at its simplest. “We need it, you see,” he said.
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Friday December 21, 2018
Africa News Affairs
South Africa issues warrant of arrest for Grace Mugabe South African prosecutors have issued an arrest warrant for Zimbabwe’s ex-first lady, Grace Mugabe, for allegedly assaulting a model in 2017, police say. The move comes after a court annulled her diplomatic immunity in July. South Africa’s government was criticised for letting Mrs Mugabe leave the country after the alleged assault. Gabriella Engels accused Mrs Mugabe of beating the “hell out of me” with an electric extension cord in a hotel room in Johannesburg. Mrs Mugabe said at the time that she had acted in selfdefence after the “intoxicated and unhinged” model attacked her in the room where her two sons lived. Police spokesman Vishnu Naidoo said on Wednesday: “I
can confirm that a warrant for the arrest of Grace Mugabe was issued last Thursday.” He said police were seeking the assistance of Interpol to enforce the warrant. It is unclear why the reporting of the warrant was delayed and there has been no response yet from Mrs Mugabe or Zimbabwean authorities. Lobby group AfriForum, which has been pursuing the case, welcomed the arrest warrant. “It seems that justice is going to take place and we are looking forward to this matter going forward,” South Africa’s Times Live website quoted AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel as saying. It is unclear whether South Africa will push for Mrs Mugabe’s extradition.
The Mugabe family owns properties in South Africa. The alleged assault took place about three months before the military takeover in Zimbabwe, which saw Robert Mugabe resign as president after 37 years in power. What happened in Johannesburg? The alleged assault took place in August 2017 after Mrs Mugabe found Ms Engels with her two sons, Robert and Chatunga, in a hotel room in Sandton, a wealthy suburb in the city’s north. The then first lady was in South Africa to be treated for an ankle injury, Zimbabwean media reported. Ms Engels released an image of a head injury online. “When Grace entered I had no idea who
she was,” she told South African’s News24 at the time. “She walked in with an extension cord and just started beating me with it. She flipped and just kept beating me with the plug. Over and over. I had no idea what was going on. I needed to crawl out of the room before I could run away.” She added: “There was blood everywhere. Over my arms, in my hair, everywhere.” The South African Police Service (Saps) investigated the alleged assault but the foreign minister at the time, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, granted Mrs Mugabe diplomatic immunity, allowing her to leave the country without answering questions. That immunity was annulled in July.
What is AfriForum? The South African lobby group AfriForum says it aims to protect the rights of minorities, with a specific focus on the rights of Afrikaners. It has been vocal in lobbying for white farmers. Soon after the alleged assault on Ms Engels it said it would represent and assist her with the prosecution of Mrs Mugabe. At the time, AfriForum’s lawyer Gerrie Nel said he was concerned about the possibility of political interference during the case, News24 reported. Mr Nel was better known as the lawyer who led the prosecution of South African athlete Oscar Pistorius. He quit to join the lobby group, heading up its new private prosecuting unit.
Ramazani Shadary: Kabila’s choice for DR Congo president
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resident Joseph Kabila’s p re f e r re d s u c c e s s o r, E m m a n u e l R a m a za n i Shadary, has a fearsome reputation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The question is whether Mr Shadary can convert that into a victory in Sunday’s presidential election. The former deputy premier and interior minister is said by many to have earned the nickname “Back To Back” for his role in putting down a succession of opposition protests in 2017. The crackdown, which turned deadly, led to him being sanctioned by the European Union. But his supporters say the name is a reference to his years as a model student at DR Congo’s University of Lubumbashi, from where he graduated with five distinctions in 1987. Mr Shadary’s loyalty to the president has been rewarded with the specially created post of permanent secretary in DR Congo’s main political party. But many regard the regime stalwart and hardliner as a surprise candidate for the top job, with reports suggesting that even members of Mr Kabila’s inner circle were taken aback when Mr Shadary announced his leadership bid. ‘Loyal hardliner’ Some analysts warn that, if elected, Mr Shadary may merely keep the presidential seat warm while Mr Kabila, expected to step down after 17 years, plots a comeback. The president has not ruled out standing again in 2023, adding “there is still a long journey ahead” and he will remain in politics after the poll.
Born in 1960 in Kasongo in eastern DR Congo, Mr Shadary studied at the University of Lubumbashi’s political sciences department before entering public life in the 1990s. He was elected deputy governor of his native Maniema province in 1997 and a year later became governor of the region, from where Mr Kabila’s mother also hails. “I don’t think he ever dreamed of becoming president of DR Congo,” Prof Alphonse Maindo of the University of Kisangani told the BBC. “He is not someone who is seen as having charisma, or able to rally people around him.” Mr Shadary’s peers gave him another nickname, “Make It Happen”, when in 2018 he successfully led negotiations to have electoral reforms passed in parliament despite spirited opposition. Mr ‘Make It Happen’ • Born 29 November 1960 in Kasongo, eastern DR Congo • Long-time ally of President Kabila • Became interior minister in 2016 • Under EU sanctions for alleged human rights violations in deadly crackdowns on protests • His ruthless reputation has earned him the nickname “Make It Happen” • He has been pursuing a PhD degree at the University of Kinshasa since 2015 • A coolly efficient politician who is also said to have a quiet sense of humour Mr Shadary rose to national political prominence in December 2016 when he was appointed as one
Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary will rely heavily on the president’s supporters to win
of three deputy prime ministers, as well as minister of internal security. President Kabila’s time in office should have ended that same month, but no elections were held despite it being a constitutional requirement, and the polls were delayed repeatedly. In Kabila’s shadow In February 2018, Mr Shadary was named the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD) permanent secretary, elevating him to the second-most powerful position in the party he co-founded in 2002. The PPRD is the main group in the ruling Alliance for the Presidential Majority. It was a role created as part of internal party reforms in preparation for the upcoming election, and widely regarded as a reward from the president for his loyalty. As presidential candidate, Mr Shadary will represent the governing coalition’s new electoral grouping, the Common Front for Congo. “Mr Shadary was pretty much unknown before he was appointed as successor to Joseph Kabila,” Prof Filip Reyntjens of Belgium’s University of Antwerp told the BBC. “If you had asked people for
a list of 10 possible candidates he would not have even got a mention.” He says there is a possibility that “a weaker personality” at DR Congo’s helm could allow the outgoing president to exercise power from the sidelines. “That would make sense from Mr Kabila’s point of view.” Prof Maindo agrees, and says that Mr Kabila regards the unexpected reforms of Angola’s President Joao Lourenco as a cautionary tale. Prior to his election last year, Mr Lourenco had been viewed by many as a puppet of longserving President Jose Eduardo dos Santos. But he has since turned on the former president and his family. But what is different, says Prof Maindo, is that Mr Shadary is “without large funds of his own” and therefore “dependent on Mr Kabila’s finances”. “He cannot get international support because of EU sanctions, so this means he also relies on the goodwill of Mr Kabila.” Aside from his loyalty to the president, analysts also credit Mr Shadary’s rise through the ranks to his hardline approach. As interior minister he oversaw a brutal crackdown on anti-Kabila protests across the country in 2017. During that time, dozens of
civilians were killed by government forces. ‘Parody of an election’ Rights groups have also accused Mr Shadary of spearheading a brutal military crackdown in the Kasai region, where longsimmering resentment exploded into rebellion in 2016. The EU has renewed existing travel bans and financial sanctions on Mr Shadary and 13 other senior officials for election delays and violently suppressing antigovernment protests in 2017. I n te r n a t i o n a l c a m pa i g n group Human Rights Watch says Sunday’s poll risks being a “parody of an election” in which popular opposition candidates have been “arbitrarily excluded” and resources controlled so as to allow Mr Shadary “an unfair advantage”. The exclusion of two heavyweight opposition contenders, Jean-Pierre Bemba and Moise Katumbi, may have boosted his chances. Mr Shadary has also been helped by the fact that the opposition vote may be split between two prominent candidates, Felix Tshisekedi and Martin Fayulu. The test, if elected on Sunday, will be whether he can emerge from the shadow of Mr Kabila.
