Maseru __ The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) paid a courtesy call on King Letsie III at the Royal Palace in Matsieng on Monday.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has been instrumental in supporting Lesotho's development through various initiatives aimed at enhancing infrastructure, institutional capacity, and socio-economic growth.

In an interview with the Agency, the President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina said that the African Development Bank has been a big partner of Lesotho since 1973 until it started its official support in 1974.

He indicated that by far about 87 projects amounting to atleast $29 million have been successfully implemented in Lesotho adding that there are an additional 8 projects intended to be out in place which are valued at $60 million.

Dr. Adesina mentioned that the African Development Bank is however looking into investing over $330 million in support of projects of electricity, agriculture, climate resilience projects and water access across the country.

He added that the African Development Bank with the request from King Letsie III will also look into paying attention to other sectors such as primary health care and universal access to electricity for Basotho.

He also highlighted that the African Development Bank will be offering Lesotho with technical assistance towards the successful implementation of wind solar investment and a successful water transitional projects between Lesotho, Botswana and South Africa.

Meanwhile, Dr. Adesina highlighted the importance of attracting foreign investment as well as the successful implementation of bankable projects.

The AfDB has provided support from the Africa Climate Change Fund (ACCF) to help Lesotho adapt to climate change impacts. This assistance has facilitated the design of adaptation activities using the Local Climate Adaptive Living Facility (LoCAL), which channels financing to local governments for community-led adaptation projects.

In partnership with Lesotho’s government, the AfDB launched the Remote Appraisal, Supervision, Monitoring, and Evaluation (RASME) initiative. This ICT-based project enhances transparency and accountability by enabling remote data collection and analysis for development projects.

The AfDB approved a $86.72 million loan to co-finance the second phase of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. This project aims to supply water to South Africa’s Gauteng region and generate hydroelectric power for Lesotho, bolstering water security and energy production.

Through the Economic Diversification Support Project (EDSP), the AfDB supports Lesotho’s efforts to revamp its economy by focusing on private sector development. The project aligns with the country’s strategy to promote infrastructure development and institutional capacity building.

The Institutional Support Project for Debt and Expenditure Management (ISPDEM) aims to promote sustainable public debt management and efficient use of public resources. By strengthening government capacity in these areas, the project contributes to fiscal consolidation and macroeconomic stability.

The AfDB has engaged with Lesotho’s civil society organizations (CSOs) to shape its new country strategy. CSOs have called for increased support through aid and capacity-building initiatives, emphasizing the need for collaborative engagement and dedicated resources to strengthen their capacities.