The Deputy Commander for Civil-Military Engagement, Ambassador Robert K. Scott, told journalists at the end of his working visit to Lesotho this week that the trip aimed to strengthen the United States–Lesotho relationship and deepen security cooperation with the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF).
He said the partnership is founded on mutual respect, shared interests and a commitment to supporting peace, security and economic opportunities for the people of both countries.
The U.S. Africa Command, or AFRICOM, works with African partners to counter transnational threats, strengthen security forces, and respond to crises in order to promote security, stability, and prosperity.
Before coming to Lesotho, Scott visited Eswatini and concluded his trip in South Africa.
“My visit here is just a continuation of a relationship that is important to the United States, and I believe important for this decision. As was pointed out, the importance of this visit is that we do a lot together, and we want to talk to each other to identify areas, specific areas where we can continue to cooperate and expand that cooperation and partnership,” he said.
The Deputy Commander had an audience with the command of the LDF and the Minister of Justice and Law, Richard Ramoeletsi. He said that during his engagements with the officials, they discussed a number of areas of interest to both countries.
Scott stated that addressing issues such as border security is important, noting that security has a very broad context and is not solely military; it can include health security programmes, as well as food security and border security.
He further explained that, when discussing these matters, they were looking at ways in which Lesotho can work together with the U.S. Defense Attaché Office in Pretoria. He suggested exploring the use of drones, how they are used, and how Lesotho might deploy them to patrol its borders and ensure cattle are not brought in illegally, potentially carrying disease into the country.
He also warned of the shared threat posed by illegal drugs and narcotics, as well as those who ship or manufacture them, and said this was a joint area for exchanging intelligence and best practice to address threats affecting the youth.
“We know that Lesotho is taking a look at setting up a joint command centre, where your police and military are able to take a look at responding to either natural disasters or other challenges that you face. That’s something that all of our countries at times struggle with a little bit. How do you integrate civil and military? How do you prepare yourself for disaster response? And the New York National Guard has experience in that, and so Captain [Michele] Lowe also spoke about how New York might be able to help with that very specific project that you have,” Scott said.
Scott said he also spoke about U.S. investments. “There are a number of US companies that are coming into Lesotho, looking to invest in this country, and obviously every country, every company takes a look at security, whether it’s coming into the United States or into Lesotho.”
Reflecting on his visit to Lesotho, the U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Thomas Hines said that as Deputy to the Commander for Civil-Military Engagement, Ambassador Scott plays a critical role in advancing partnerships, providing policy guidance, and overseeing security cooperation and assistance programmes that support shared goals.
“We are excited that Ambassador Scott is visiting Lesotho to further strengthen our close and productive relationship and to deepen our security cooperation with the Lesotho Defence Force. The partnership between the United States and Lesotho is built on mutual respect, shared interests, and a commitment to promoting peace, security, and economic opportunity for our citizens,” Hines said.
He continued: “I have seen first-hand how closely our militaries work together to build capabilities, enhance professionalism, and improve readiness to respond to security, transnational, and humanitarian challenges.”
Hines said through training exchanges, professional military education, and cooperation on regional security priorities, the two nations’ partnership continues to grow stronger and more effective. He said beyond security cooperation, the United States remains committed to Lesotho’s development goals.
“We recognise that lasting stability is strengthened by investments in health, education, economic growth, and opportunities for young people. Our partnership is founded on improving lives and strengthening institutions,” he said.
Summary
- As was pointed out, the importance of this visit is that we do a lot together, and we want to talk to each other to identify areas, specific areas where we can continue to cooperate and expand that cooperation and partnership,” he said.
- He also warned of the shared threat posed by illegal drugs and narcotics, as well as those who ship or manufacture them, and said this was a joint area for exchanging intelligence and best practice to address threats affecting the youth.
- “We know that Lesotho is taking a look at setting up a joint command centre, where your police and military are able to take a look at responding to either natural disasters or other challenges that you face.
Thoboloko Ntšonyane is a dedicated journalist who has contributed to various publications. He focuses on parliament, climate change, human rights, sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), health, business and court reports. His work inspires change, triggers dialogue and also promote transparency in a society.