Exchange Rates LOTI/RAND 0,00 LOTI/EUR 16,59 LOTI/GBP 18,61 LOTI/JPY 0,13 LOTI/USD 14,17
0 (0) 0.00 (0.02%) -0.01 (-0.03%) 0.00 (-0.30%) -0.05 (-0.32%)
Commodities Gold Ounce Silver Ounce Palladium Ounce Platinum Ounce Brent Crude Oil
1195,60 14,39 1078,00 829,00 81,11
0.00 0.05 16.00 8.50 -0.47
(0.00%) (0.35%) (1.50%) (0.03%) (-0.58%)
Interest rates (/ Annum) Central Bank Lombard Facility 9.33 91 Days 5.33
Commercial Banks Prime Lending Rate Deposit Rates Savings Rate Call
Business Friday December 21, 2018
Monthly Inflation (%) 2017 to 2018
9.92 0.00 0.84 0.77
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Low to medium income debt cost triples
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ASHINGTON – Borrowing by low and middle-income economies from external official and private creditors surged to US$607 billion (more than M9 trillion) in 2017 from $181 billion the previous year, the highest level in three years, as net debt inflows surpassed equity inflows for the first time since 2013, the World Bank’s International Debt Statistics 2019 released recently shows. Lesotho recently joined the low to middle income category f ro m t h e L ea st D eve l o p e d Countries’ pool. Ne t f i n a n c i a l i n f l ows – i n c l u d i n g d eb t a n d e q u i ty – jumped to $1.11 trillion, the highest level in four years, the report indicates. External debt stocks of low and middle-income countries rose to $7.1 trillion last year, a 10 percent increase from 2016. The ratio of debt-to-gross national income (GNI) on average was steady at 25 percent and the ratio of debtto-export earnings declined to 102 percent. Nevertheless, 11 low and middle-income countries, including Lebanon, Mongolia and Mozambique, have debt-to-GNI ratios of over 100 percent. The database measures stocks and flows of debt borrowed from creditors outside the country and other financial flows for 121 low
and middle-income countries. Sources underlying the data include loan-by-loan data on public and publicly guaranteed external debt, aggregate data on non-guaranteed private sector external debt, balance of payments statistics, official aid flows, and short-term external debt. “Measurement is the first step to improving debt management and confronting issues of debt sustainability,” said World Bank Development Economics Data Group Director Haishan Fu. “These statistics are a unique resource and provide a vital building block for policymakers and experts across the globe. The World Bank is committed to making data accessible to respond to user needs and inform the debt management challenges countries face.” Regionally, Sub-Saharan Africa countries added almost 16 percent more external debt, South Asian economies added to external debt stocks by 11 percent, and economies of the Middle East and North Africa increased external debt stocks by close to 12 percent, while external debt stocks rose by near three percent in the countries of Eastern Europe and Central Asia and In Latin America and the Caribbean. Net public and publicly g u a ra n te e d b o n d i s s u a n c e accounted for 85 percent of net long-term debt inflows from all
Central Bank of Lesotho before the facelift was completed in this file picture
official and private creditors combined. New bond issuance jumped to a record high of $355 billion in in 2017 from $196 billion in 2016. Equity – as opposed to debt – inflows to low and middle-income countries were down slightly to $511 billion in 2017, and foreign direct investment inflows shrank for the second consecutive year, falling three percent to $454 billion. However, foreign direct investment inflows to the poorest
countries – those eligible for financing from the International Development Association – rose one percent. New commitments to IDAeligible countries from private creditors rose to $9.2 billion in 2017, more than three times the amount in 2016, The fact that over one third of these loans were contracted by IDA-only countries assessed to be at high risk of debt distress underscores rising concerns about debt
sustainability, given that loans from private creditors typically h ave b u l l e t re pay m e n ts o r relatively short maturities and carry market interest rates. International Debt Statistics 2 0 1 9 p rov i d e s a wea l t h o f statistics and analysis on the external debt stocks and financial flows (debt and equity) of the world’s economies in 2017. It offers more than 200 time-series indicators from 1970 to 2017 for most reporting countries. - WB
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Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018
News Business
China works to increase access to foreign firms
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hawing trade tensions between the world’s biggest economies, US and China, buoyed sentiment. However, stocks fell sharply on Friday last week after weaker-than-expected data in China and Europe exacerbated concerns of a global economic slowdown. Stocks initially surged last week amid hopes the US and China would be able to strike a permanent deal on trade. Friday’s loses wiped out the gains for the week across major indexes. Friday also marked the first time since March 2006 that all major US indexes closed in a correction, down at least 10% from their 52-week highs. On Friday, China said it would suspend additional tariffs on US autos and also confirmed it would reduce a 40% charge on US auto imports to 15% for 90 days. The uncertainty around the ongoing negotiations has kept investors on the edge recently. China is working to increase access to foreign companies, a move aimed at smoothing USChina trade relations. This plan, the reports says, would replace the county’s Made in China 2025 plan, a framework aimed at making China a leader in industries like clean energy cars and robotics. President Donald Trump told reporters that he was prepared to intervene in the Justice Department’s case against a top executive at Chinese telecoms giant Huawei if it would help serve national security or help US-Sino trade talks. Huawei is one of the largest tech companies in China. It is also seen as a symbol of pride by Chinese government. China reported industrial
Making Money Make Sense Leonard Nyambuya output and retail sales growth numbers for November that missed expectations. This is the latest sign shown by China that its economy may be slowing down. The data underscored the rising risks to China’s economy as Beijing works to resolve an ongoing trade war with the US. L a s t we e k C h i n a wa s reportedly proposing cutting tariffs on US-made cars to 15%, the same tax levied on car imports from other countries. The plans will undo the 40% import duty China imposed on US cars, when the two countries were trading tariff barbs in June. The proposal, the timing of which remains uncertain, comes as the two countries restart trade talks. In a sign that China wants to lower trade tensions with the United States, the country made first major US soybean purchases in more than six months on Wednesday last week. Investors heaved a sigh of relief across broader stock markets. The European Central Bank confirmed it will cease its crisis bailout programme, quantitative easing (huge net asset purchase programme) to stimulate the economy this month. The ECB has decided to stop its bond buying scheme, worth €3 billion a month, despite a recent slowdown in the bloc’s recovery. The move, first announced
NOTICE OF LOST LEASE NOTICE is hereby given that I intend to apply for a certified copy of a registered Title Deed/Lease to immovable property registered under No. 13284-122 on the 15/April/1985 in favour of NEHENG THIBELI in respect of Every right or interest on and to the building(s) and other developments express or implied in certain Plot No. 13284-122 situated at MOTIMPOSO MASERU URBAN AREA on Plan No. 13284-122 as held by Chief Surveyor. All persons having objection to the issue of the said
copy are requested to lodge them in writing to the Land Registrar within three weeks from the last publication of the notice. ADDRESS: APPLICANT’S NAMES AND ADDRESS: Land Registrar: ‘Matlotliso Esther ‘Neheng Lepota Land Administration Authority P.O. BOX 1246, Lerotholi Road, Lithabaneng HaMatala, P.O. Box 11856 MASERU 100 CONTACT NUMBERS: 58867676
OFFICE TO LET Matanki House Location: Corner Kingsway/ Balfour Rd Floor area: 210 Meter Squares Available: 01ST February 2019 Contact Person T.Mokuoane Cell +266 62 333 887 Email: tsatsimok@hotmail.com
in June, is a big step towards unwinding the policies brought in to stabilise the Eurozone in the wake of the financial crisis. The ECB was last among the major central banks to embark on the scheme of pumping funds into the economy via bonds in 2009. Since then it has injected more than two trillion, intended to be used by financial institutions to boost credit, and soar demand across the economy. The ECB last week voted to keep its main interest rate on hold at zero percent. European shares also tanked after the release of weaker-thanexpected data. The HIS Markit Flash Eurozone PMI index fell to 51.7, its lowest level in four years. The DAX 30 in Germany dropped 2.2% to 107, 88.09, the CAC 40 in France tanked 3.8% to close at 4,813.13. The UK jobs market seems to have avoided the Brexit effect at least for now. This is after data released last week revealed that UK wages are rising at the fastest pace for a decade. The unexpected rise in wages is seen as positive for the sterling. However, this data pales into insignificance compared to the latest Brexit developments as far as markets are concerned and on this front the ongoing uncertainty leaves the pound vulnerable to further declines. The pound has been under pressure last week after Prime Minister May cancelled a parliamentary vote on her Brexit agreement and pledged to seek more concessions from EU officials. The drop in sterling sent investors scurrying for cover in safe haven assets, with the gilt futures rallying while German 10year bond yields fell. Po l i t i c a l s t o r m c l o u d s that were gathering around Prime Minister Theresa May’s leadership dissipated at least for now, as she shrugged off a no confidence vote with a slimmerthan-anticipated margin. London shares ended higher on Theresa May winning the leadership challenge, which greatly reduced the chances of a no-deal Brexit. The next hurdle to clear for the Prime Minister is to convince the more than one third of her own Conservative
