abc of doing business in lesotho (jan 2010)

INVESTING

IN

LESOTHO

The ABC of Doing

Business in Lesotho

2

INVESTING IN LESOTHO

1. INTRODUCTION

The document provides critical basic issues about doing business in Lesotho. It is intended to guide

investors who wish to investigate investment opportunities, incentives and investment climate in the

country. The Lesotho National Development Corporation is the first point of contact for investors who

intend to set up projects in the manufacturing and commercial sectors as well as in related support

services sectors in Lesotho.

1.1 INCENTIVES

Tax Rates

0% corporate tax on income generated from exporting manufactured goods outside of the

Southern African Customs Union (SACU)

a permanent maximum manufacturing tax rate of 10% on profits

no withholding tax on dividends distributed by manufacturing firms to local or foreign shareholders

no advanced corporation taxes are paid by companies on the distribution of manufacturing profits

training costs are allowable at 125% for tax purposes

payments made in respect of external management skills and royalties related to manufacturing

operations are subject to withholding tax of 10%

easy repatriation of manufacturing profits

a VAT rate of 14% (ensuring harmonisation with the RSA). Furthermore, the Lesotho Revenue

Authority

has introduced flexible VAT payment systems, to tax compliant firms, to ease cash flows

2. What the LNDC can do for Investors

The Lesotho National Development Corporation, at the request of potential investors, can assist any

investor in establishing a business in Lesotho. The things that the LNDC will do for potential investors

includes:

Getting a Business Started

o Reserve a company name

o Registering a company

o Getting a manufacturing license

o Registering for tax

Immigration Issues

o Visitors visas

3

o Work permits

o Residence permits

o 6 month border concessions (Lesotho)

Connecting to Utilities

o Electricity

o Water

o Telecommunications

2.1 RESERVE A COMPANY NAME

2.1.1 Why

In order to register a company an applicant first has to ensure that the proposed

name of the company has not been used by another firm.

2.1.2 Legislation

Companies Act (1967); as amended by Companies Amendment Act (1984)

2.1.3 Process

Step 1: Complete an application form;

Step 2: Submit an application to the Registrar of Companies who is located

in the Ministry of Law, Constitutional & Parliamentary Affairs;

Step 3: Pay statutory stamp duty upon having been advised that a company

name has been reserved;

Step 4: Certificate issued that specifies company name that has been

reserved.

2.1.4 Required Information/Documentation

An applicant must submit at least 3 proposed company names in order of preference.

An application form must be completed (see Annex “A”).

2.1.5 Statutory Fees Payable

M5.00 is payable to reserve a company name for 30 days; a further M5.00 is paid in

order to extend the reservation of a company name for a further 60 days.

2.1.6 What the LNDC can do for You

The LNDC will assist applicants to complete an application form and process the

application.

4

Time: On average the LNDC would take no more than 3 working days to reserve a

name

2.2 REGISTERING A COMPANY

2.2.1 Why

Registration gives a company a separate legal status, and the shareholders

protection of limited liability

2.2.2 Legislation

Companies Act (1967); as amended by Companies Amendment Act (1984)

2.2.3 Process

Step 1: Preparation of Memorandum and Articles of Association;

Step 2: Submit same to the Registrar of Companies who is located in the Ministry of

Law, Constitutional & Parliamentary Affairs

Step 3: Pay stamp duties upon being advised that the application has been

successful

Step 4: Certificate of Incorporation is issued

2.2.4 Required Information / Documentation

The following documentation is required to register a company:

the confirmation of reservation of company name (from 2.1);

a power of attorney from the subscribers wanting to register a company that

allows an attorney to represent them in the registration process;

a Memorandum and Articles of Association signed by each of the subscribers (in

the presence of witnesses). The Memorandum of Association must include: the

name of the company; its main and other objects; a statement that the liability of

the members is limited; names and addresses of subscribers; the amount of the

share capital or guarantee; the number of shares or amount of guarantee for

each subscriber;

details of the registered office (in particular its registered address and contact

details of the proposed company secretary);

a declaration by the attorney that the requirements of legislation have been

complied with;


Incorporation fee of M12.50 per M100.00, with a minimum of M100.00; stamp duty of

M1.00 per M100.00; a certificate fee of M20.00.

5


The LNDC will assist applicants to prepare Memorandum and Articles of Association.

