The Minister of Natural Resources, Mr. Monyane Moleleki has expressed the need for both short-term and long-term financial and technological assistance for least developed countries, including
Lesotho, to cope with effects of climate change.

Mr. Moleleki was highlighting the problems faced by Lesotho as a result of the changing climate during a press conference in Vienna, Austria under a theme 'Global Fight Against Climate Change'.

The Minister who is currently in Vienna leading the Lesotho Delegation on Climate Change Talks 2007, said as a result of climate change, Lesotho is faced with problems that include increased frequency and intensity of droughts, higher temperatures and a higher level of environmental
degradation.

Outlining his views on the sense of urgency around the world with regard to the programme of action on the world climate change, Mr. Moleleki, said the devastating drought and the associated poor harvest in Lesotho is the worst since 1900.

Meanwhile, yesterday (Monday), the Minister was one of the three Ministers who addressed more than 400 participants at the Global Talks on climate change in Vienna. The talks were to lay groundwork for agreements leading to developed countries to cut greenhouse gas emissions, which are responsible for climate change.

During his stay in Vienna, Mr. Moleleki will visit hydro power generation sites to foster cooperation and assess the possibility of establishing similar plants in the future to address energy needs in Lesotho.

Mr. Moleleki is accompanied by Dr. Makase Nyaphisi, Lesotho Ambassador to Austria, Mr. Ts'eliso Sekoli, Mr. Thabang Phuroe, Directors of Meteorology and Energy, respectively, Climate Change expert Mr. Motsomi Maletjane and Energy expert, Mr. Sello Sefali.

SOURCE: LENA 28/08/2007