Party colleagues, who voted against her leadership, before the House Commons, with tensions heightened in the Party in the wake of last week’s vote. Asian stock tanked last week on growing signs of economic slowdown in China, despite easing trade tensions between the world’s top two economies and expectations that china will step up efforts soon to support its cooling economy. It was not a good week for investors in Asia as signs of thawing tensions in the US-China trade war failed to boost the region. Chinese shares dropped, with the Shanghai Composite losing 3%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index slipped more than 3.5%. Japan’s Nikkei 225 index lost 1.5% or 556.01 to close at 22243.66 and South Korea’s KOSPI index dropped 3.5% or 71.54 points, to close at 2,096.00. African Markets Econet Zimbabwe’s fintech business Cassava Smartech Z i m ba bwe L i m i te d (CSZ L) listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) on Tuesday, by way of introduction. Following the finalisation of the conditions precedent to the demerger from Econet 770 million CSZL shares representing 77 5 of the initial were issued on credit to members of Econet pro rata to their shareholdings as at the record date. Last week the ZSE continued on its downward trajectory after a week of being driven mostly by speculators seeking a safe haven in equities. Gains were recorded in SeedCo International up 0.44%, Old Mutual up 0.19% and Simbisa up 0.03%. On the flipside ART was down 16.19%, African Sun slipped 10%, OK Zimbabwe was down 3.01%, with Dawn Properties shedding 2.99%. O n Friday last week total value traded decreased by 79.04% to $1.06 million dominated by trades in Dairibord, Padenga and Simbisa, contributing, 37.27%, 19.27% and 14.46% respectively. The All Share Index marginally finished below the flat line dropping 0.5% to close the week at 152.4 points. Commodities Gold edged lower last week as the dollar steadied and equities climbed on signs of easing trade tensions between the United States and China, while palladium rose to a record, trading at a premium to the bullion. The more-than-anticipated positive news headlines weighed on the yellow metal topside. The dollar index, which measures the greenback against six major
rivals, was down a tad at 96.958, after retreating from nearly one month last week. Oil prices rose last week, after data showed inventory declines in the US and as investors began to realise that the global oil market could have a deficit sooner than they had previously thought. Stockpiles fell by 1.2 million barrels in the week to December 7, disappointing some investors who looking forward to a three million slip. OPEC’s output agreement w i t h R u ss i a a n d Ca n a d a ’s decision to mandate production cuts could create an oil market supply deficit by the second quarter of next year, if the top producers stick to their deal. The pronouncement shows a desire to support oil prices in the low $60s per barrel, avoiding the very low levels of 2014, but not tightening markets enough that it causes more market share loses to shale. Global oil supply has outstripped demand over the last six months, inflating inventories and pushing crude oil prices to its lowest in more than a year at the end of November. OPEC and the other big producers, including Russia, agreed two weeks ago they would trim excess supply, agreeing to cut production by a total of 1.2 million barrels a day. Crude futures also drew support from indications that the trade war between the US and China maybe be easing. Bouts of intra-day volatility which are headline-driven, swinging from Federal Reserve tightening, geopolitics and global economic slowdown are all reasons roiling investors. The general sentiment among investors right now is to sell rallies than buy dips. Markets have been dealing with some headline issues they cannot seem to shake off. Until we get some resolution to some of those issues, stocks’ wild ride is set to continue. Until next week enjoy making money on capital markets. Thinking of raising capital (issuing shares or bonds), listing shares on the securities market, buying or discounting bonds, Treasury bills, equity trading and capital markets news and information? Contact us today. Leonard Nyambuya Katleho Securities, (Member of Maseru Securities Market) +266 27002418, 53230700, 68730055 l nya m b uya @ ka tl e h o.co. l s, securities@katleho.co.ls, www. katleho.co.ls leonardnyambuya@yahoo.com Plot Number 12292-972 Mabelebele Street, Katlehong, Maseru, Lesotho
Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018 25
Business News
Isabel dos Santos African and women empowerment She often encourages young women to leverage the world’s increased reliance on technology and artificial intelligence, which she refers to as “digitalization” HALEY THOMPSON
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RUSSELS, Belgium – At a United Nations debate in New York, Isabel dos Santos, who is currently the richest woman in Africa, spoke of the economic empowerment of African women as a key to transforming society. This and many of her other hopeful and encouraging messages have inspired many citizens in African countries, mainly young women, to pursue their ambitions in business. Dos Santos believes that some of the most promising and successful businesspeople in the world have been African because of the continent’s entrepreneurial spirit. This spirit, however, has been weighed down by the stigmatisation of women in the workplace. This has robbed the economy of valuable innovators and has barred women from achieving their ambitions. But by ensuring that young women can access the same education, job opportunities, and potential for growth as men, dos Santos believes that she can change this attitude and instill a national confidence in women. This type of thinking falls in line with her more general philosophy of reform: “First the seed, then
KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
the future.” This dictum seems to urge against immediate change and, instead, encourages slow and steady growth. The seeds that Isabel dos Santos thinks ought to be planted are also tied up in the economic freedom of women – by creating jobs, providing training, and breaking sexist stigmas, she believes that women can experience increased financial stability while giving their home countries more inf luence in the international economy. Dos Santos’ Vision of an Entrepreneurial Africa Isabel Dos Santos has spent a lot of time planting these seeds in Africa, focusing her efforts in her home country of Angola where she meets with young people and speaks with them about the power of entrepreneurship. Sometimes, she visits them in small, personable rooms at universities and other institutions, other times in much larger ones during her speeches and debates. Most tellingly, she refers to famous African entrepreneurs as a “great family” and invites everyone with the motivation to work hard and come join them. She often encourages young women to leverage the world’s increased reliance on technology
and artificial intelligence, which she refers to as “digitalisation”. She believes working toward innovations in technology is key to increasing Africa’s presence in the international economy while flooding the continent with unique employment opportunities. With just a computer and internet connection, unemployed or underpaid citizens can find m o re wo rk , s o m e t i m e s w i t h the higher wages that are more c o m m o n p l a c e i n d e ve l o p e d countries, to support their families and stimulate their local economies. During a conversation with students at the University of Warwick interested in developing Africa, dos Santos tells a young woman who is eager to accomplish her ambitions “now” that she has to be patient and have not just a goal but a string of subgoals to reach it. She goes on to encourages the student to involve herself as deeply as she can in the decision processes that influence that goal, and also to understand that sometimes it’s important to just focus on school, other times on a career or starting a business. This type of advice for strategic hesitance can be found in many of her speeches. Isabel dos Santos is the daughter of Jose Eduardo dos Santos, A n go l a ’s l o n g - t i m e f o r m e r
president. Much of her wealth came from her investments and her previous position as the chairwoman of an oil company owned by the state called Sonangol. Dos Santos considers herself an independent businesswoman and investor and has become Africa’s first females billionaire. Forbes ranks her as the 9 th wealthiest billionaire in Africa for 2018. A Beacon of Hope in a MaleDominated Market For young businesswomen in various African countries, her success story has been a beacon of hope. But dos Santos has told various reporters that her rise to riches was marred by the sexism she had to endure in a male-dominated African business world. S h e h a s n o s h o r t a ge o f stories concerning prejudice and discrimination based on her gender, such as during business meetings where the people she’s negotiating with would look to her male assistant, advisor, or lawyer for validation though she already stated her offer. She is also frequently asked what business her husband is in when her wealth is made clear. Despite her tribulations in the business world, Isabel dos Santos has maintained a charitable and hopeful perspective on life and takes on many projects geared toward improving small communities and local economies. One of these projects was in
Humpata, in the province of Huila, where dos Santos helped establish a strawberry field, “planting the seed” to empower citizens. This project gave 120 women a place to work and a new income. On her website, dos Santos says: “ C re a t i n g o p p o r t u n i t i e s a n d employment for women means betting on the progress of the communities themselves. When they thrive, women invest their income in the family, health, and education. I value this as a sense of duty, commitment, and dedication. The impact that women create around them is powerful and transformative.” As a result, smaller communities will have more prosperous citizens and influence. Should those new entrepreneurs be African women, then dos Santos hopes that their success will help chip away at the stigma that women are less competent than men. This is all part of one of Isabel dos Santos’ larger goals to increase the prosperity of African countries as a whole. She plans to accomplish this by working from the ground up, focusing on the individual, such as the promising young men and woman of various African countries. By empowering them, she is, in turn, empowering their communities. This creates value within towns that have historically not had the chance to prosper, and by strengthening local economies, the national economy itself is bolstered. - APO
