SECTOR 2 2.11 The country has a coherent ICT policy and/or the government implements promotional measures, which aim to meet the information needs of all citizens, including marginalised communities. Lesotho has a formal ICT policy, but its effectiveness has not yet been tested, and the extent to which it has been implemented is unclear. “It is there, but the test has not been done to interrogate it.” Amongst other things, the policy is “intended to unite Government, industry, civil society and the general public in the achievement of its national development goals”. It promotes the use of mobile telephones, seeks to reduce the digital divide, and aims to secure Lesotho’s place in the information economy, etc. However, various structures that are meant to promote its implementation – for example, rural electrification, school resources, e-government infrastructure, etc. – are not yet in place. Although many people have access to mobile telephones, the adoption of internet is slow – mainly because of the high price of internet. Furthermore, with only 30% of Lesotho being electrified and the rural electrification programme far behind schedule, the introduction of ICTs in rural areas has yielded very mixed results thus far. “Taking these issues in their totality, the concern is not only to provide facilities, but also to undertake research and monitoring. It is only in higher education where we find greater access. But in primary and secondary education, ICT use is low. The obstacles lie in implementation.” “There is a lack of political will, especially since the budget is there. If a certain project won’t benefit certain individuals, it won’t see the light of day.” With regards to digital migration, Lesotho is partly ready, and should be done preparing for this by October 2015. 38 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER Lesotho 2015