Technology in Lesotho: The Current State of the Digital Revolution

The Changing Face of Technology in Lesotho

Technology in Lesotho is no longer limited to computers, telecommunications and basic internet access. The country is gradually developing a broader digital economy in which mobile services, digital payments, software, e-commerce, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and online public services are becoming increasingly important.

The latest available digital figures provide an interesting picture. DataReportal estimates that Lesotho had approximately 2.20 million mobile connections in October 2025, equivalent to 92.7% of the population. At the same time, around 1.14 million people were using the internet, representing an internet penetration rate of approximately 48%.

This shows both the progress and the challenge facing the country: mobile connectivity is relatively widespread, but roughly half of the population was still offline according to the latest available figures.

Mobile Connectivity Is Driving Digital Adoption

For many Basotho, the mobile phone is the primary gateway to the internet. Mobile connectivity has expanded considerably, while broadband-capable networks now represent the overwhelming majority of mobile connections. DataReportal reports that approximately 94% of mobile connections in late 2025 could be considered broadband connections through 3G, 4G or 5G technologies.

The Lesotho Communications Authority also reported growth in broadband penetration, reaching approximately 75 broadband users per 100 people during the 2024/25 period when fixed and mobile broadband are considered together.

However, connectivity should not be confused with meaningful digital access. A person may technically have network coverage but still struggle to afford sufficient data, own a capable smartphone, access reliable electricity or develop the digital skills necessary to benefit from online services.

This distinction will be increasingly important as Lesotho moves toward a more digital economy.

The Digital Divide Remains One of Lesotho's Biggest Challenges

One of the biggest issues facing technology development in Lesotho is the digital divide between people who can participate fully in the digital economy and those who cannot. Although internet usage has increased over the years, the latest figures indicate that approximately 52% of the population remained offline at the end of 2025.

The problem is even more significant when considering the differences between urban and rural communities.

Lesotho's mountainous geography makes infrastructure development expensive and complicated. Communities in remote and mountainous areas can face greater challenges in accessing reliable telecommunications infrastructure, electricity, devices, technical support and affordable internet.

Fixed broadband is another area where the country remains behind. A recent United Nations review noted that fixed broadband subscriptions remained around 0.4 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants, highlighting the country's strong dependence on mobile connectivity.

Closing this divide will require more than simply expanding network coverage. Digital inclusion must also involve affordable devices, lower connectivity costs, digital literacy, electricity infrastructure and locally relevant online services.

Fintech and Mobile Money Are Among the Strongest Areas

Financial technology is another area where Lesotho has significant potential.

Mobile money services have become an important part of everyday financial activity, particularly for people who may not have easy access to traditional banking infrastructure.

The Lesotho National Development Corporation identifies fintech and mobile financial services as important components of the country's growing digital economy. It also identifies opportunities in e-commerce, digital financial services, software services, business-process outsourcing, education technology and health technology.

This creates an opportunity for Basotho technology companies to develop solutions specifically for the local market.

Instead of simply importing international platforms, local developers can build systems around the realities of Lesotho — including local payment methods, languages, businesses, government processes and consumer behaviour.

The next major step could be moving from mobile money primarily being a payment tool to becoming part of a broader digital commerce ecosystem.

Image source:
https://www.unicef.org/digitalimpact/sites/unicef.org.digitalimpact/files/styles/hero_desktop/public/UNI912203.webp?itok=OqhjXK_G