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Wool and Mohair Promotion Project P.O. Box 24 Maseru 100
SECTION I: INVITATION FOR BIDS 1. The Kingdom of Lesotho represented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (hereinafter referred to as the “Purchase”) received a Grant from International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) toward the cost of the Wool and Mohair Promotion Project, and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract: SUPPLY AND DELIEVERY OF SMALL-SCALE PROCESSING EQUIPMENT. 2. The Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security invites sealed bids from eligible bidders for supply and delivery of small-scale processing. The maximum duration for the supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of Goods is 28 days after the signature of the Contracts. The bidding documents covers the folowing goods: Items Quantity 1. Exclusive Power Loom 3 2. Rapier Loom 3 3. Wool and Mohair Washing 3 Machine 4. Yarn Dying Machine 2 5. Spinning Machine 3 3. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding procedures specified in IFAD’ Project Procurement Guidelines – September 2010. 4. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information from the Procurement Office, Wool and Mohair Promotion Project and inspect the bidding documents at the address given below before 08th JANUARY 2018 5. A prospective Bidder requiring any clarification of the bidding documents may notify the Wool and Mohair Promotion Project in writing to the attention of: Attention: Ms Moroesi Thateng, room number 6 Address: Wool and Mohair Promotion Project Department of Livestock Service Old Airportroad, Moshoeshoe II Country: Lesotho Telephone: +26652519400
Electronic mail address: wamppprocurement@gmail.com 6. A complete set of bidding document may be obtainable upon payment of non-fundable fee of M500.00 at the address below: The method of payment will be cash only. 6. No pre-bid meeting will be organized for this procurement package. 7. Bids must be received by the Purchaser at the address specified below, no later than 08th JANUARY 2018 at 13:45 Lesotho time. Late bids will be rejected. 8. The Secretary, Tender Box, First Floor Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security 80 Constitution Roan Maseru 100 9. Bids shall be valid for a period of 90 days after the bid submission deadline, and must be accompanied by a bid security of M10,000.00 and valid for 120 days after the bid submission deadline. 10. The address for Payment of Bidding Document is Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Headquarters, Crops Accounts Office 80 Constitution Road Maseru,100 Lesotho Telephone: +26652519400 12. Address for collection of bidding document is Wool and Mohair Promotion Project Department of Livestock Services Old Airport Road , Moshoeshoe II P.O.BOX 24 MASERU Lesotho Phone #:+26652519400 13. Bids will be opened in the presence of bidder’s representatives who choose to attend at the address below at 14:00hrs Lesotho times The boardroom, First floor Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security 80 Constitution Roan Maseru 100
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Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018
Workplace Careers Business News
Public Eye Friday December 14, 2018 11
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WASCO/DCS
21ST DECEMBER 2018 ADVERTISEMENT
The Lesotho Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) invite applications from suitably qualified Local Candidates for the following position: Job Title: Reports to:
DIRECTOR CORPORATE SERVICES CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Purpose of the Role: To provide direction and oversee management of corporate services of WASCO and ensure provision of high-level systems and services within the Company: Key Tasks: 1. STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT • Develop the Divisional contributions to the Company Strategic Plan and the Annual Business Plans to ensure alignment with the Company strategy and business plan • Develop and review operational plans for the Division to facilitate implementation of the business plan • Align Divisional strategic initiatives with best programs and project management practices to ensure that they achieve their intended outcomes: 2. LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT • Set and clarify goals for achievement of strategic and operational objectives, and ensure commitment and accountability for agreed results • Plan, manage and control resources within the Division for efficient and effective acquisition and utilization • Plan and direct employee development, performance management processes and programs to enhance staff capability and capacity 3. POLICIES, SYSTEMS, CONTROLS • Develop systems, policies and procedures to enhance management and delivery of work in the Division and the Company • Develop standards of performance and monitor their implementation for all areas of work. • Set performance indicators and measures in all areas and ensure compliance.
Core Competencies: • Strategic Leadership Capability and Decision-Making • Risk Management and Company Governance • Strategic Financial Management • Client Orientation and Customer Focus • People Leadership and Empowerment • Change Management • Strategic Communication • Environmental and Health and Safety consciousness Minimum Qualifications & Experience • MBA or Post Graduate Degree in Business Management/ Administration/Human Resources Management or related field • A minimum of (5) Years similar working experience in managerial role. Salary and Benefits We offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Submission of Applications Applications accompanied by detailed CV, names of two referees, certified copies of educational certificates and transcripts should be submitted to: The Human Resource Manager Water and Sewerage Company P.O. Box 426 Maseru 100 The closing date for submissions of applications is 3rd January 2019. Disclaimers: • Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. • Correspondence will only be conducted with short-listed candidates. • Selection interviews for short-listed candidates will be at a date, time and place determined by WASCO. • Short-listed candidates will be required to authenticate information provided in the CV. • WASCO reserves the right to leave an advertised position unfilled if no suitable candidate is identified. • The employment of successful candidate is subject to
KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
MINISTRY OF HEALTH PROJECT NAME: TENDER SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF DOMESTIC GAS BID REF: 12 OF 2018/2019 1.The mission of Ministry of Health is to provide an efficient and compassionate health care with particular emphasis on the prevention and eradication of priority health a problems that are amenable to cost-effective interventions. There is need to warm the remote Health Centre’s to enhance effective service delivery throughout the year. 2.The Ministry of Health now invites sealed Tenders from eligible Tenderers for the Supply and Delivery of Domestic Gas to the Hard to Reach Health Centres LOT 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Location Mokhotlong Butha-buthe and Leribe Maseru Mohale’s Hoek Quthing Qacha’s Nek Thaba-Tseka Other hard to reach Health Centres
Quantity to be Supplied 240*48KG 150*48KG 30*48KG 150*48KG 120*48KG 150*48KG 180*48KG 150*48KG
interested Tenderers upon the submission of a written application to the address below and upon payment of a non-refundable fee of LsL2, 000.00. The method of payment will be Cash at the Accounts Office at 1st Floor of the Ministry of Health Headquarters Corner of Constitution Road and Linare road Maseru. 6. Tenders must be delivered to the address below on or before1200 hours on the 17th January 2019. Electronic Tendering will not be permitted. Late Tenders will be rejected. Tenders will be publicly opened in the presence of the Tenderer s’ designated representatives and anyone who chooses to attend at the address below on 1430 hour on 17th January 2019. 7. MANDATORY DOCUMENTS All prospective bidders must attach to their bids the following documents: • Valid Trader’s license certified at source; • Valid Tax Clearance certified at source; • Refundable bid security of 1% of the bid price; and • Power of Attorney for the authorized signatory;
3. Tendering will be conducted through competitive procurement using Invitation for Tenders (IFT) as specified in the Lesotho “Public Procurement Regulations 2007” (“Public Procurement Regulations 2018 as amended” , and is open to all eligible Tenderers as defined in the Public Procurement Regulations. 4. Interested eligible Tenderers may obtain further information from the Ministry of Health Procurement Unit, and inspect the tender document during office hours from 09h00 to 16h30 (Local Time) from Monday to Friday. 5. The tender document in English may be purchased by
8. Disclaimer: The Ministry of Health reserves the right to cancel the tenders before the submission or opening of Tenders, postpone the tender submission/opening dates and to accept or reject any or all tenders. The Ministry is not bound to accept the lowest or any tender. 9.The address referred to above is; Procurement Unit Ministry of Health Corner of Constitution Road and Linare Road P.O. Box 514 Maseru 100 healthprocurementles@gmail.com
KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND CHIEFTAINSHIP BOTHA BOTHE DISTRICT COUNCIL INVITATION TO TENDER
TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF COMPUTERS
The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority invites Tenders from competent HP accredited dealers for the Supply and Delivery of Computers. Tender documents can be downloaded at www.lhwp.org.ls. SealedTenders clearly marked‘Supply and Delivery of Computers’, with the name of the bidder clearly stated should be deposited at Lesotho Highlands Development Authority Tender Box, 7th floor, LHDA Tower Building , Kingsway, Maseru not later than 12:00 hours on the 16th January 2019.
