FY 2024 Lesotho Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | April 2024 Acknowledgements The Lesotho Country Opinion Survey is part of the County Opinion Survey Program series of the World Bank Group. This report was prepared by the Business Intelligence (BI) team, led by José De Buerba (Senior External Affairs Officer) and Svetlana Markova (Senior External Affairs Officer). Yulia Danilina, Jessica Cameron, Nan Lin, and Sofya Gubaydullina oversaw the design, reporting, and analysis of the survey results. Noreen Wambui and Irina Popova provided data support. BI acknowledges the significant contribution from the Lesotho country team and independent fielding agency, the National University of Lesotho Economics Department. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Mafupu Esther Mokoena (Operations Officer) who coordinated the survey-related activities from Maseru, Lesotho. Contents Objectives Methodology Overview Overall Context Overall Attitudes Toward the World Bank Group World Bank Group’s Support in Development Areas World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Lesotho World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Lesotho Communication and Outreach Demographics of the Sample and Detailed Methodology 3 Objectives This survey was designed to assist the World Bank Group (WBG) in gaining a better understanding of how stakeholders in Lesotho perceive the WBG. The survey explored the following questions: 1. Overall Context: How familiar are they with the WBG? How much do they trust the WBG? 2. Key Indicators: What opinion do key stakeholders have of the WBG when it comes to its effectiveness, relevance, alignment with Lesotho’s development priorities, and other key indicators? Are opinions improving or declining? 3. Development Priorities: What areas of development are perceived to be the most important? Have the priorities changed over the past three years? How effective is the WBG perceived to be in these areas? 4. Engagement on the Ground: How is the WBG perceived as a development partner in Lesotho? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholders value the most when it comes to the WBG’s work in Lesotho? What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions to improve WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels? 7. Message Recall: What key topics that the WBG communicates do stakeholders recall? Is there a relationship between message recall and views of the WBG’s work? 4 Methodology Overview Government Institution 24% ▪ Fielded January – February 2024 ▪ 437 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly quantitative survey Civil Society 18% ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online or in face-to-face interviews with fielding agency representatives Local Government 15% ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the fielding agency Office of a Parliamentarian 11% ▪ Process managed on the ground by the fielding agency ▪ 152 participants (26% response rate) Academia / Research Center 11% ▪ 51% from Maseru ▪ 55% currently collaborate with the WBG Private Sector 10% ▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey Media 5% ▪ 109 participants (40% response rate) ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online Office of the President, Prime 4% Minister, Minister ▪ 55% collaborated with the WBG Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 3% Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=152) 5 6 Overall Context “1. Align with National priorities and appreciate the local context 2. Limit bringing fully developed projects that are not suitable for the Lesotho context. 3. Strengthen Government accountability on project implementation. It is not sufficient that the WBG will produce reports highlighting critical gaps in project implementation without holding the government accountable. 4. Engage with local government authorities, Academia, and CSOs/NGOs.” (Academia Respondent) “One of the most important things the World Bank Group (WBG) could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho is to prioritize capacity building and local ownership in its development projects. By empowering local institutions, fostering skill development among local professionals, and involving communities in decision-making processes, the WBG can ensure that its interventions are sustainable, contextually relevant, and have a lasting impact on the country's development.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho?(N=118) Consistent Familiarity with the World Bank ▪ Year comparison: Respondents in this year’s Country Survey reported higher, but statistically similar, levels of All Respondents 7.0 familiarity with the World Bank compared to respondents in the FY21 Survey: Government Institution 8.3 Mean familiarity: FY24 = 7.0 FY21 = 6.4 Private Sector 7.5 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Local Government 6.6 Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 7.9 Do not collaborate = 5.8 Civil Society 6.3 ▪ Stakeholders: Respondents from government institutions indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the WBG, Academia / Research Center 6.1 followed by respondents from private sector, whereas respondents from Parliament reported significantly lower levels of familiarity with the work of the WBG. Parliamentarian 5.7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Lesotho? 