SECTOR 3 3.7 The state/public broadcaster offers diverse programming formats for all interests, including local content and quality public interest programmes Section 38 (1) (b) of the Communications Act states that the broadcasters should ensure that the public has access to a diverse range of broadcast content, including: i. News ii. Educational iii. Cultural iv. Religious, and v. Sports and entertaining programming. In addition, Section 38 (1) (c) states that broadcasters should offer a diverse range of opinions regarding matters of public interest. The state radio stations (Radio Lesotho and Ultimate FM) do attempt to offer diversity. Radio Lesotho offers 100% local content. Panellists noted that the quality of the programmes is good and has continued to improve over the years. LTV offers less diverse programmes than radio. Although there is some diversity, the quality is poor. Panellists noted that this is partly due to insufficient resources to hire talented people, or to commission quality local programmes from independent producers. In fact, LTV sees independent producers as competitors, rather than as potential avenues to access high quality content (there is a tendency for LTV to refuse their content). Instead, the station relies on cheap international programmes – the stations' programming schedule closes at 10:00 PM and from then screens mainly Chinese programmes. Scores: Individual scores: 41 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: 2.8 (2015: 2.6, 2012: n/a, 2010: n/a, 2008: n/a, 2006: n/a) Overall Score for Sector 3: 1.6 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER LESOTHO 2018