BID REF NO.: BBDC/LOG/11 PROJECT NAME: “SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF ROAD CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS FOR BOTHA BOTHE DISTRICT COUNCIL’S GRAVEL ROADS CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS” Tenders are invited from suitable locally eligible qualified companies for the supply and delivery of road construction material (gabions) and road construction equipment/machinery (2x vibrating rollers) for Botha Bothe District Council’s gravel roads construction projects. Tender documents are obtainable from the Procurement Unit, Botha Bothe District council’s procurement office LSPP Building, opposite Correctional services from the 16th November 2018 at a non-refundable fee of M2, 000.00 MANDATORY DOCUMENTS All prospective tenderers must attach to the tender the following documents: 1. Valid traders licence certified at source 2. Valid tax clearance certified at source 3. Power of attorney N.B. Additional requirements are specified in the tender document with the scope of work. Sealed bids bearing no identification of the bidder but clearly marked “SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF ROAD CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS FOR BOTHA BOTHE DISTRICT COUNCIL’S GRAVEL ROADS CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS”.’’ Should be deposited at the tender box situated at Botha Bothe District council procurement unit LSPP Building opposite correctional services on or before the 03rd January 2019 at 12:00 noon. Bids will be opened on the same day at 12:30 pm. N.B. Non-compliance to the requirements of the tender will result in a disqualification of a tender EVALUATION CRITERIA Preference margin Relevant experience Technical & Financial capability
Activity ITT Issued Deadline for Clarifications ITT Close Tender opening date Evaluation Contract award
Dates 16/11/2018 29/12/2018 03/01/2019 at 12:00noon 03/01/2019 at 12:30pm 07-09/01/2019 04/02/2019
DISCLAIMER Botha Bothe District council also reserves the right to cancel the tenders before submission/opening of tenders, postpone the tender submission/opening date and to accept/reject any or all tenders without assigning any reasons thereof. The council is not bound to accept the lowest or any bid. For more information, contact Procurement Unit at the following numbers: +266 58100323/68653106
Public Eye 8
Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018 27
WorkplaceNews & Careers
Friday December 14, 2018
KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL: VALUATION OF ASSET Proposal No.SJH 11/18 St. Joseph’s Hospital invites proposal from indigenous Basotho Registered Companies with five years’ experience in the valuation industry for valuation of its Assets. The successful bidder will compile Fixed Asset Register of four Health Centres, Hospital and College complaint with Accounting Standard. The compulsory debriefing will be 11th January 2019 at 10:30 at the Hospital Boardroom. The deadline for the submission of the tenders is Thursday 31st January 2019 at 10:00 AM. Tenders shall be opened the same day at 10:30 AM. Submissions should be hand delivered. THE ST JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ACCEPT OR REJECT ANY TENDER WITHOUT ASSIGNING ANY REASONS AND NOT BOUND TO ACCEPT ANY TENDER WITH THE LOWEST PRICE.
MINISTRY OF SMALL BUSINESS, COOPERATIVES AND MARKETING
TENDER NOTICE Tenders are hereby invited from local consortia of Consultants comprising an Architect, Civil/Structural Engineer, Electrical/ Mechanical/ Building Services Engineer and Quantity Surveyor, who are listed with Building Design Services of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to submit technical and financial proposal for: DESIGN AND SUPERVISION OF CONSTRUCTION FOR PROPOSED CHICKEN SLAUGHTER HOUSE AND PIGGERY SLAUGHTER HOUSE FOR MINISTRY OF SMALL BUSINESS, COOPERATIVES AND MARKETING, HA FOSO. A preference margin shall be granted in accordance with the Lesotho Procurement Regulations 2007 clause 12 (1), (2) and (3) NB: All potential Consultants are advised to note that Consulting Firms to Lesotho Government are expected to be in compliance with their tax obligations. Consultant must attach to their bids, valid copies of Tax Clearance FEES ADJUSTMENT Fees shall be adjusted proportionally to project Contract Sum/Final Account by using (the Scale of Fees for latest or 2018 approved by Government of Republic of South Africa for Consulting). REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Request for Proposals and related documents for respective consulting services will be available for collection from the office of Procurement Unit, 1st Floor of Ministry of Public Works and Transport Headquarters (Roads Headquarters), Corner, SENATE and LEPOQO Roads, opposite Browns Cash and Carry at a non-refundable amount of M5,000.00 (Five Thousand Maloti only). DATE AND TIME FOR COLLECTING TERMS OF REFERENCE AND RELATED DOCUMENTS Request for Proposals and related documents will be available for collection from 10th December 2018, between 0900hrs to 1500hrs. MANDATORY SITE VISIT The Mandatory site visit will be conducted on Wednesday 19th December 2018 from 1000-1100hrs. All Bidders are expected to assemble at Khubetsoana next to Meraka National Abattoir, Main North at 0930hrs COMPULSORY QUESTION AND ANSWER SESSION A Compulsory question and answer session will be held in the Conference Room of Building Design Services (BDS) 3rd floor Moshoeshoe Road, Industrial Area, on 20th December 2018 as follows: DATE AND TIME FOR SUBMISSIONS The submission One (1) Original and 4 (Four) copies of both Technical and Financial proposal in the sealed envelopes separately marked technical and Financial enclosed in a big envelope marked PROPOSAL BIDS FOR PROPOSED NEW CONSTRUCTIONS OF CHICKEN SLAUGHTER HOUSE AND PIGGERY SLAUGHTER HOUSE FOR MINISTRY OF SMALL BUSINESS, COOPERATIVES AND MARKETING, HA FOSO must be deposited in the tender box 1st Floor Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Corner. Lepoqo and Senate Roads, opposite Browns Cash and Carry on Wednesday, 16th January, 2019 on or before 1200hrs for public opening at 1215 hrs the same day. The Government of Lesotho reserves the right to accept or reject any or all tenders/bids. ______________ Principal Secretary Government of Lesotho – Ministry of Public Works and Transport
INVITATION TO TENDER FOR TENDER FOR LEASING AND SERVICING OF PHOTOCOPIER MACHINES REF: LEC/PO-890/2018/19 The Lesotho Electricity Company (Pty) Ltd invites sealed bids from eligible bidders to tender for leasing and servicing of heavy-duty photocopier machines. 1. Tendering companies should have the following documents: • Company Registration Certificate • Tax Clearance Certificates • Traders License
INVITATION TO TENDER FOR TENDER FOR SUPPLY OF LEC GENTLEMEN CORPORATE UNIFORM REF: LEC/PO-888/2018/19 The Lesotho Electricity Company (Pty) Ltd invites sealed bids from eligible bidders for supply of gentleman LEC corporate uniform. 1. Tendering companies should have the following documents: • Company Registration Certificate • Tax Clearance Certificates • Traders License
2. Purchasing the document and Bid security The tenderer shall be expected to pay M2000.00 (Two Thousand Maloti) for purchasing the document and M5000.00 (Five Thousand Maloti) for bid security in the form of a bank guaranteed cheque.
