SECTOR 2 2.6 Government promotes a diverse media landscape with economically sustainable and independent media outlets The government does not promote media development and diversity in the country. There are no subsidy or tax benefits by the government for the media. A good example that shows that the government has no real interest in the growth or sustainability of the media sector is when it increased licence fees for broadcasting stations by 300% three years ago. The manner in which the government uses advertising towards media houses also impacts on the growth of the media and its sustainability. Panellists noted that there is always a conscious decision by the government to close media houses that are critical of them either directly, through restrictions, or by the withdrawal of advertising. The government also rarely advertises in small scale newspapers. All these factors show that the government does not actively support media diversity. Panellists did, however, point out some positive developments. Previously, each radio station was required to buy its own antenna and transmitter, but now the government is using the Universal Service Fund to assist radio stations. ‘Through the FM expansion project, the government will upgrade radio transmission network infrastructure in 14 sites to accommodate private radio stations which wish to be connected at such sites. All costs pertaining to the infrastructure will be borne by the government while the expectation is that the radio stations will pay rental fees that cater for their connectivity. The financing of this project is entirely on the government.’ Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 27 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER LESOTHO 2018 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ 2.7 (2015: 2.0, 2012: 2.4, 2010: 1.4, 2008: n/a, 2006: n/a)