7 Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar Significantly different between stakeholder groups Stakeholders Most Familiar with the UN and WBG ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to indicate their familiarity with the work of several international United Nations 7.3 organizations in addition to the World Bank Group. Of these organizations, respondents in Lesotho indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the work of the UN, followed by the WBG. Respondents were least familiar with the work of the World Bank Group 7.0 AfDB and IMF in Lesotho. European Union 6.4 African Union 6.0 African Development Bank 5.7 (AfDB) International Monetary Fund 5.3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity How familiar are you with the work of these organizations in Lesotho? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar 8 Q Ratings for the UN and WBG were statistically similar, as were ratings for the African Union and AfDB. Ratings for all other organizations were significantly different. The WBG among the Top 5 Central Bank of Lesotho* 7.5 6.6 Most Trusted Institutions 7.4 Academia / research centers Respondents in Lesotho gave the highest ratings of trust for the Central Bank, academia, civil society, the UN, and 7.4 Civil society* the World Bank Group. Of note is that ratings of trust for the 6.6 Central Bank and civil society significantly improved in FY24 compared to the FY21 survey, as were ratings of trust in the 7.3 United Nations 7.2 private sector. 7.2 Despite having significantly improved ratings compared to the World Bank Group 7.0 FY21 survey, the media, and national government were among the least trusted of the institutions studied. Local 6.9 government was the least trusted institution. Private sector* FY24 5.6 FY21 ▪ In terms of trust in the WBG, respondents from the local Regional development banks and 6.7 government had the highest ratings of trust in the WBG organizations 6.2 (mean = 8.3) whereas respondents from private sector and Parliamentarians had significantly lower ratings of trust 6.1 International Monetary Fund (means = 5.8 and 5.9, respectively). 6.4 6.0 Media* 5.3 5.9 National government* 3.6 5.3 Local government 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 How much do you trust each of the following institutions to do what is right for Lesotho? Mean Rating of Trust Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significant difference between years 9 10 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “1. Timely assistance in terms of resources / disbursements. 2. Capacity building in project management and public sector governance.” (Government Principal Respondent) “Improve on accountability, evaluation, and monitoring of funded projects. Projects seem active during the financial support and often collapse at a later stage, so considering sustainability measures and training beneficiaries on continuity are essential.” (Private Sector Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho?(N=118) Key Performance Indicators Remain Positive In FY24, respondents gave high ratings for the WBG’s 7.2 relevance to development in Lesotho, alignment with their Relevant role in development development priorities for the country, its positive 7.1 influence on shaping development policy, and the WBG’s effectiveness in helping Lesotho to achieve development Aligned with development 7.1 results. priorities 7.1 ▪ Of note, respondents across all stakeholder groups gave statistically similar ratings for these key indicators of the WBG’s performance. 7.1 Positive influence on shaping development policy FY24 7.1 FY21 Effectiveness in helping Lesotho 7.0 achieve results^ 6.8 6.6 Helps end poverty in Lesotho 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Lesotho. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Lesotho. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Lesotho. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Lesotho. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective is the WBG in helping Lesotho achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective ^Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY21: "Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectivenes s in Lesotho. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development resul ts in 11 Lesotho? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 7.3 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Effectiveness in helping Lesotho 6.7 respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of 8- to achieve results 7.1 10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one 7.8 can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the Trust the WBG to do what 6.6 WBG, the more positive perceptions they have of the is right for Lesotho* WBG and its work. 6.7 7.6 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue Relevant role in development 7.0 to increase positive perceptions. 6.3 7.7 Alignment with development 6.7 priorities* 6.0 7.6 Positive influence on shaping 6.7 development policy* 5.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Lesotho? High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Lesotho? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significantly different between Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Lesotho. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree levels of familiarity The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Lesotho. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Lesotho. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective is the WBG in helping Lesotho achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 12 Lesotho On Par with FY23 Eastern and Southern Africa and IDA Countries on Key Performance Indicators 7.2 Trust the WBG to do what is right 7.5 7.1 7.2 Relevant role in development 7.3 7.1 Lesotho FY24 7.1 Alignment with development priorities 6.8 Eastern and 6.7 Southern Africa FY23 7.1 IDA FY23 Positive influence on shaping 7.2 development policy 6.9 7.0 Effectiveness in helping to achieve 7.1 results 6.8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating FY23 Eastern and Southern Africa countries: Kenya, São Tomé & Príncipe, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. 