Seabata Mahao
The Head of Strategic Partnerships and Public Relations at Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL), Pheello Mphana, has highlighted the media’s role in fostering an informed citizenry on tax obligations and compliance benefits.
“We believe well-informed reporting can drive positive change by helping the public and businesses understand their tax obligations and appreciate the benefits of compliance. This is crucial for building trust and transparency,” Mphana stated.
“The media plays a vital role in shaping public discourse, and we are determined to empower journalists to report with accuracy and integrity.”
Mphana made these remarks at a certification ceremony for over 20 business and economic reporters who recently completed a two-day media training workshop hosted by RSL.
The workshop aimed to strengthen business journalism in Lesotho by promoting accurate financial reporting to foster transparency, accountability, and public trust.
Attending journalists gained valuable expertise in reporting on financial and economic matters, including taxation, which is critical for bridging knowledge gaps between RSL and the public.
Kananelo Boloetse, the chairperson of the Media Institute of Southern Africa Lesotho chapter (MISA Lesotho), commended RSL for hosting the training, noting its potential to elevate journalism standards in Lesotho.
“This training will curb misinformation and disinformation on tax matters. Equipped with this knowledge, journalists can now correct misreporting about RSL on social media and other platforms,” Boloetse said, adding that the certificate offers career advancement and adds valuable skills to participants’ professional portfolios.
The intensive workshop covered business reporting fundamentals, tax policies, compliance issues, and Lesotho’s economic landscape. RSL experts and private-sector financial specialists provided participants with practical insights into tax laws and business operations.
The sessions emphasised investigative journalism techniques, ethics in financial reporting, and data journalism, helping journalists interpret complex economic data and communicate tax regulations to the public.
It was at the same event where MISA and RSL launched the 2024 Media Awards, which marks a significant milestone in RSL’s engagement with the media.
The awards will recognise journalists who shine in reporting of financial and economic issues, and other categories with the goal of encouraging media practitioners.