Should applicants undertake the registration process themselves they would also

have to engage an attorney (estimated total charges, including statutory fees and

attorney charges, could be at least M2,000.00). Should the LNDC assist an applicant

the cost would be around M1, 200.00 (including attorney fees and statutory fees).

Time: On average the LNDC would take between 3 to 4 weeks to register a

company.

6

2.3 GETTING A MANUFACTURING LICENSE

2.3.1 Why

A manufacturing license gives a company legal authority to commence manufacturing

operations

2.3.2 Legislation

Industrial License Act (1969); and Pioneer Industries Encouraging Act (1969)

2.3.3 Process

Step 1: Complete an application form

Step 2: Pay the statutory application processing fee

Step 3: Submit application to the Director of Industry who is located in the Ministry of

Trade & Industry, Co-operatives and Marketing

Step 4: Applicants will be expected to appear before the Pioneer industries Board

(PIB) in order to motivate the application and answer any questions

Step 5: Pay the statutory annual license fee if the application is successful

Step 6: Manufacturing License is issued


The following documentation is required to obtain a manufacturing license:

a completed application form (see Annex “C”)

certified copies of the Memorandum of Association, and the Articles of

Association, and the Certificate of Incorporation;

a copy of the proposed lease agreement for the premises where manufacturing

will take place

certified copies of each directors’ identification documents/ passport


Application processing fee of M50.00; an annual fee of M1000.00.

2.3.6 Lodging Applications

The LNDC will assist applicants to complete an application form and process the

application.

Time: On average the LNDC would take up to 4 weeks to obtain a manufacturing license

2.4 REGISTRATION FOR TAX

2.4.1 Why

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All businesses have to register as taxpayers

2.4.2 Legislation

Income Tax Act ([1993], as amended by Act No 2. [1994]; No 10. [1996]; No 11. [2000]);

Value Added Tax Act ([2001], as amended by Act No 6. [2003])

2.4.3 Process

Step 1: Complete an application form

Step 2: Submit application to the Advise Centre Office of the Lesotho Revenue Authority

(LRA)

Step 3: Corporate Tax Clearance Certificate is issued


The following documentation is required:

Income Tax Registration:

Company Income Tax;

a completed “ Taxpayer Registration Form for Corporate Board” (see Annex “D1”);

certified copies of the Memorandum and Articles of Association;

Certificate of Incorporation;

Manufacturing License;

certified copies of each directors’ identification documents / passport

banking details (for local bank)

Resolution letter

Pay-as-you-Earn (PAYE)

a completed “Employer’s Registration Form” (see Annex “D2”)

certified copies of the Memorandum of Association, the Articles of Association, the

Certificate of Incorporation;

Manufacturing License;

certified copies of each directors’ identification documents /passport;

banking details (for local bank);

a list of all employees, including part-time, casuals, labourers, and temporary staff;

Resolution letter.

Income Tax: Self Employed Individuals (see Annex “D3”)

Resident Individuals : a self-employed individual must complete an “Individual Initial

Form” and furnish the LRA with full information about his/her business and personal

details.

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Non-Resident Individuals : if the individual is a non-resident an “Individual Initial Form”

must be completed and certified copies of the persons’ work permit and identity

document / passport must be supplied.

Should someone else, rather than an applicant, appoint another person to register a

company for tax a power of attorney is required. Banking details are required

Value Added Tax Registration – Companies:

a completed “VAT 1” and “TIN” registration forms” (see Annex “D4”);

- certified copies of the Memorandum of Association, the Articles of

Association, the Certificate of Incorporation, and the Manufacturing License;

certified copies of each directors’ identification documents/ passport;

banking details (for local bank);

should someone else, rather than a company director, appoint another person to

register a company for VAT a power of attorney is required;

Details of the company’s Lesotho banking accounts;


None


The LNDC is prepared to assist industrialists in completing documentation &

processing applications.

Time: On average the LNDC would take about 5 working days within which to register a

company with the LRA.

2.5 REGISTERING AS AN IMPORTER

2.5.1 Why

Applicants will need to register should they wish to import and export into and from

the Southern African Customs Union (SACU).

2.5.2 Legislation

Customs & Excise Act (1982)

9

2.5.3 Process

Step 1: Complete an application form (see Annex “E”);

Step 2: Submit application to the Director of Trade who is located in the Ministry of

Trade & Industry, Co-operatives and Marketing


The following documentation is required:

a completed application form

certified copies of Memorandum of Association, the Articles of Association, the

Certificate of Incorporation, and the Manufacturing Licence;

certified copies of each company directors’ identity documents/passport;

Should some one else, rather than an applicant, appoint another person to

register a company as an importer a power of attorney is required.