13 Q FY23 IDA countries: Central Africa Republic, Djibouti, Ghana, Guinea, Honduras, Kyrgyz Republic, Mali, Nepal, São Tomé & Príncipe, Tanzania, and The Gambia. Stakeholder Trends across Performance Indicators Respondents from local government had the highest mean rating across the aggregated responses to the eighteen All Respondents 7.0 COS indicator questions, whereas Parliamentarians had the lowest ratings; however, this difference did not reach statistical significance. Local Government 7.9 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave higher Academia / Research Center 6.9 ratings across the aggregated indicator questions compared to respondents who did not collaborate with the WBG; however, this difference did not reach statistical significance : Civil Society 6.7 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 7.1 Government Institution 6.7 Do not collaborate = 6.7 Private Sector 6.6 Parliamentarian 6.3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Aggregated Indicator Questions Q All Indicator Questions asked on a Scale from 1 to 10. Click here for details of these Indicator Questions. 14 15 World Bank Group’s Support in Development Areas “The World Bank in Lesotho should be targeted and address the needs of the Country. There should be the right loans for the right programmes.” (Parliamentarian Respondent) “The most important thing is to develop projects and programmes that are demand-driven and not influenced by the interest of the World Bank.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho? (N=118) Development Areas Agriculture / food security 53% for WBG Focus Youth development Private sector development 45% 49% As in FY21, agriculture / food security, private sector Education 30% development, and jobs were among the top areas in which Jobs 22% stakeholders would like the WBG to focus its resources in FY24. High for Parliament Youth development was the #2 priority in FY24. Education was of Energy 22% (44%) much greater priority in FY24, identified by more than four times as Health / pandemic preparedness 20% many respondents compared to FY21, becoming the #4 Transport infrastructure 19% High for government institutions (50%) development priority in Lesotho. Climate change 18% Energy and climate change were also of much greater priority, Tourism development 18% identified as a top priority by three times as many respondents in FY24 as in FY21. Environment / natural resource management 16% Public sector governance 15% Digital infrastructure development 15% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG High for private could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lesotho? Trade 15% sector (40%) “Facilitate the development of private sector and infrastructure, and Water / sanitation 15% High for Parliament food security projects.” (Academia Respondent) Debt management 15% (38%) Macroeconomic stability 13% “Support areas focusing on youth and women development.” (Parliamentarian Respondent) Financial markets development 12% Social protection 9% “Intensify investment in agriculture, provide more funding for climate resilience infrastructure. Put more into health facilities.” Social inclusion 8% (Government Institution Respondent) Gender equity 8% Urban development 7% Disaster risk management 6% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in Lesotho? Regional integration 3% 16 Q (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=150) Effectiveness of WBG’s Support in Sectoral Areas The WBG’s work in agriculture and food security received the highest effectiveness ratings. Of note, respondents in this year’s survey rated the WBG’s Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth work in education, social inclusion, regional integration, energy, and 6.4 water/sanitation significantly lower than in FY21. Public sector governance 7.0 6.1 Human Development Macroeconomic stability 6.6 5.9 Gender equity Private sector development 6.4 6.2 5.7 FY24 6.6 Debt sustainability Health / nutrition 7.1 FY21 5.6 6.3 FY24 Regional integration* 7.1 Education* 7.2 FY21 5.5 Trade 6.5 6.3 Social protection 7.1 5.5 Job creation / employment 6.2 6.1 Social inclusion* 7.2 Infrastructure Environmental Sustainability 6.5 Water supply and sanitation* 7.3 6.8 Agriculture and food security 7.0 6.0 Transport 6.0 Environment / natural resource 6.2 FY24 5.7 mgmt. 5.8 Energy / extractives* FY21 6.7 FY24 *Significant difference 5.7 FY21 Climate change between years 5.6 6.7 Digital development 6.4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in Lesotho? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective Q (If you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know”) 17 18 World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Lesotho “WBG could work more closely with other development partners, including bilateral donors and multilateral agencies, to improve coordination and alignment of development assistance in Lesotho. This would help avoid duplication of efforts and ensure that development assistance is more effectively targeted to address the country's most pressing needs.” (Local Government Respondent) “Not to impose projects but develop projects that address priorities of the country… In developing the projects/programmes, the Bank should work with relevant ministries to develop projects/programmes.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho?