Weekly Observer

The Millennium Challenge Account–Lesotho II (MCA-Lesotho II) has confirmed the termination of the Lesotho Health and Horticulture Compact, following a 90-day U.S. foreign assistance review prompted by an executive order from President Donald Trump in January 2025.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) officially notified the Government of Lesotho on November 19, 2025, initiating a 30-day notice period, followed by a 120-day wind-down process.

While acknowledging the challenges this may pose, MCA-Lesotho II expresses gratitude to the Government of Lesotho, MCC, and other partners for their support. The Government of Lesotho has committed to continue key programme components, with preparations already at an advanced stage.

Stakeholders and the Basotho public are urged to stay united, and regular updates will be provided throughout the transition.

Lesotho Launches BIOFIN to Strengthen Biodiversity Financing and Sustainable Development

Maseru, December 15, 2025 — The Ministry of Environment and Forestry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has officially launched the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) in Lesotho, marking a significant step toward strengthening the country’s approach to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

BIOFIN is a global programme designed to assist countries in identifying, mobilising and sustainably managing financial resources needed to protect biodiversity and enhance ecosystem resilience. In Lesotho, the initiative will play a critical role in supporting the implementation of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan III (NBSAP III) by helping to address the country’s biodiversity financing gap.

The launch event outlined the objectives, key activities and expected outcomes of the BIOFIN Lesotho Project (2024–2028). These include conducting policy and institutional assessments, biodiversity expenditure reviews and financial needs analyses, as well as developing a National Biodiversity Finance Plan. The initiative is also expected to strengthen national capacity to integrate biodiversity priorities into planning and budgeting processes across key sectors.

Officially opening the event, the Minister of Environment and Forestry, Honourable Letsema Adontši, described the launch as a major milestone in Lesotho’s efforts to secure sustainable financing for biodiversity conservation. He emphasised the importance of positioning biodiversity as a central pillar of national development.

In his remarks, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, Mr Taye Amsalu, underscored the close link between biodiversity, sustainable development and the well-being of the Basotho people. He noted that livelihoods, development pathways and resilience to climate-related shocks are all closely tie