None


The LNDC is prepared to assist industrialists in completing documentation and

processing an application.

Time: On average the LNDC would take about 3 working days within which to register a

company with the Ministry of Trade & Industry, Co-operatives & Marketing.

10

ANNEX 1

LESOTHO’S MINIMUM WAGES 1

1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010

Ref Sector Monthly Wage

(Maloti)

Weekly Wage

(Maloti)

Daily Wage

(Maloti)Clothing, Textile & Leather Manufacturing

A.1.1. Textile General Worker (with <12 months service with same employer)

763.00 190.00 40.00

A.1.2. Textile Machine Operator – Trained (with <12 months service with same employer)

821.00 205.00 42.00

A.1.3 Textile Machine Operator – Trainee 763.00 190.00 40.00A.2. 1 Textile Machine Operator – Trained (with >12 months

service with same employer)881.00 221.00 45.00

A.2.2. Textile General Worker (with >12 months service with same employer)

830.00 206.00 43.00

ConstructionB.1. Construction machine operator and certificated

(Bricklayer, Carpenter , Steel fixer, welder, Electrician, Plumber) <12 months service with same employer

1744.00 413.00 106.00

B.2. Construction worker(unskilled) 990.00 249.00 52.00B.3. Construction machine operator and certificated

(Bricklayer, Carpenter , Steel fixer, welder, Electrician, Plumber) >12 months service with same employer

1981.00 469.00 121.00

B.4. Construction worker(unskilled)>12 1124.00 282.00 59.00

Wholesale & RetailC.1.1. Wholesale, supermarkets and furniture shops, bakeries

with more than 40 employees <12 months service with same employer

1107.00 252.00 54.00

C.1.2. Wholesale, supermarkets and furniture shops, bakeries with more than 40 employees >12 months service with same employer

1188.00 271.00 57.00

Retail Sector (other than small businesses)D.1. Employees with <12 months service with same employer 1005.00 250.00 54.00

Employees with >12 months service with same employer 1069.00 269.00 57.00Hospitality Sector

E.1. Hotels, motel, lodgeEmployees with <12 months service with same employer 1028.00 263.00 54.00Employees with >12 months service with same employer 1097.00 282.00 57.00

E.2. Restaurants, caterers, guest housesEmployees with <12 months service with same employer 974.00 244.00 52.00Employees with >12 months service with same employer 1045.00 261.00 55.00

Service SectorF.1. SecurityF.1.1. Security guard – trainee (with <12 months service with

same employer)908.00 232.00 48.00

F.1.2. Security guard – trained (with >12 months service with same employer)

1136.00 290.00 66.00

F.2. Funeral parlourF.2.1. Employees with <12 months service with same employer 1055.00 263.00 56.00F.2.2. Employees with >12 months service with same employer 1118.00 281.00 70.00F.3. Cleaning Services

1 The currency in Lesotho is the Loti (plural “Maloti” – symbol “M”). The Loti is tied to the South African Rand at par 1:1.

11

F.3.1. Employees with <12 months service with same employer 1055.00 263.00 56.00F.3.2. Employees with >12 months service with same employer 1118.00 281.00 70.00

Transport SectorF.4.1 B/EB/C1 (with <12 months service with same

C/EC1 employer)EC

1107.001213.001550.00

275.00304.00387.00

68.0075.0097.00

F.4.2. B/EB/C1 (with >12 months service with sameC/EC1 employer)EC

1229.001346.001723.00

308.00338.00431.00

77.0083.00

107.00F.4.3. Certified auto-electrician, motor mechanic, panel beater

Employees with <12 months service with same employer 1756.00 415.00 96.00Employees with >12 months service with same employer 1885.00 446.00 103.00

G. Small BusinessG.1 Employees with <12 months service with same employer 585.00 145.00 31.00G.2 Employees with >12 months service with same employer 640.00 189.00 35.00

H. Domestic WorkerH.1. Employees with <12 months service with same employer 313.00 82.00 20.00H.2. Employees with >12 months service with same employer 345.00 91.00 22.00

I. General Minimum WageI.1. Employees with <12 months service with same employer 836.00 209.00 46.001.2 Employees with >12 months service with same employer 912.00 229.00 51.00

Source: Labour Code Wages (amendment) Order 2009 (Legal Notice No. 179; Govt. Gazette number 78 of 18th November 2009).