(N=1118) The WBG Increasingly Seen as an Effective Partner In FY24, respondents perceived the WBG more as a long- term partner, that is open and responsive, and significantly more accessible than in FY21. Being a long-term partner to 8.4 Lesotho 8.0 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Openness (sharing data and 7.0 could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho? other information) 6.9 “Effective communication with stakeholders and constant monitoring of projects.” (Local Government Respondent) Access to WBG staff and 6.6 “Provide more support in ensuring that the findings and data in experts* FY24 the knowledge is put into practice where necessary, especially 5.7 FY21 policies.” (Academia Respondent) “Less use of consultants but more capacitation of local Responsiveness to needs in 6.5 government officials and non-interference of operations of WBG Lesotho financed projects.” (Government Institution Respondent) 6.4 “Work more with local partners, especially the CSO and CBOs, for locally grown solutions and ownership of initiatives and Flexibility when circumstances 6.4 always check progress and monitor investments through change in Lesotho^ interacting with beneficiaries at the local level and local CBOs.” 5.8 (Civil Society Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of the following? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility 19 and flexibility to changes in country context asked in FY21. *Significant difference between years The WBG Increasingly Seen as Effectively Collaborating with Stakeholders 8.0 National government 7.7 In FY24, respondents perceived the WBG as collaborating more with the National government, other development partners, the private sector, and significantly more with civil 7.4 Other development partners society compared to FY21. 6.9 6.7 Civil society* In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG 5.4 could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho? “The World Bank should have [the] ability to listen instead of 6.6 Academia / research centers imposing programmes and always influencing politicians to FY24 follow their ideas.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) FY21 “Work DIRECTLY with academia and private sector in the area 6.5 Private sector of innovation .” (Academia Respondent) 5.8 “Collaborate more with the government ministries in terms of the governance of the WB projects so that the projects are tailor- 6.5 made to meet [the] specific needs of Basotho because they are Parliament of Lesotho isolated as of now. They work and plan with the project staff, not considering the ministry, and create tension. This results in the project not performing according to the required standards, 6.2 hence, why the projects collapse after the World Bank Local government exits.” (Government Principal Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Lesotho, in terms of collaborating with the following Q groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significant difference between years 20 Stakeholders want the Bank to Collaborate More with Private Sector and Youth Organizations Respondents in this year’s survey indicated that, Top for private sector (77%) and government Private sector 45% in addition to its partnership with the National institutions (60%) government, the WBG should collaborate more Top for civil society with private sector and youth organizations. (70%) and local Youth organizations 38% government (43%) Academia / research 26% In your opinion, what is the most important thing centers the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho? Civil society 21% “Intensify collaboration and capacitation of the local government for better execution and implementation of High for government Local government 17% institutions (31%) and projects. Engage more NGOs for their knowledge work local government (29%) for sustainable community projects. Private sector engagement improved and capacitated to offload the Top for Parliament Central Bank of Lesotho 15% already bloated public sector.” (39%) (Civil Society Respondent) Other development 14% “Partner with youth organizations in the most critical partners aspects that will create employment for new graduates... Decentralize World Bank community Parliament of Lesotho 11% projects for better improvement, on an equal basis countrywide, inclusive of all relevant genders.” (Academia Respondent) Media 5% Other 2% In addition to its partnership with the national government, which of the following Q should the WBG collaborate with more to have greater impact in Lesotho? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=133) 21 22 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “Tailor its work and assistance to Lesotho's context in relation to culture and customs, education, economic, and political landscape.” (Parliamentarian Respondent) “Include all relevant stakeholders on a district level when having a particular program/project in that specific district. Try to disseminate timely information on its digital platforms and hold frequent meetings to share more knowledge.” (Local Government Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho? (N=118) Financial Resources Financial resources (e.g., budget support, investment lending, 58% considered the Bank’s grants, trust funds) Greatest Value Capacity development and training 35% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Technical assistance and could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho? implementation support (incl. 35% Of more value project design and implementation) to government “WBG could also improve its effectiveness by focusing on institutions (50%) capacity building, particularly in the areas of governance, public financial management, and service delivery. This could help Knowledge and analytical products 24% improve the effectiveness