Lesotho has called for stronger global action to ensure developing countries are not left behind in the artificial intelligence (AI) era, highlighting the need for affordable connectivity, reliable energy and strong digital foundations.
According to Kanono Ramashamole, principal secretary in Lesotho’s Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, developing nations must be supported to participate in AI not only as consumers, but also as co-creators of policy and technology.
Ramashamole made the remarks during the United Nations Global Dialogue on AI Governance, WSIS Forum and AI for Good events in Geneva, Switzerland.
According to the Lesotho government, the country has achieved 100% broadband coverage, but only about 50% of the population regularly accesses the internet.
Ramashamole said this shows affordability remains a major barrier to digital inclusion and participation in the AI economy.
He also highlighted the importance of reliable energy as a foundation for digital participation.
In some areas, people still travel long distances simply to charge mobile phones, making it difficult for communities to access digital services or participate meaningfully in the AI economy.
On data, Ramashamole said many developing countries continue to face challenges caused by fragmented data held across institutions, weak governance frameworks and limited availability of data in formats that support responsible AI development.
He said Lesotho sees investment in digital public infrastructure and open-source approaches as practical pathways to building national AI readiness.
Ramashamole also highlighted the country’s participation in Open Source Week as an example of efforts to develop digital skills and technical capacity.
“Lesotho is taking concrete steps to ensure that it is not merely a consumer of AI technologies, but a co-creator of the policies, platforms and digital foundations that will shape the future of AI,” he said.
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