Before the National Assembly on Tuesday 28 September 2021, MCST Minister, Honourable Tsóinyana Rapapa informed the house about vandalism of broadcasting transmitters (television and radio) in different parts of the country.
In his speech, the Minister told the house that following the 2015 International Telecommunication Union (ITU) request that the world must switch off from analogue to digital migration, the country has been able to construct up to twenty (20) transmitters.
He reported to the house that since 2013, the National Assembly allocated and invested over M250 million to this initiative that saw building of transmitters in the following districts:
Honourable Rapapa further articulated that the Government went further to construct transmitters (telephone) in different parts of the country through Universal Service Fund (USF)
Additionally, the Honourable Minister pointed out is his speech that Vodacom and Econet Lesotho have also constructed transmitter, a matter which he said he is appreciative of.
Currently, he noted that his Ministry is on Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) rollout countrywide, adding eight (8) districts have been visited thus far and only set top boxes and aerials are needed to access this modern service. During these visits, he pointed out that MCST learnt that some transmitters have been destroyed.
MASERU
Semonkong – the Ministry established that broadcasting transmitters for both television and radio have been destroyed and this will cost M100 000 for repair. Furthermore more, he said solar panels have also been stolen and this will cost half million. Ha Ponoane Roma – damage is approximately M100 000.
BEREA
Kueneng – destruction of a transmitter will cost M15 million as this will require construction of a new transmitter.
BOTHA-BOTHE
Qholaqhoe – Government will need M100 000 for repair.
MOHALE’SHOEK
Mokhele – destruction in Mohale’s Hoek will cost approximately M110 000.
LERIBE
At Pela-Tsóeu – generator battery has been stolen and this will cost M 2 000 while in Chafo batteries and diesel have been stolen and Government requires M5 000 in this regard.
QUTHING
Lebelonyane – Solar panels have been stolen and this will cost up to M485 000.
THABA-TSEKA
Sehong-hong – a transmitter which was handed over to the Ministry of Communications by LHDA to allow community access technological services has been destroyed. This means society will be unable to access information in relation to education, health and others.
He concluded by appealing to all to protect and prevent destruction saying this will hinder development in relation to DTT amongst others.
Toll-free number for reporting these incidents: 22233371