2. Purchasing the document and Bid security The tenderer shall be expected to pay M2000.00 (Two Thousand Maloti) for purchasing the document and M5000.00 (Five Thousand Maloti) for bid security in the form of a bank guaranteed cheque.
3.Tender not binding LEC will not be obliged to accept the lowest-priced or any other tender.
3.Tender not binding
Sealed tenders clearly marked “Tender for Leasing and Servicing of Photocopier Machines’’ bearing no identification of the Tenderer, must be deposited in a tender box located at the LEC Management Block Reception, Headquarters on or before 24th January 2019 at 14:15hrs pm. Tenders will be opened on the same day at 14:15hrs. Bidders or their representatives may attend the opening.
Sealed tenders clearly marked “Tender for Supply of LEC Gentlemen Corporate Uniform’’ bearing no identification of the Tenderer, must be deposited in a tender box located at the LEC Management Block Reception, Headquarters on or before 18th January
4. Compulsory Tender Briefing Session Tenderers are hereby informed that there will be a compulsory briefing session on the 11th January at 12H00pm at LEC Training Centre, Maseru. (Tenderers to note that no proposal will be accepted from Bidders that did not attend the compulsory briefing session) 5. For further enquiries contact Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information from Procurement offices at: Lesotho Electricity Company (Pty) Ltd. 53 Moshoeshoe Road, Industrial Area, P.O. Box 423, Maseru, 100, Lesotho
LEC will not be obliged to accept the lowest-priced or any other tender.
2019 at 14:15hrs pm. Tenders will be opened on the same day at 14:15hrs. Bidders or their representatives may attend the opening. 4. Compulsory Tender Briefing Session Tenderers are hereby informed that there will be a compulsory briefing session on the 8th January at 10H00pm at LEC Training Centre, Maseru. (Tenderers to note that no proposal will be accepted from Bidders that did not attend the compulsory briefing session). 5. For further enquiries contact Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information from Procurement offices at: Lesotho Electricity Company (Pty) Ltd. 53 Moshoeshoe Road, Industrial Area, P.O. Box 423, Maseru, 100, Lesotho
Tel: +266 5227 2127, 5227 2219, 5227 2184, 5227 2181 Fax: +266 2232 7647
Tel: +266 5227 2127, 5227 2219, 5227 2184, 5227 2181 Fax: +266 2232 7647
A complete set of bidding documents is available from Procurement Office
A complete set of bidding documents is available from Procurement Office.
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Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018
Business News Public Eye
Workplace&Careers
Friday December 14, 2018
130 GRADUATE FROM DONA@BALOS THATO RAMAFU MASERU - Last Friday, the popular local school for chefs, Dona@Balos, certified 130 graduates opening rare career opportunities for young Basotho at a time when many regular tertiary graduates are struggling to secure jobs. Observers say the hospitality field can become a viable route for future generations, especially if authorities grow Lesotho tourism to enable the sector to make an optimal contribution to the economy. With incredible uniqueness such as breathtaking landscape, clean air and water and a unique culture amongst a welleducated populace, many observers say the ingredients for tourism development are plentiful. Given the college’s wide exposure to international chefs and competitions, graduates from Dona@Balos can comfortably seek employment beyond the country’s borders.
Chef Donald
Maneo Ntene- deputy Ps ministry of tourism giving Awards
Chef Donald giving the speech
Graduates
Graduates parents
Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018 29
Global Sport News
Title winners too ‘rotten to the core’ M
anchester United have played 207 Premier League matches since legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson retired at the end of the 2012-2013 season. Now, for the fourth time in less than six years, they are looking for a new manager. It is a remarkable situation given United used to be the template for longevity - the club having stood by Ferguson in the tough times to be repaid by a trophy-laden 26-year tenure the likes of which had never been seen before. Under Ferguson, the game changed, the world changed, but because United were winning, the club didn’t. Only in recent times has the unintended consequence of those glorious Ferguson years become apparent. That quote about the scale of the task of reshaping United post-Ferguson has been said to me several times - from the highest levels of the club. Is the revolving managerial door a consequence of deeprooted problems within the club that made it impossible for Mourinho, Louis van Gaal and David Moyes to succeed? If it is, the appointment of the club’s first technical director - and not manager - is United’s biggest decision in the coming months. A club too big for one man? When Ferguson left United, it appeared they were in a healthy state. T h ey h a d j u st wo n t h e Premier League by 11 points, two seasons after reaching their third Champions League final in four years. As it turned out, those successes - and Ferguson’s brilliance - masked structural issues that meant when the Scot was no longer in charge, the club was ill-equipped to operate at the highest level in the modern era. There is a recognition within Old Trafford that Moyes was doomed to failure as the support mechanisms required for such a role were simply not there. The football side was too big for one man to deal with alone. Scouting had fallen way behind for a start. One issue United still wrestle with is Manchester City’s willingness to put all scholars in their academy through private schooling, something that continues even after players have been released. There could be no more damning evidence of United lagging behind in youth development than both Wayne Rooney and Darren Fletcher sending their children to City because they believed their potential careers would be better served away from the club where they enjoyed the best years of
Where did it all go wrong for Man United
Ferguson won 38 trophies in his 26 years as manager at Manchester United
their career. Rooney is known to have made his feelings about the ridiculousness of the situation clear to Woodward before he left for Everton in 2017. What responsibility does ‘naive’ Woodward have? The club have pinned the blame for Mourinho’s exit squarely on him - highlighting his style, disharmony with the playing squad, lack of youth development and failure to embrace United’s core values. But is it all his fault? United did not just lose their most successful manager in 2013, they also lost a wellrespected chief executive. David Gill remains a regular at matches - he was part of the United delegation at Anfield on Sunday - but the big decision-maker at Old Trafford is Ed Woodward. T r u s te d by t h e G l a z e r family for driving through their controversial takeover in 2005, the former investment banker has been described as “naive” by former United captain Gary Neville. Aside from presiding over three failed managerial appointments - Gill was fortunate in that he never had to make one - Woodward is regularly accused of caring too much about the club’s commercial arm and not knowing enough about football. In May, Woodward raised eyebrows when he said results on the pitch had little impact on finances.
