Maseru – Lesotho has once again passed the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Scorecard, improving its performance from 15 indicators last year to 17 out of 20 in 2024—a 10% increase.
The results were announced during a public event on Tuesday this week, attended by U.S. Embassy representatives, Deputy Prime Minister Nthomeng Majara, and members of the Prime Minister’s Cabinet.
Thomas Hines, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Maseru, commended Lesotho’s efforts, stating that the results reflect the nation’s dedication to strengthening democratic governance and fostering economic growth.
Notably, Lesotho made significant strides in key areas such as Girls’ Primary Education Completion Rate, Natural Resource Protection, Land Rights and Access, and Fiscal Policy. However, it slipped in Government Effectiveness and Freedom of Information.
“We commend the efforts underway to strengthen press freedom and the rule of law. Noting the decline in the control of corruption indicator, we will continue working with Lesotho to combat corruption,” Hines said.
He also acknowledged the country’s recent achievements in passing reforms on Inheritance, Labour Law, and Occupational Health and Safety Law, further bolstering the U.S.-Lesotho partnership.
Deputy Prime Minister Majara emphasized the government’s resolve to improve its performance, particularly in areas such as Trade Policy and Government Effectiveness, where there was a notable drop in the Freedom of Information score from 83% to 43%.
“Our commitment to fighting corruption is unwavering. We are working tirelessly to expose corrupt activities and keep the public sector accountable,” Majara said. She also highlighted the government’s focus on improving healthcare and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens.
Majara thanked the U.S. government for its unwavering support under the first compact, noting that the US$300 million health compact grant would play a crucial role in advancing Lesotho’s economic vision and addressing unemployment and poverty.
She called for continued collaboration to ensure the success of the compact for the benefit of all Basotho.