and sustainability of development (e.g., data, reports, policy notes) projects and programs in the long-term.” (Local Government Respondent) Development partner coordination 13% “More policy monitoring and implementation capacity building project management capacity building in Government.” (Government Institution Respondent) Mobilizing third party financial Of more value to “Provide short-term budget support to the Government of resources (incl. both public and 10% private sector (35%) Lesotho to support public investment, initiatives aimed at private) turning the economy around, and expanding our tax base. The support should be aimed at enabling/capacitating the private Convening / bringing together sector to lead the growth in real terms, even if it means 10% different groups of stakeholders technical support to amend laws for the private sector to lead the economic transformation, so be it. In that way, the WBG would have added value.” (Government Institution Respondent) Other 2% Which WBG instruments do you VALUE the most in Lesotho? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=148) 23 WBG Seen as Insisting on Accountability, Effectively Monitoring/Evaluating Projects, and Increasingly More Timely in its Lending 7.4 The WBG insists on accountability In terms of the WBG’s financial instruments, respondents had through its lending the highest levels of agreement that the WBG insists on accountability through its lending, that the WBG effectively The WBG effectively monitors and 7.3 monitors and evaluates its projects, and that the WBG evaluates the projects it supports provides financial support in a timely manner (significantly in Lesotho 7.5 improved since FY21). ▪ Of note, Parliamentarians and respondents from civil society The WBG provides financial 7.2 had significantly lower levels of agreement that the support in a timely manner^* 6.1 conditions of the WBG’s financing are competitive compared to respondents from other stakeholder groups (means = 5.3 The WBG’s Environmental and 7.0 and 5.1, respectively). Social Framework requirements are reasonable 6.9 FY24 FY21 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG The conditions of the WBG’s 6.6 could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho? financing are competitive compared to markets “More policy monitoring and implementation capacity building Project management capacity building in Government.” The WBG’s financial instruments 6.1 (Government Institution Respondent) meet the needs of Lesotho 6.0 “Accountability in projects and project implementation in line with the needs of Basotho.” (Civil Society Respondent) The WBG’s conditions on its 6.1 lending are reasonable 6.2 “Effective communication with stakeholders and constant monitoring of projects.” (Local Government Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q ^Compared to "The World Bank Group disburses funds promptly" in FY21 *Significant difference between years 24 77% of Respondents Have Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work; Those Who Did were More Satisfied with the Quality and its Timeliness Nearly 8 in 10 respondents reported having I anticipate using the WBG’s knowledge 8.2 used the WBG’s knowledge work in the past. work in the future 8.2 The WBG brings global expertise to Lesotho 7.9 as part of its knowledge work No 7.4 23% Working with the WBG increases Lesotho’s 7.6 Have you ever institutional capacity used the 7.8 Have you ever WBG’s used the WBG’s knowledge knowledge 7.4 work? work? I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in Lesotho Yes 6.2 Yes No 77% 7.3 The WBG’s knowledge work is timely 6.2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Have you ever used the WBG’s knowledge work, including participating in workshops or training programs? (Percentage of Respon dents, N=132) Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 25 WBG Knowledge Work Perceived More Positively, especially at Increasing Institutional Capacity Respondents had the highest levels of agreement that I anticipate using the WBG’s knowledge 8.1 they anticipate using WBG knowledge work in the work in the future future. In addition, respondents this year had higher levels of agreement that the WBG brings global The WBG brings global expertise to Lesotho 7.8 expertise to Lesotho, that working with the WBG as part of its knowledge work^ 7.6 increases Lesotho’s institutional capacity Working with the WBG increases Lesotho’s 7.5 (significantly improved), and that the WBG’s knowledge institutional capacity* 6.8 work is timely compared to respondents in FY21. Significance of contribution to development 7.5 results in Lesotho 7.5 In your opinion, what is the most important thing I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 7.3 the WBG could do to help increase FY24 knowledge work in Lesotho its effectiveness in Lesotho? FY21 “In-depth country needs and options analysis, working 7.2 The WBG’s knowledge work is timely closely with technocrats and policymakers. Do not give 6.9 loans to the government that do not or may not have an When I need to consult the WBG’s 7.1 economic impact. Improve in the area of consultations.” knowledge work, I know how to find it (Government Institution Respondent) The WBG’s publications are adequately 6.9 “To make a close follow-up on any advice given to the disseminated* 6.1 National government of Lesotho for implementation and the guideline.” (Parliamentarian Respondent) The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 6.6 Lesotho’s context^^ 6.7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG’s knowledge work makes to development results in Lesotho? Q Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to “Source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY21. 