This article was first published on the UbuntuNet Alliance’s website.
The UbuntuNet-Connect 2025 conference in Harare marked a milestone moment for the regional research and education landscape as Lesotho’s National Research and Education Network was officially welcomed into the UbuntuNet Alliance community. The announcement was met with enthusiasm across the network as stakeholders celebrated the addition of another national partner committed to advancing digital infrastructure for research, innovation, and higher education.
Representatives from Lesotho participated actively throughout the conference, beginning with pre-conference events that offered them an opportunity to gain deeper insights into the transformative work of NRENs across Africa. Through technical workshops, thematic discussions, and networking forums, the delegation engaged with peers from across the continent, exchanging ideas on connectivity, research data services, digital identity, and capacity development—core pillars that will shape their journey as a new NREN.
The delegation’s presence was especially felt at the Women Hackathon, one of the most celebrated events around UbuntuNet-Connect each year. Lesotho was represented by a team of three young women who impressed judges and participants alike, ultimately securing third place overall. Their achievement not only highlighted the country’s growing talent in digital innovation but also affirmed the importance of gender-inclusive participation in national and regional digital transformation efforts.
Joining the UbuntuNet Alliance marks a significant step for Lesotho. Establishing an NREN positions the country to:
- Improve connectivity for universities and research institutions through high-speed, affordable, and reliable broadband
- Enhance access to global research and education resources, including eduGAIN, open science platforms, and collaborative tools
- Support digital innovation, STEM education, and youth empowerment
- Strengthen partnerships with NRENs across Africa and the world
- Benefit from capacity-building, shared expertise, and regional infrastructure investments
Membership in the Alliance also brings Lesotho into major continental initiatives under the AfricaConnect projects, offering new avenues for digital transformation and national development.
For UbuntuNet Alliance, the arrival of Lesotho reinforces the growing momentum of regional collaboration and the shared vision of enabling world-class research and education networks throughout Eastern and Southern Africa.