Jose Mourinho signed Paul Pogba for a club record £89m from Juventus
Neville is among many to question why the 47-yearold improved and extended Mourinho’s contract in January then, in July, blocked the Portuguese’s attempts to sign a new centre-back. “Who in that football club is qualified to tell Jose Mourinho he cannot sign a centre-back?” said Neville in October. “The club is rotten to the core and it has to be coming from the top.” A squad ‘built’ by four different managers United did not introduce a d i re c to r o f fo o t ba l l wh e n Ferguson was in charge. In truth, there was no point. Why would anyone want to curb the power of the most successful manager there has ever been? It is only now, three failed
managerial appointments later, United are committed to bring in someone to oversee recruitment, to ensure a consistent thread runs through the club so they do not spend their money haphazardly on players who fit no pattern. Mourinho used 14 players at Liverpool on Sunday. Two were home-grown, the remaining 12 bought by four different managers. Those who have a deep knowledge of the modern game, and United’s place within it, have felt for a while the situation must be addressed as a matter of urgency. The manager’s voice should, ideally, be a strong one within the process of player recruitment but neutral observers feel there has to be some additional expertise to identify options
to f it a general philosophy, so situations such as the one United now find themselves in can be avoided. Whoever the new manager turns out to be, he will inherit a squad that is the remnants of the personal choices of Ferguson, Moyes, Van Gaal and Mourinho. Little wonder, therefore, that while title favourites Manchester City and Liverpool have put their squads together with an overall plan, there appears little coherence about United’s. Alexis Sanchez is an obvious and recent example, being bought when there was no real need, succeeding only in blocking a first-team place and doing very little to justify it. For Sanchez, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku, United invested nearly £200m and pay about £1m a week in wages. In an important Champions League group game against Young Boys last month, none of the three started, despite all being fit. Sanchez did not even make the bench. A flawed youth system? Much is made of Chelsea’s youth policy and the lack of first-team players that have emerged from five successive FA Youth Cupwinning squads. Question marks are also being raised at Manchester City - and that criticism will only grow should a route not be found for the hugely talented, localborn City fan Phil Foden to fulfil his potential at a club he has been at since primary school. But both Chelsea (at Vitesse Arnhem) and City (through their link with Spanish club Girona - owned by Pep Guardiola’s brother Pere) have European options for youngsters not quite ready to break into their firstteam squads. United no longer send players to Royal Antwerp, as was the case with John O’Shea and others, so are reliant on individual loan deals for their rising stars, or hope they come through the Premier League’s under-23 and under-18 competitions. Ye t U n i t e d ’s a c a d e m y director Nicky Butt has described the under-23 league as not being fit for purpose, and their relegation to Division Two last season is evidence they do not view the competition as a useful breeding ground. Woodward saw evidence with his own eyes that the situation is improving when United beat Chelsea, winners for the past five seasons, in the FA Youth Cup on Monday. In Mason Greenwood and Jimmy Garner they have two teenagers seemingly destined for the top of the game. But it has taken time and, apart from Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard, home-grown players have not made the breakthrough in recent years.
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Public Eye
Friday December 21, 2018
Sport News From The Terraces
Out of respect I won’t comment: Mourinho Jose Mourinho says he will not be talking about his departure from Manchester United out of the “deepest respect” for his former colleagues. The Portuguese was sacked on Tuesday this week after two and a half years in charge. United are sixth in the Premier League, 19 points behind leaders Liverpool. “I have been immensely proud to wear the badge of Manchester United since the first day I arrived, and I believe all United fans recognise this,” Mourinho said in a statement. “Each time a chapter is closed, I show my deepest respect by not making any comments about my former colleagues.” Former United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was named the club’s caretaker manager until the end of the season on Wednesday. Mourinho has gone back to his home in London, and the former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss has also asked the media to respect his privacy before he returns to football. Speaking to Sky Sports News earlier on Wednesday, he said: “I was always very critical of managers that leave clubs and then they come out and they speak about the details of what happened, who is to blame. “I could speak about the not-sogood, but that’s not me. “Until I get back to football, I feel I have the right to live my normal life. “Manchester United has a future without me and I have a future without Manchester United.” Mourinho’s statement in full I have been immensely proud to wear the badge of Manchester United since the first day I arrived, and I believe all United supporters recognise this. Just as was the case with my previous clubs, I have worked with some wonderful people and I believe that some will be my friends for life. I know that you are all aware of my professional principles. Each time a chapter is closed I show my deepest respect and I don’t make any comments about my former colleagues. I hope the media will also respect my position and let me live my normal life until the moment I decide to return to football. Merry Christmas. Players react United midfielder Jesse Lingard was the first player to post a message to Mourinho on social media. “Thank you for the memories and wisdom,” he wrote on Twitter. Centre-back Eric Bailly said: “Whatever they may say, I will always be thankful to the person who gave me the chance to make my debut at Old Trafford. “Thank you for what you have taught me. Good luck, coach.” – bbc.com
Chess talent unearthed NAPO LEKHOOANA
M
ASERU – Unlike in the past, the number of competitive chess players is growing faster demonstrating there is wide, untapped talent among Basotho. In an interview with Public Eye, Chess Federation of Lesotho (CFL) spokesperson, Khiba Selatela, following the recent National Chess Championship held at Good Night Lodge, Maseru, last Saturday and Sunday, said big things await local champions. He d i sc l os e d t h e to u r n a m e n t ’s champion would also get a ticket to represent the country in the Africa Amateur Chess Championships to be held in Namibia from December 30 to 7 January next year. Sechaba Khalema won the tournament after a crushing his opponents in five out of six games and, according to Selatela, the player is now the centre of attraction set to represent Lesotho in several competitions. The spokesperson said Lesotho now has an incredible number of chess enthusiasts who are keen on participating in all contests available. He further noted many players have adequate experience having acquired significant skills from Europe. “A number of times we have been able to send our players to Europe under the auspices of World Chess Federation to learn
Currently Lesotho has more than 500 chess players which signifies promising growth of the sport more about the sport since 2014. “That enabled us to have players with broad experience. Besides, we have players who participated in numerous international games. Apparently this is an indication that we are steadily developing unlike before 2014 when we had a few incompetent players who would solely play for fun,” Selatela added. Currently Lesotho has more than 500 chess players which signifies promising
growth of the sport. Of these more than 100 players have international ratings while four others have obtained chess titles. “We are hopeful that in a few years our sport will be rated higher because the players we have in the development category have proven brilliance in chess. “ We o f t e n h o s t s c h o o l c h e s s tournaments which is where we observe a young intelligent generation that is mastering chess,” he concluded.
Missy Franklin retires, saying ‘I’m ready not to be in pain every day’
Missy Franklin won four gold medals at the 2012 London Olympic Games as a 17-year-old
Five-time Olympic champion Missy Franklin has announced her retirement from swimming aged 23, saying she is “ready not to be in pain every day”. The American won four gold medals at London 2012 as a 17-year-old amateur. But a shoulder injury and issues including depression have affected her since, and she is “ready” to retire. In a letter to ESPN, Franklin wrote: “I began to realise that my greatest dream in life, more so than Olympic gold, has always been becoming a mom.” She became the first woman to win six golds at a single World Championships in 2013 and was named Laureus Sportswoman of the Year in 2014. Franklin won her London 2012 golds in the 100m backstroke, 200m backstroke, 4x200m freestyle relay and 4x100m medley relay, adding a bronze in the 4x100m freestyle relay. She retires with 11 world
golds in total. In the letter, Franklin said swimming was her “first love” and the first 18 years were “picture perfect”, adding: “The equation couldn’t have made more sense you work hard, you have a positive attitude, you show up every day, give your best, and you get faster.” However, she began to battle physical and mental issues before the 2016 Rio Olympics. Franklin added: “I’ve been very open about what I went through as I prepared for the Olympics in 2016. The struggles I endured included shoulder pain whenever I tried to train or compete, depression, anxiety and insomnia. “I trained through it all - both the physical and emotional pain - and did everything I possibly could have to keep my head held high. “Looking back, surviving through
