The Telecom Lesotho exclusivity clause, which was to have come to an end on February 10, 2006, has been given a 12 months extension. 

Minister of Communications, Science and Technology, Mr. Motsoahae Thomas Thabane, announcing the extension at a meeting with telecommunications service providers on January 20, said the extension was brought about by one of the partners in Telecom Lesotho pulling out of the partnership. 

The puling out of Eskom Properties means that Telecom Lesotho may be unable to fulfill is mandate during the agreed five year exclusivity term, Mr. Thabane said. It was therefore decided that they be given the 12 months extension to the contract agreement. 

The exclusivity agreement involves leased lines, access to the international gateway and basic voice and basic data.

23 January 2006