MASERU — Lesotho’s Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Sam Matekane, is the central decision-making body responsible for running government and implementing national policy. Comprising senior ministers drawn from across government portfolios, the Cabinet determines how public funds are allocated, how services are delivered, and how the country responds to economic and social challenges.

The current Cabinet brings together ministries responsible for finance, health, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and national security, among others. Their collective decisions shape the daily lives of Basotho and define the country’s long-term direction.

Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister

At the helm is Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and National Security Sam Matekane, who leads government operations and oversees national security.

Supporting him is Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Justice Nthomeng Majara, whose role includes coordinating government business in Parliament and supporting the legislative agenda.

Finance and Economic Ministries

The management of Lesotho’s economy rests primarily with Minister of Finance and Development Planning Dr Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane, who is responsible for the national budget, fiscal policy, and economic planning.

Other key economic portfolios include:

• Minister of Trade, Industry and Small Business Development Mokhethi Shelile

• Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition Thabo Mofosi

• Minister of Natural Resources and acting Minister of Energy Mohlomi Moleko

• Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture Motlatsi Maqelepo

These ministries play a central role in supporting business activity, agriculture, tourism, and resource management.

Infrastructure and Service Delivery

Infrastructure development and service delivery fall under several ministries, including:

• Minister of Public Works and Transport Neo Matjato Moteane

• Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police Lebona Lephema

These ministries oversee roads, energy supply, policing, and local governance structures.

Social and Human Development Ministries

Several ministries focus on education, health, and social welfare:

• Minister of Education and Training Dr Ntoi Rapapa

• Minister of Health Selibe Mochoboroane

• Minister of Labour and Employment Tšeliso Mokhosi

• Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development Pitso Lesaoana

Their responsibilities include schools, healthcare services, employment regulation, and social programmes.

Governance, Justice and Administration

Government administration and legal affairs are handled by:

• Minister of Law and Justice Richard Ramoeletsi

• Minister of Public Service Mputi Mputi

• Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Limpho Tau

These ministries oversee legal systems, civil service operations, and executive coordination.

Environment, Technology and International Relations

Other important portfolios include:

• Minister of Environment and Forestry Letsema Adontsi

• Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation Nthati Moorosi

• Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Lejone Mpotjoane

These ministries focus on environmental protection, technology development, and international diplomacy.

The Role of Cabinet in Lesotho’s Governance

Cabinet ministers are responsible for implementing government policy through their respective ministries. They oversee public programmes, manage government departments, and present legislation and policy proposals.

Their work affects key areas such as:

• Public spending

• Service delivery

• Economic policy

• Infrastructure development

• Education and healthcare

As Lesotho continues to address economic pressures and social needs, the performance of Cabinet and its ministries remains central to the country’s governance and development.