Hydropower + AI investment: Convalt Energy has signed a $6.2bn (98bn maloti) deal with Lesotho’s Ministry of Energy for the Kobong Hydropower and AI Data Centre Project in Mokhotlong, pairing a 1,200MW hydropower plant with a green-powered AI data centre—aimed at cutting electricity imports and creating jobs, though feasibility and regulatory steps still remain. Trade and investment push: Dubai Chambers met Lesotho’s Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane and ministers in Johannesburg to explore stronger bilateral trade and investment links, with a focus on Dubai expertise in logistics, infrastructure and the digital economy. Dairy sector revival: Government and dairy stakeholders in Maseru called for a practical roadmap to grow Lesotho’s dairy industry, citing underused infrastructure, low milk output and import dependence, and urging stronger public-private collaboration. Regional fisheries governance: SADC renewed the board of the Regional Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre (MCSCC) in Maputo, keeping Lesotho’s Bokang Makututsa as a stakeholder representative as the region targets tougher illegal fishing controls. Local development concerns: Villagers in Mokhotlong have lodged a formal complaint against the AfDB over alleged damage linked to the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, including home harm, water contamination and inadequate compensation. Health messaging support: Lesotho Red Cross, with UNICEF, met district nutrition teams in Leribe to strengthen community nutrition messages under the Ntlafatsa Bana Project.