those eight days in Rio was the greatest accomplishment of my career.” She another Olympic gold in 2016 in the 4x200m freestyle relay for appearing in the heats, but had surgery on both shoulders in January and February 2017. After the operations, the Californian was receiving physical therapy multiple times a week, before going through rounds of cortisone injections and an ultrasound bicep tendon injection to help relieve the pain “but nothing was working”. Franklin’s letter ended: “It took me a long time to say the words, ‘I am retiring.’ A long, long time. But now I’m ready. “I’m ready to not be in pain every day. I’m ready to become a wife and, one day, a mother. “I’m ready to continue growing each and every day to be the best person and role model I can be. I’m ready for the rest of my life.”-bbc
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Friday December 21, 2018 31
Sport News
Taekwondo coach leaves in a huff . . . LTA blames house breaking incidents NTHAKO MAJORO MASERU - Former Lesotho Taekwondo Association (LTA) president, Moshoeshoe Molapo, has questioned why the current administration of LTA has remained mum about the departure of taekwondo trainer, Du-kwhi Lee. The South Korean taekwondo mentor is said to have left unceremoniously at the beginning of this month. His departure follows after his wife and child left six months ealier, claiming they were no longer safe in Lesotho. According to LTA’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Sek’hok’he Molikoe, Lee’s family belongings were stolen from their official residence in Maseru on a series of occasions, which was why they left. Public Eye has also been informed that Lee has since landed another trainer’s position in Georgia. Molapo, who is also the president of the Confederation of Southern Africa Taekwondo Association (COSATA), said Lee had been expected to be in the country until after the 2024 Olympic Games. The Southern Africa taekwondo boss said Lesotho had a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of South Korea that Lee would serve as Lesotho’s taekwondo coach for 10 years. “When I left (LTA’s presidency last year) we had an MoU which clearly stipulated that Lee would serve as Lesotho’s national taekwondo coach for 10 years,” Molapo said in an exclusive interview with Public Eye. He further explained: “He
Some of Lesotho former senior Taekwondo players demostrate during the World Taekwondo Peace Corp Day in Maseru some years ago
arrived in Lesotho in 2014, meaning he was supposed to be in the country until 2024, and the MoU was signed in consideration of the upcoming 2020 and 2024 Olympic Games.” Molapo also said when Lee arrived in the country he was introduced to the public by the sports minister at a press conference, likewise he was expecting the same thing when he left. “But instead of informing the public that Lee has left, the administration of LTA keeps quiet about it, which is something that leaves much to be desired,” Molapo said. On the contrary, Molikoe
said another reason why Lee has left was because his contract was over. He, however, reiterated that the main reason behind his departure was due to security reasons. “His contract has expired, hence why he left,” Molikoe said. “But the main reason why he left was because he felt unsafe after the incidents where he experienced house breaking and his belongings stolen from his residence in Hills View and Maseru West, in succession.” Molikoe said Lee’s family was moved from Hills View to Maseru West in the hope that
things would be different but he still continued to be the target of thieves. Apart from that, Molikoe said Lee had tried his best to improve their players’ level of skills so his presence counted a lot in the development of taekwondo in the country. “To be honest, we still needed him because he was a good coach. His presence in the country was important in that we used to get taekwondo equipment from South Korea which we doubt we would continue getting in his absence.” Molikoe said they would have to make a new proposal for another coach from South Korea but cautioned that could
not happen soon enough. “Yes, we will have to make a proposal for another coach from South Korea but not now. “It is because we will first have to ensure that our security is good enough for any foreign coach to come and stay in Lesotho,” Molikoe said. Lee was paid by his country while Lesotho only paid for his rent. He was not the first taekwondo trainer from South Korea to Lesotho as before him there was another trainer by also the name of Lee in 90s. In those years Lesotho was among the best taekwondo playing countries on the African continent.
Hat-trick hero Bale fires Real Madrid into Club World Cup final Gareth Bale scored a hat-trick as Real Madrid beat Japan’s Kashima Antlers 3-1 on Wednesday to book a spot in the Club World Cup Final. European champions Real will play host side Al Ain FC in Saturday’s final in Abu Dhabi as they bid to win the title for the third year in a row. Kashima almost made a dream start inside two minutes with a close-range shot from Serginho that was saved by Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Bale (pictured) opened the scoring in the 44th minute with a left-foot strike into the bottom
corner of the net after playing a one-two with Marcelo. Bale struck his second in the 53rd minute, taking advantage of a defensive mix-up that left the Kashima goal wide open, and the Wales forward made it 3-0 to the Spanish side two minutes later with a left-foot shot into the top corner. Bale has now scored six goals in the tournament, trailing only his former team mate Cristiano Ronaldo who has netted seven. “He (Bale) played a superb match,” Real coach Santiago Solari told reporters. “He has shown what he is, and what he can do.”
Bale was substituted in the 60th minute only for his replacement, Asensio to be forced off 14 minutes later due to injury. “I hope it is not a serious problem with him because it is very that important all the players are fit,” Solari said. “It is a pity that he had to leave the pitch today.” Asian champions Kashima grabbed a consolation goal in the 78th minute through Shoma Doi. Kashima, third in the J-League, will meet South American champions River Plate in the third-place playoff earlier on Saturday.
Sport Public Eye
There’s someone to rely on in Lesotho
Friday December 21, 2018
Bale fires R Madrid into Club World Cup final
Lesotho’s athletes and administrators in a photo shoot before they left for the previous Region 5 Games
Leaner team costs Lesotho medals NTHAKO MAJORO
M
ASERU - Lesotho’s dismal performance at the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Under-20 Youth Games has been blamed on poor preparations and fielding fewer athletes than originally planned. During this year’s region 5 competitions, which were held in Gaborone, Botswana from December 6 to 16, Lesotho collected 13 medals, the same number it garnered from the previous games which took place in Luanda, Angola in 2016. But now the difference is in the number of gold medals, with the Mountain Kingdom this time around winning only four compared to six which the country won from the Luanda games. Lesotho also at that time won four silver and three bronze, while from Gaborone the Mountain Kingdom won three silver and six bronze medals. This was despite high hopes
that Lesotho, being the next host of the games in 2020, would put up a better performance than ever before. According to Retšelisitsoe Lephaila, who is the former Lesotho chef de Mission to the Region 5 Games (in 2016), among other contributing factors to Lesotho’s dismal performance at this year’s competition was the limited number of athletes it fielded due to budget cuts. Lesotho was initially supposed to send more than 200 athletes to the Gaborone games, but the number was later trimmed down to 90. “I think our poor performance had something to do with the small delegation we sent for the games,” said Lephaila in an interview with Public Eye yesterday. Lephaila further noted: “This is because when you compete with a small number of athletes, your chances of winning many medals are very slim, unlike when you compete with a big number of athletes.”
Lephaila also said another contributing factor was the fact that Lesotho had to compromise in order to comply with the rules and regulations of the competition when it came to gender balance. “The rules and regulations of Region 5 required its competing countries to make sure that there is a gender balance in their teams for the games. “That is why Lesotho sent its ladies soccer team to the games instead of sending a boys team, who I know for sure could have won a medal, even gold,” Lephaila said. Lephaila said for the past five years Lesotho was dominating in the Confederation of Schools Sports Association of Southern Africa (COSSASA) Games in boys’ soccer. “So my point exactly is that if we competed with the boys’ soccer team it would be much better,” Lephaila said. He further noted: “You can also see that another reason why Lesotho again chose to compete
with a ladies netball team was because of the gender balance requirement, not because of merit.” Lesotho’s dismal performance can also be blamed on poor preparation prior to the Gaborone games, something which was never a secret as it was confirmed by both the Lesotho Sports and Recreation Commission (LSRC)’s Chief Executive Officer Mofihli Makoele and they LSRC’s President Khiba Mohoanyane. Mohoanyane announced that at a send-off ceremony for Team Lesotho which was held at the Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena, while Makoele said the same in an interview with Public Eye days before the sent-off ceremony. Even if Makoele and Mohoanyane were not be believed at the time but the signs were there for everyone to see. The performance of ’Maqabang Tsibela and Tšepang Maqaleha has justified their
statements. Lesotho’s duo could not shine as before in Luanda where Tsibela won two gold medals in the women’s category; one in 1500m and another in 3000m, and Maqaleha with gold and silver in 10 000m and 3000m respectively. Tsibela this time around snatched only one gold in 3000m and bronze in 1500m, while likewise Maqaleha managed two - a single gold in 10 000m and silver in 3000m. Other athletes who have contributed to Lesotho’s medal tally despite poor preparation are tennis starlet Nyathi Motlojoa who brought home bronze, and Phomolo Lengola who clinched another bronze in boxing. Two other gold medals came courtesy of Paralympic athlete, Mosiuoa Ramotsieloa in men T13 800m and 1500m. All of Lesotho’s 13 medals have been won by individual athletes, 10 of them from athletics.