RSL, LNDC join forces on tax compliance drive
BOKANG MOSHOESHOE
MASERU – In a move to strengthen tax compliance and enhance the country’s investment climate, the Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL) and the Lesotho National Development Corporation (LNDC) convened a joint workshop for manufacturers last Friday.
The event, themed “Tax Compliance,” is a key part of both institutions’ ongoing mission to improve the ease of doing business and ensure manufacturers – vital contributors to the national economy – operate in a transparent and supportive environment.
The initiative is part of on-going efforts by both institutions to improve the ease of doing business in Lesotho and ensure that manufactures, which are among the largest contributors to the country’s economy, operate in an environment that is transparent, supportive and growth-oriented.
Discussions tackled the most pressing challenges manufacturers face, including tax compliance requirements – clarifying legal responsibilities and available support services; audit and refund processes – demystifying procedures to build transparency and trust as well as digitalisation of tax services, which included showcasing the RSL’s efforts to modernize and improve accessibility.
Other areas deliberated on covered customs procedures and export incentives, providing key information for businesses targeting international markets and local market opportunities – exploring ways to boost Lesotho’s industrial competitiveness.
The session provided a platform for participants to raise practical challenges and seek solutions directly from the authorities.
In her opening address, RSL Commissioner General, ‘Mathabo Mokoko, underscored the manufacturing sector’s critical role in economic growth, job creation, and export revenues. She reaffirmed RSL’s commitment to being a development partner, not just a regulator.
“The Revenue Services Lesotho is here to support, guide, and facilitate compliance in a way that helps businesses grow sustainably. Our role goes beyond collecting revenue; it extends to building partnerships that promote economic development,” Mokoko stated.
She strongly encouraged manufacturers to utilize RSL’s free services and maintain open communication, assuring them that “no taxpayer should ever feel burdened with unofficial costs.”
The workshop aligns with RSL’s nationwide Mphahlolle Campaign, which educates the public on the importance of tax compliance and the support services available, framing taxation as a shared responsibility for national development.
The Mphahlolle Campaign has been instrumental in demystifying tax-related processes, breaking down barriers to compliance, and encouraging citizens to view taxation as a shared responsibility that underpins national development.
For the LNDC, this collaboration is central to its mandate of fostering a business environment conducive to investment and job creation. By partnering with RSL, the corporation ensures tax compliance does not become an obstacle to attracting and retaining investors.
This joint effort signals a proactive government approach to balancing revenue collection with private sector development. Both RSL and LNDC committed to continuing this dialogue, ensuring a strong, evolving partnership with the industry to foster sustainable economic growth.
With this partnership, the two institutions reaffirmed their dedication to fostering sustainable economic growth and supporting the manufacturing sector as a vital engine of Lesotho’s development.