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LESOTHO’S BASIC CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Issue Summary Labour Code

Ref.

Core

- discrimination Prohibited : concerning race, colour, sex, marital status, religion, political opinion,

national extraction

s5; s200

- freedom

association

Employers & employees allowed to join trade union and/or employer organisation of

their own choice

s6

- forced labour Prohibited s3; s7

- child labour Illegal to employ anyone under age of 15. Certain limitations on employment of young

persons (under 18)

s3; s124 –

129

Wages

- Normal Minimum wages: i. trainee general worker M763.00 per month; ii. trained textile machine

operator M821.00 per month; iii. Trainee textile machine operator M763.00 per month

[wef :1 Oct. 2009]

Labour Code

Wages Order

2009

- overtime rates Normal rates x 1.25 (Monday-Friday). For work on rest days (normally Saturday &

Sunday) double wage rate for those that work a normal work week

s118

- piece rate &

bonus

Permitted

- termination

benefits

2 weeks pay for each year of completed service with same employer. Benefit not paid

when worker is fairly dismissed for misconduct. Terminal benefits paid include pro-rata

leave & notice pay

s79

Working

Hours

- normal 45 hours per week (maximum for 5 day a week worker is 9 hrs per day; maximum for 6

day a week worker is 8hrs per day for 5 days, and 5 hours on 1 day)

s117 – 118

- overtime Maximum overtime allowed 11 hours per week. Exemptions under special

circumstances.

s118

- night work Allowed. Payment set by firm & employee/union agreement; failing which rates set by

Minister

Employers required to provide (but reasonable cost can be charged to worker) transport

to and from work (to the nearest place within 10km radius of the employees’ place of

employment) for workers working between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m.

s3; s130 –

131

Leave

- annual 12 days paid leave (i.e. 1 days paid leave for each month of service with the same s120

Issue Summary Labour Code

Ref.

employer)

- pubic holidays 11 paid days per annum. Public holidays on falling on Sunday do not carry over to

Monday

s121

- sick 1st 6 months of employment all sick leave unpaid

2nd 6 months of employment with same employer (12 days paid leave)

After 1 year with same employer 12 days sick leave on full pay; thereafter sick leave for

up to 24 days (on half pay) for each period of 12 months continuous service

s123

- maternity 6 weeks prior to birth; and 6 weeks after birth. Employees with 1 year continuous

service with the same employer shall be paid 2 weeks maternity pay limited to two

confinements

Employers & employees to agree on paid 1 hour per day baby feeding arrangements for

6 months

s119(5); s133

– 137

Labour Code

wages Order

2005

- educational

leave

Employees allowed reasonable paid time-off for training (incl. shop-steward training) s122

Probation

- probation Probation is for a period not exceeding 4 months S75

General

Other No training levy(firms earning DCC to contribute 3% of payroll for training); no annual

bonus, medical or retirement fund contributions; employers must take out an insurance

policy to cover injuries arising out of industrial accidents (about0.3% of payroll); wages

can be paid by electronic transfer

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Lesotho’s Commercial and Industrial Electricity Tariffs effective 1 st May 2009

ENERGY CHARGES

Customer Categories Energy Charge (M/kWh)

Industrial HV 0.1160

Industrial LV 0.1254

Commercial HV 0.1160

Commercial LV 0.1254

General Purpose 0.7580

Domestic 0.6680

MAXIMUM DEMAND CHARGES

Customer Categories MD Charge (M/kWA)

Industrial HV 129.3606

Industrial LV 140.8179

Commercial HV 129.3606

Commercial LV 140.8179

Source: Press release publicized by Lesotho Electricity Corporation (LEC)

Lesotho Water & Sewage Tariffs – 2009/20010

New Water Connection

Band Distance (m) Cost (Maloti)

1 6-25 1500

2 26-50 2500

3 51-100 3500

4 101-150 4500

New Sewer Connection

Band Distance (m) Cost (Maloti)

1 6-30 3000

2 31-90 4560

15

Sewerage is charged M5.37 on 85% of water consumed

Septic tanks, conservancy tanks, VIPs where there is no sewerage system M250.00 per load

Septic tanks, conservancy tanks, VIPs where there is sewer reticulated areas M385.00 per load

WASA has assumed that water returned to sewers is 85% of kiloliters billed.

