Maseru __ Following the presentation of the 2026/27 Budget Speech by the Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Dr. Rets'elisitsoe Matlanyane, on Wednesday, various government ministries, parastatals and private sector representatives convened to scrutinise the national budget and reflect on its implications for the country’s development trajectory.

The engagement session was organised by the Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL) in partnership with Nedbank Lesotho, bringing together key stakeholders to unpack the fiscal priorities outlined in the 2026/27 financial plan.

In his welcome remarks, the Managing Director of Nedbank Lesotho, Mr. Nkau Matete said that the current budget presentation calls for stronger collaboration in pursuit of a transformed and resilient Lesotho.

He emphasised that the country is at a critical juncture where bold action is required, noting that meaningful partnerships between the Government of Lesotho and the private sector are essential to stimulate economic growth and stability.

'It is time for decisive action and closer collaboration to build a resilient economy that benefits all Basotho,' he said, adding that strengthened cooperation would enhance investment, job creation and sustainable development.

Meanwhile, Ms. Nthabiseng Koatsa from the National University of Lesotho (NUL), who provided an analysis of the budget speech, described the 2026/27 fiscal plan as reflective of a year in which the nation is reassessing its priorities.

She noted that youth unemployment remains a pressing challenge and suggested that lessons could be drawn from previous labour migration frameworks used for mine workers to help address the issue.

Ms. Koatsa further commended the budget for tackling longstanding gaps, particularly in public service delivery, highlighting provisions for training public servants to enhance efficiency and performance.

She described the 2026/27 Budget as one of the most progressive in recent years, as it confronts issues that had previously received limited attention, signalling a renewed focus on accountability and improved service delivery.