Lesotho is working to establish the Royal Science and Technology Park, drawing inspiration from Eswatini's Innovation Hub.
This was revealed yesterday by Kopano Tsenoli, Lesotho's chief engineer and head of the Department of Appropriate Technology Services, who is leading a delegation on a benchmarking visit to Eswatini.
Tsenoli commended Eswatini's efforts to boost innovation and research, drive economic diversification, help startups and entrepreneurs, attract investment and partnerships, promote skills development, and advance ICT and digital transformation.
Eswatini's Ministry of ICT, led by principal secretary Andreas Dlamini, welcomed a team from the Kingdom of Lesotho's Department of Research, Science, Technology, and Innovation (RSTI).
The tour by Lesotho delegation is focused on exploring Eswatini’s innovation ecosystem, with key activities including:
• A visit to the Royal Science and Technology Park in Phocweni, the country’s national hub for research, technology transfer, and startup support
• A tour of the Biotechnology Park in Nokwane, highlighting Eswatini’s approach to biotechnology innovation
• Collaborative engagements with the Ministry of ICT on strategy, policy development, and lessons learned in advancing our national innovation system
In his welcome remarks, Dlamini emphasised the importance of regional collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strengthening ties between the two Kingdoms, which influenced the choice to choose Eswatini as the tour destination.
He underlined that both countries' government structures, cultural values, policies, and development plans are aligned, making partnership beneficial.
He also praised Lesotho's accomplishments and success stories in adopting national innovation strategy, biotechnology, and STEM programs.
He went on to say: “We hope and pray that your visit here will shed light on the following aspects: cultural exposure, knowledge sharing and networking, inspiration and innovation, cultural awareness, team building and motivation, and policy and strategy development.”
Dr. Rejoice Maseko, RSTI director, expressed her appreciation for the benchmarking tour and emphasised the importance of the numerous facilities visited in Eswatini's research, science, technology, and innovation ecosystem.
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