New Water Tariffs

Standing Charge for domestic customers M24.65 for band A

Domestic Customers

Band Volume (Kiloliters) Rate per 1000 liters

A 0 – 5 M2.41

B 6 – 10 M4.08

C 11 – 15 M7.17

D Above 15 M9.89

Standpipe customers M3.27

Standpipe standing charge M0.00

Non Domestic Customers

Standing Charge for non domestic customers M164.19

All consumption (industries, business, government) M6.52

All consumption (school, churches) M6.47

16

LNDC FACTORY SHELLS: TYPICAL SPECIFICATION

Structural Frame Portal or propped portal steel frame primed and coated in gloss enamel.

Roof “Plain galvanized IBR”. “Sisalation” or “Bubble foil” insulation. No translucent sheeting.

Side Cladding “Plain galvanized” IBR with steel windows burglar proofed to ventilators only.

Walls “Approved concrete bricks” faced internally and externally to 1.2m AFFL. Ceramic wall

tiles to kitchen and bathroom splashguards only.

Floor Reinforced concrete 25Mpa, “Masterplate” floor hardening. Vinyl tiling to workers toilets.

Carpet tiles to offices.

Foundations Reinforced concrete footings.

Standard Power Supply M5 – 100kVA (300m2); M10 – 150kVA (1000m2)

M18 – 200kVA (1800m2); M20 – 315kVA (2000m2)

M30 – 400kVA (2000m2); M30 – 400kVA (3000m2)

M40 – 630kVA (4500m2); M50 – 850kVA (5000m2)

Ventilation Steel framed windows; ridge ventilators; cooling fans in certain areas.

Fire Fighting 10 kg portable fire extinguishers; 30 m fire hose reels. Sprinkler systems to M30’s, M40’s

, M50’s and larger units in certain cases.

Plumbing & Sanitary Stainless steel fittings in workers toilets. Vitreous china fittings and hot water plumbing

to senior staff toilets. Under sink hot water geyser to kitchenette and senior staff toilets.

Industrial-type toilet roll holders.

Water Supply Main incoming 50mm galv. iron; 5000 litre elevated emergency storage tank in certain

areas to ablution only.

Roller Shutter Door Chain operated minimum height 4.2m AFFL.

17

Guardhouse Standard design with fire place but no toilet.

Main Gate Standard design.

Perimeter Fencing Galv., welded mesh 2.1m high min; capped round posts and y-standards.

Offices Dry wall partitioning mezzanine floor on steel frame at a maximum ratio of 125m2 to

1000m2 of factory space.

Showers: Upon request.

Canteens: Upon request.

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PRINCIPAL ORGANISATION ACTIVE IN INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

Lesotho National Development Corporation (LNDC)

The Lesotho National Development Corporation is a development finance institution and investment promotion

agency which is in the business of facilitating private sector development and investment inflow into Lesotho. The

LNDC will assist new investors in establishing their businesses; provides investors with significant aftercare once

they have been established; and, rents industrial property to investors.

Contact Details

Physical Address : 9th Floor, Block A, Development House, Kingsway, Maseru, Lesotho

Post : Private Bag A96, Maseru 100, Lesotho

Tel : +266 22312012 Fax: +266 22310038

E-mail : [email protected]

Web : www.lndc.org.ls

Ministry of Trade & Industry, Co-operatives & Marketing (MTICM)

The Ministry of Trade & Industry, Co-operatives & Marketing is the national government department that is

responsible for the development and management of Lesotho’s industrial and trade policies. The MTICM plays a

role in processing applications for imports and exports, the registration of firms, etc. The Minister of Trade &

Industry chairs the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on Attracting and Maintaining Foreign Direct Investment in

Lesotho’s Textiles & Apparel Industry. This Task Team, which meets at least on a monthly basis, addresses a

range of issues related to Lesotho’s textiles and apparel industry.

Minister of Trade & Industry, Cooperatives & Marketing: The Honourable, Popane Lebesa

Ministry Principal Secretary: Mr. Teleko Ramotsoari

Post : PO Box 747, Maseru 100, Lesotho

Tel : +266 22312802 Fax : +266 22310326


Web : www.lesotho.gov.ls

Ministry of Employment & Labour

19

http://www.lesotho.gov.ls/

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.lndc.org.ls/


The Ministry of Employment and Labour is the government Ministry responsible for formulating and implementing

labour market policies. The Ministry has an inspectorate that is responsible for ensuring compliance with the

country’s labour laws; the Ministry is also responsible for issuing of work permits.

