SECTOR 2 2.10 Private broadcasters deliver a minimum of quality public interest programmes There are no private TV stations in Lesotho, but there are a few privately owned radio stations, such as the popular MoAfrika and Harvest FM. The radio stations do offer public interest programming in the form of talk radio programmes and news, but on most private radio stations, these programmes are of poor quality. They are badly produced and most radio presenters are illprepared and untrained for the job. Panellists noted that the talk radio programmes ‘fan ethnic flames’, as some people call in to insult others – and the stations seem to support this. ‘There is a sensationalist agenda in these stations that is working against social cohesion and nation-building.’ Radio in Lesotho has been used as a platform for denigrating and vilifying people and political opponents. Panellists, however, noted the important role played by Catholic Radio in nation-building. The radio station offers a space for participation and deliberation; providing a voice to all people other than just the Catholic community. 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: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓✓✓ ✓ 1.7 (2015: 2.3, 2012: n/a, 2010: n/a, 2008: n/a, 2006: n/a) 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 The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) policy was promulgated in 2004, and then adopted as a working document in March 2005. The main driver of the ICT policy was the Ministry of Communications, Science and Technology. The Universal Access Fund was established in 2009 by the government in an attempt to promote access to the internet in rural and other marginalised areas. 31 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER LESOTHO 2018