Refiloe Molise
The Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL) has introduced a new digital tax payment system that allows taxpayers to pay via USSD, internet banking and the Standard Lesotho Bank (SLB) mobile application, a move aimed at making tax compliance easier, faster and more secure.
The launch marks a major shift from long queues and paperwork to a modern, reliable and transparent system.
Standard Lesotho Bank’s Chief Executive Samuel Seboka said the launch represents more than a technological upgrade, describing it as a partnership built on trust, shared values and a joint commitment to modernising revenue collection in Lesotho.
“Today, we are not simply launching a system. We are celebrating a partnership,” he said.
Seboka explained that the bank and RSL have achieved full integration of services for both physical and electronic collections, ensuring taxpayers have access to efficient, secure and convenient payment channels.
He noted that the launch marks the second iteration of the electronic revenue collection solution, building on the success of the first phase implemented last year and reflecting continuous improvement in service delivery.
He emphasised the role of technology in the initiative, saying, “We see technology as an enablerof efficiency for institutions, an enabler of compliance for taxpayersand an enabler of transparency and accountability for the nation.”
Seboka also highlighted SLB’s long-standing commitment to Lesotho, noting that the bank is celebrating 30 years of existence and remains dedicated to supporting national institutions and development initiatives in the country.
The Acting Commissioner General of RSL, Obed ‘Nete, said the new system is designed to reshape the taxpaying experience by placing convenience, efficiency and trust at the centre of service delivery.
He described the launch as a key milestone in modernising revenue collection and meeting the expectations of 21st-century revenue administration.
“This technology that we are launching today is about making it easier for Lesotho and the taxpaying community in general to meet their tax obligations in a way that is simple, secure and reliable,” Nnete said.
He explained that the journey toward digital integration began in 2022, guided by the ambition to build a modern payment gateway that delivers speed, transparency and reliability.
‘Nete reflected on the difficulties taxpayers faced in the past, when tax payments were often linked to delays and frustration.
“For many years, taxpaying was associated with long queues at service centers, long queues at the bank and uncertainty,” he said.
Taxpayers had to submit returns at service centres, get documents stamped, go to the bank to pay and then return with proof of payment. “All of that is going to be history today.”
Under the new arrangement, taxpayers and businesses can now pay corporate income tax, Pay As You Earn (PAYE), Value Added Tax (VAT) and customs duties using the three digital channels. According to ‘Nete, bringing these services onto one integrated platform will simplify processes while improving accuracy and reliability in handling payments.
The system was tested through a pilot involving about 500 clients to assess stability and user experience. ‘Nete said the trial demonstrated end-to-end processing and positive uptake across all channels.
Since October 2025, the pilot recorded more than 100 customs transactions and over 140 inland transactions, confirming the functionality and reliability of the solution.
He said a major benefit of the system is the elimination of un-receipted payments, where money reaches the bank without clear reference to the type of tax being paid.
“With this, that will be completely eliminated,” ‘Nete said, noting that automation will strengthen the accuracy of tax returns and payments while reducing under-reporting.
He added that the initiative supports RSL’s strategic objective of integrating tax compliance into the daily activities of taxpayers by making payment channels more accessible. He said the launch is more than a technical upgrade.
“It is an investment into transparency, accountability and public trust from our taxpayers.”
‘Nete thanked SLB, RSL staff, technical teams and the taxpayers who participated in the pilot phase, saying the partnership demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration.
He described the outcome as part of building a modern, responsive, citizen-centred administration aligned with Lesotho’s development goals.
Lebona gave a brief explanation of how taxpayers can use internet banking to make payments.
“We are going to show our clients how to use this platform,” he said while demonstrating the process.
Summary
- The Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL) has introduced a new digital tax payment system that allows taxpayers to pay via USSD, internet banking and the Standard Lesotho Bank (SLB) mobile application, a move aimed at making tax compliance easier, faster and more secure.
- He emphasised the role of technology in the initiative, saying, “We see technology as an enablerof efficiency for institutions, an enabler of compliance for taxpayersand an enabler of transparency and accountability for the nation.
- “This technology that we are launching today is about making it easier for Lesotho and the taxpaying community in general to meet their tax obligations in a way that is simple, secure and reliable,” Nnete said.
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