Minister of Employment & Labour: The Honourable Refiloe M. Masememe

Labour Commissioner: 'Mamohale Matsoso


Tel : Ministry +266 22322602 Tel: Labour Commissioner +266 22322181 Fax: +266 22310374

E-mail : Labour Commissioner: [email protected]

Ministry of Home Affairs & Public Safety

The Ministry of Home Affairs & Public Safety is the government Ministry responsible for issuing residence permits,

and all other matters related to border controls.

Minister of Home Affairs & Public Safety: The Honourable Archibald Lehohla

Ministry Principal Secretary: Lefa J. Mokotjo


Tel : Ministry +266 22323771 Tel: Principal Secretary: +266 22323526 Fax: +266 22310587

Lesotho Textile Exporters’ Association (LTEA)

The Lesotho Textile Exporters’ Association is a national organization which represents the majority of Lesotho’s

textile and garment exporters. The LTEA regularly interacts with all branches of the Government of Lesotho, and

with a range of other Lesotho stakeholders (e.g. trade unions, utility companies, etc).

President: Jennifer Chen


Tel : +266 22321823 Fax : +266 22321877


Lesotho Industrial Employers’ Association

20


http://www.lesotho.gov.ls/cabinet/plehohla.htm


The Lesotho Industrial Employers’ Association (LIEA) is a regionally based employers’ organisation whose

membership is concentrated in the towns of Maputsoe and Ha Nyenye. LIEA is affiliated to the Association of

Lesotho Employers.

President: John Lyon

Post : PO Box 1463, Maputsoe 350, Lesotho

Tel : +266 22430303 Fax : +266 22430012


Association of Lesotho Employers (ALE)

The Association of Lesotho Employers is a national employers association with some members who are active in

Lesotho’s textile and garment sector.

Executive Director: Advocate Makeka


Tel : +266 22315736 Fax : +266 22325384


Factory & Allied Workers’ Union (FAWU)

The Factory & Allied Workers’ Union is the largest trade union active in Lesotho’s textiles and apparel industry. In

an audit of trade union membership (mid-2005) FAWU was said to have 10 265 members.

General Secretary: Macaefa Billy


Tel : none Fax : +266 22317635

Cell GS : +266 62771744


Lesotho Clothing & Allied Workers’ Union (LECAWU)

21




The Lesotho Clothing & Allied Workers’ Union is the second most representative trade union active in Lesotho’s

textile and apparel industry. In an audit of trade union membership (mid-2005) LECAWU was said to have 5 332

members.

General Secretary: Daniel Maraisane


Tel : +266 22320958 Fax : +266 22310412

Cell GS : +266 58700696


Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA)

The Lesotho Revenue Authority is the organization that collects all taxes and is responsible for customs

administration. The LRA has a help desk at its head office which is able to assist taxpayers.


Tel : +266 22323796

Fax : +266 22312091

Toll Free : 8002 2006


Web site:www.lra.org.ls

Lesotho Public Holidays 2010

Day Date

New Year’s Day Friday 01 January 2010

Moshoeshoe’s Day Thursday 11 March 2010

Good Friday Friday 2 April 2010

Easter Monday Monday 5 April 2010

Worker's Day Saturday 01 May 2010

Ascension Day Thursday 13 May 2010

Africa/Heroes Day Tuesday 25 May 2010

King’s Birthday Saturday 17 July 2010

Independence Day Monday 04 October 2010

Christmas Day Saturday 25 December 2010

Boxing Day Sunday 26 December 2010

22

http://www.lra.org.lsls/



Note: Public holidays falling on a Sunday do not become a public holiday on the following Monday

Lesotho Working Hours

Civil Service working Hours

Generally 08h00 to 16h30. Lunch break mainly between 12h45 and 14h00

Commercial and retail places open 08h00 to 17h00

Lesotho Revenue Authority

Generally 08h00 to 17h00.

