Hydropower & AI Deal Under Scrutiny: Lesotho signed a $6.2bn Kobong Project with Convalt Energy to build a hydropower plant and AI data centre, but questions are rising after the named local partner Sekhametsi Investment Consortium links to Public Works Minister Matjato Moteane, who says he will recuse himself. Water Infrastructure Progress: Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase 2 is at 56.7% overall, with Polihali Dam 53% complete and the 38km transfer tunnel 58% complete despite underground conditions slowing tunnel boring. Bridges for Mokhotlong: Two newly completed LHWP II bridges—Mabunyaneng and Khubelu—are set to be unveiled, restoring year-round access where crossings will be submerged by the Polihali reservoir. Food Security & Health: WHO and the Pandemic Fund handed Lesotho about M2.5m in medical and ICT equipment for faster outbreak detection, while a deworming drive targets thousands of children in high-risk districts. Agriculture Knowledge Push: Minister Selibe Mochoboroane says Lesotho’s low production is mainly a skills gap, urging farmers to share practical know-how and get expert farm visits. Value Addition for Wool & Mohair: The Ethical Fashion Initiative roadshow is taking wool and mohair training to multiple districts to help MSMEs move from raw fibre to higher-value products. Regional Consumer Alert: Woolworths’ WBeauty shampoo recall spreads across COMESA after bacteria were detected, including sales into Lesotho and other countries. Tech & Jobs Link: Botho University and WASCO partner to give students workplace experience in areas like water management and digital transformation. STEM Showcase: Learners will compete at Eskom Expo ISF, with projects spanning AI, disease diagnosis and disability solutions. Mobile Data Prices Fall: Lesotho’s cost of 1GB dropped to M32.75 in September 2026, driven by competition and Starlink’s pressure on the market. Engineering Recognition: AECOM picked up CESA Aon Engineering Excellence Awards commendations for work including Lesotho’s Polihali Western Access Road.