1.5
Rationale for Lesotho’s ICT Policy
The dream of a prospering Lesotho, fully integrated in the global economy cannot be
realised without a well designed strategy. In order for Lesotho to seize and obtain
maximum benefits from the opportunities provided by ICTs, it needs a roadmap that
clearly defines what is to be done, when and how it will be done and who is going to do
it.
The Government having developed the Information and Communication Technology
(ICT) Policy as a tool to enable Lesotho to achieve its development goals as articulated in
the Lesotho Vision 2020 Policy Document and the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper is
now in a position to set up the appropriate institutional framework for policy formulation,
regulation and operations in the sector.
An ICT policy is needed to channel and mobilise the investment required to accomplish
its great ambitions. It is needed to provide guidance to lawmakers in their review of
existing laws and regulations and requisite changes, as well as in the development of new
legal instruments to support the transition to an information economy.
Therefore, the rationale for developing this ICT policy is based upon the need to:
•
Create a roadmap for ICT development, attract and mobilise internal and external
investment.
•
Co-ordinate the efforts of Government, the private sector, civil society and
individuals in order to ensure a shared vision for the ICT sector, avoid fragmentation
of resources and to maximise utilisation of scarce resources.
•
Ensure that Lesotho is a dynamic member of the global economy and Information
Society.
•
Guide the delivery and creation of electronic information across all sectors in order to
provide Government, individuals, the private sector and civil society with the
resources and tools needed to participate in the Global Information Society.
•
Stimulate the development of national infrastructure needed to support the delivery of
ICT services throughout the country and provide universal access to information and
knowledge.
ICT Policy for Lesotho
14