Commercial Sector

Generally 08h00 to 17h00

Manufacturing

Generally 07h00 to 17h00. Lunch break in garment sector mainly between 12h00 and 13h00

Commercial Banks

Weekdays: generally between 08h30 and 15h30

Saturdays: generally between 08h30 and 11h00

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LESOTHO’S: TELECOMMUNICATIONS & INTERNET SERVICES

Telecommunications

Teleconnect Lesotho (fixed line service provider/cellular service provider)

Physical Address : Kingsway (Opposite Main Post Office), Maseru, Lesotho

Postal Address : PO Box 1037, Maseru 100, Lesotho

Tel : +266 22211000 / 22211624

Fax : +266 22211170 / 22211705

Web site : www.telecom.co.ls


Tel : +266 22214800

Fax : +266 22327858


Web site : none

Lesotho Telecom

Also offers internet services (including broadband)

Vodacom Lesotho (cellular service provider)

Physical Address : Block B, 7th Floor, LNDC Development House, Kingsway, Maseru, Lesotho


Tel : +266 22212000

Fax : +266 22311079 / 22311187

Web site : www.vcl.co.ls

Internet

LEO

Physical Address : Taoana Centre, Orpen Road, Maseru, Lesotho


Tel : +266 22322772

Fax : +266 22317816

Web site : www.leo.co.ls

Note: Leo can also assist in registering an internet domain name.

iLesotho / Comnet

Physical Address : 4 Tulley Road, Maseru, Lesotho

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http://www.leo.co.ls/

http://www.vcl.co.ls/


http://www.telecom.co.ls/


Tel : +266 22317645

Fax : +266 22317920

E-mail :

Web site : www.ilesotho.com

NOTE : All of the above, while being headquartered in Maseru, most are able to offer services in other parts of

Lesotho.

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http://www.ilesotho.com/

LESOTHO’S BANKING SECTOR

Central Bank of LesothoPhysical Address : Corner Airport & Moshoeshoe Roads, Maseru, Lesotho Postal Address : PO Box 1184, Maseru 100, LesothoTel : +266 22314281 / 22324281Fax : +266 22310051 / 22310679 E-mail : [email protected] site : www.centralbank.org.ls

Standard Lesotho Bank Physical Address HQ : Lesotho Bank Tower, Kingsway, Maseru, LesothoPostal Address : PO Box 1053, Maseru 100, LesothoTel : +266 22315737Fax : +266 22317321Swift code : SBICLSMXE-mail : [email protected] Branches : Maputsoe; Maseru; Mafeteng; Mohales Hoek and all other districts.

First National Bank (Lesotho) - FNBPhysical Address HQ : Corner Kingsway and Parliament Road, Maseru, LesothoPostal Address : PO Box 11902, Maseru 100, LesothoTel : +266 22222200Fax : +266 22222222Swift code : FIRNZAJJE-mail : [email protected] Branches : Maseru, Maputsoe

Nedbank (Lesotho)Physical Address HQ : Nedbank Building, Kingsway, Maseru, LesothoPostal Address : PO Box 1001, Maseru 100, LesothoTel : +266 22312696Fax : +266 22310025Swift code : NEDLLSMXE-mail : [email protected] Web site : www.netbank.co.ls Branches : Maputsoe; Maseru; Mafeteng; Mohales Hoek

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http://www.netbank.co.ls/




http://www.centralbank.org.ls/


GETTING TO LESOTHO

AIR

Johannesburg International Airport to Moshoeshoe

International Airport

SA Airlink flies from Johannesburg to Moshoeshoe

airport daily (Moshoeshoe is approximately 30 km from

the Maseru CBD). The flight takes 70 minutes.

Bookings : www.flysaa.com

Bloemfontein Airport

A number of South African airlines (SAA, SA Airlink, Comair)

fly to Bloemfontein on a daily basis from Johannesburg, Cape

Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth. Once in Bloemfontein it is

a 155km road trip to Maseru.

ROAD

Road : Johannesburg to Maseru (430km)

Leave JHB on the N1 South towards Bloemfontein.

Pass Kroonstad and at Ventersburg turn left onto the

R70. Drive past Senekal and take the Marquard road

(R707). At Marquard turn left onto the R708.

Immediately after you pass the town of Clocolan, turn

right onto the R26. About 4km after Ladybrand turn left

onto the N8 and you will reach the Maseru Bridge

border post in about 14km.

