The Minister of Public Works and Transport Attends African Union Transport and Infrastructure Meeting
The Minister of Public Works and Transport, Honourable Matjato Moteane participated in the 4th Ordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Transport, Transcontinental, and Interregional Infrastructure and Energy (STC-TTIIE) held from 12th to 15th September, 2023, in Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania.
Hosted by the African Union Commission, the high level meeting was aimed at addressing critical issues concerning infrastructure, energy, and transportation on the African continent, especially in the wake of global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and economic uncertainties resulting from the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
In his address at the 4th Ordinary Session the Chairperson the Ordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee and Minister of Public Works and Transport, Honourable Matjato Moteane reaffirmed Lesotho's commitment to Africa's development. He underscored the crucial role of infrastructure and energy in the continent's recovery from global crises, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to expedite the implementation of priority projects and contribute to continental aspirations.
The Honourable Minister’s delegation included Mr. Khasapane Kikine, Director of Road Network Planning at the Roads Directorate, who made opening remarks at the Experts Meeting preceding the high-level Ministers’ meeting.
Delivering his speech, Mr. Kikine emphasized the need for collective action to mitigate the adverse impacts of global crises on the energy and infrastructure sectors. He stressed the significance of fast-tracking priority projects in the Transport and Energy sectors to promote sustainable economic recovery.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport through its vision and mission align with the overarching goals of ensuring accessible, safe, and well-maintained road infrastructure that supports socio-economic growth. This mission resonates with the broader continental agenda discussed at the STC-TTIIE, making Lesotho's participation pivotal in contributing to Africa's infrastructure development.
Participation in international fora like the STC-TTIIE demonstrates the Government of Lesotho’s dedication to regional and continental collaboration, reinforcing its role as an active player in advancing the continent's infrastructure and energy sectors.
Lesotho has been Chair of the Specialized Technical Committee on Transport, Transcontinental, and Interregional Infrastructure and Energy since 2021. Lesotho handed over the baton to Ethiopia at this meeting.
The important session which brought together stakeholders including Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RECs) specialized institutions and partners from across Africa was organized by the African Union Commission (AUC) in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
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About us: The Roads Directorate is a semi-autonomous government institution legally established in 2010. The Directorate is mandated with planning, development and maintenance of the road network.
Issued by: Nozesolo Matela Public Relations Manager Corner Senate and Lepoqo Streets, Industrial Area, Maseru Tel: 522229000/22229000 E-mail: mpopon@rd.org.ls