Road : Durban to Maseru (550km)

Take the N3 until Harrismith (in the Free State) turn left onto

the N5. About 5km out of Harrismith turn left onto the R74;

after about 10km the R74 becomes the R712. Pass

Phuthaditjhaba and drive through the Golden Gate National

Park until you get to Clarens. At Clarens turn left onto the

R711. At the town of Fouriesburg turn left onto the R26. If

you are going to Maputsoe cross the RSA-Lesotho border at

Ficksburg; if you are going to Maseru carry on onto

Ladybrand. About 4km after Ladybrand turn left onto the N8

and you will reach the Maseru Bridge border post in about

14km.

Road : Bloemfontein to Maseru (155km)

If at the airport turn left onto the N8, pass the towns of

Botshabelo and Thaba Nchu. About 58km after Thaba

Nchu the N8 will veer to the right. After about 14km you

will reach the Maseru bridge border post.

Road : East London to Maseru (570 km)

Take the N6 to Aliwal North. About 31km outside of Aliwal

North (at the town of Rouxville) turn right onto the R26. Pass

the towns of Zastron, Wepener and Hobhouse until you reach

the N8. Turn right onto the N8, after 12km the N8 veers right.

You will reach the Maseru Bridge border post in about 14km.

Road : Cape Town to Maseru

Take the N1 to Bloemfontein. At Bloemfontein turn onto

the N8 (see Bloem to Maseru route above).

Car Hire :

The following car hire companies operate in Maseru:

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http://www.flysaa.com/

Avis : Tel : +266 22320087; fax : +266 22320087 web : www.avis.co.za

Budget : Tel : +266 22316432; fax : +266 web : www.budget.co.za

Imperial : Tel : +266 22350292; fax : +266 22250290 web : www.imperialcarrental.co.za

NOTE : Car hire companies sometimes charge excessive car rental fees if a vehicle is picked-up in Lesotho

and then dropped-off in South Africa (and vice versa).

Maseru Taxis :

- if you are staying at the Lesotho Sun they run a free shuttle service to and from Moshoeshoe International

airport.

- Mike-the-Taxi picks-up passengers on every flight coming into and leaving from Moshoeshoe International

Airport. Cost M50.00. Contact Mike on: +266 58855527.

- Moonlight Taxis run a door-to-door taxi service within Maseru. The standard fee is between M20.00 and

M25.00 per trip. Moonlight may be contacted on: +266 22312695.

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http://www.imperialcarrental.co.za/

http://www.budget.co.za/

http://www.avis.co.za/

WHERE TO STAY IN LESOTHO

MASERU SUN HOTEL

12 Orpen Road

Old Europa

Maseru

Lesotho

Central Reservations : +27 11 7807860

Tel : +266 22312434

Fax : +266 22310158


Web : www.suninternational.com


NOTE: The Maseru Sun offers LNDC guests

preferential tariffs, and runs a shuttle

service to and from Maseru’s airport.

LESOTHO SUN HOTEL

Hilton Road

Maseru

Lesotho

Central Reservations : +27 11 7807800

Tel : +266 22313111/22243000

Fax : +266 22310104


Web : www.suninternational.com


NOTE: The Lesotho Sun runs a shuttle service to

and from Maseru’s airport.

VICTORIA HOTEL

Kingsway Road (opposite Basotho Hat)

Maseru

Lesotho

Reservations : +266 22313687

Fax : +266 22313687


Web : none


LANCERS INN HOTEL

Cnr, Kingsway & Pioneer Roads

Maseru

Lesotho

Reservations : +266 22312114

Fax : +266 22310223


Web : none

Post : Private Bag A216, Maseru 100,Lesotho

LADYBRAND: Places to Stay

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http://www.suninternational.com/


http://www.suninternational.com/


20km from Maseru – border post open 24 hours

Web site : Free State Provincial Government – Tourism (see : www.dteea.fs.gov.za)

- click tab “accommodation” (top of screen)

- keep view “all types of accommodation”

- under “area / location” select Ladybrand, click “GO”

FICKSBURG : Places to Stay

3km from Maputsoe / 10km from Ha NyeNye – border post open 24 hours

Web site : Free State Provincial Government – Tourism (see : www.dteea.fs.gov.za)

- click tab “accommodation” (top of screen)

- keep view “all types of accommodation”

- under “area / location” select Ficksburg, click “GO”

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http://www.dteea.fs.gov.za/

http://www.dteea.fs.gov.za/

abc of doing business in lesotho (jan 2010)

Documents