26 ^^Compared to “Adaptable to Lesotho’s specific development challenges and country circumstances" in FY21 *Significant difference between years 27 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Lesotho “By helping entrepreneurs and making sure that the money is used based on interests of the nation. And to do follow-ups where money was issued.” (Civil Society Respondent) “The WBG should improve its engagement with stakeholders, particularly government officials, when initiating and proposing projects for the government. More often than not, the WBG comes up with ready-made project proposals without adequately engaging the officers of the Ministries for which the Bank wants to provide technical and financial assistance. The Bank prefers to work with the Project Management Unit/Project Implementation Unit staff without engaging the officers of the Ministries and so this does not help to impart knowledge to the government officials.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho?(N=118) How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Engage with more non-government stakeholders, build capacity, and better align with Lesotho’s needs, context, and capacity. Engagement Collaborate with stakeholders outside of the Operational Increase government accountability in the government, especially youth, private sector, success of WBG projects Effectiveness 31% and local government Financial Support Ensure sustainability of WBG projects Better tailor its assistance to Lesotho 10% More alignment with Lesotho’s context, Improve coordination and alignment of policies, and capacity assistance with other development partners Results Engagement Communication Create greater awareness of the WBG’s work and engagement opportunities Focus Areas Should be demand-driven Communication 10% 26% Youth development Jobs Operational Results More monitoring and evaluation of projects; Effectiveness hold government accountable 10% Human development Align WBG projects to Lesotho’s needs Infrastructure Knowledge Focus Area Local context matters – adapt solutions and best practices Knowledge Build local capacity among youth, private sector, and local government Financial More financial support for private sector and 10% start-ups Ensure WBG projects are building capacity Support within ministries More grants instead of loans 4% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho? (N=118) 28 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Engage with more non-government stakeholders, build capacity, and better align with Lesotho’s needs, context, and capacity. Engagement Focus Area “Consultation with key stakeholders and be responsive to the views of stakeholders; “It is imperative for the WBG to find out more of what Basotho needs and try to help out by engage more local consultants who understand local context.” prioritizing those needs before they assist. For example, youth unemployment, job creation, (Government Institution Respondent) etc.” (Local Government Respondent) “It shouldn't only engage with the government.” (Private Sector Respondent) “The WBG could help to reduce poverty and improve its human development by investing in “Include as many stakeholders as possible.” (Local Government Respondent) education, health, and social promotion programs.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Focus on capacitating youth and private sector.” (Government Principal Respondent) “Ask those who are receiving support, what their needs are. We were allocated money and told what to do; we could have used it for more pressing needs.” (Academia Respondent) “Use and capacitate local experts.” (Academia Respondent) “Put field officers in remote areas for extended periods of time so that they have a “One of the most important steps the WBG could take to increase its effectiveness in fundamental grasp of conditions on the ground. Global institutions are top heavy and Lesotho is to prioritize investments in infrastructure that directly benefit the population and irrelevant because they are detached and aloof.” (Private Sector Respondent) contribute to long-term development goals.” (Local Government Respondent) Knowledge “Work with existing government systems and should not create own parallel systems. The PIUs have not benefited the country. Planners and economists in the ministries are not capacitated as the WB hires its own staff, which does not interact with the Planning Units daily; hence, no knowledge transfer.” (Government Institution Respondent) “1. Bring in a participative Task Team Leader, not the PIU's critique. 2. Bring in the PIU at the design stage, not during the implementation stage. 3. Stick to the principle of hiring professionals at PIU, not politically appointed staff. 4. The Task Team Leader should not be a leader during the missions. 5. The WBG should host regular Implementation Support sessions. 6. Because of changing environments everywhere and some practices becoming obsolete, the WBG should insist on capacity building that is relevant to individual Ministries and/or countries.” (Government Institution Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho?(N=118) 29 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Engage with more non-government stakeholders, build capacity, and better align with Lesotho’s needs, context, and capacity. Operation Effectiveness Communication “Dissemination of research results to reach people who need that information, e.g., as part “The WBG can increase its effectiveness in Lesotho if it assists all three arms of of the implementation, they could design ‘post-research’ programs that enable transmission government, namely Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, to adopt and implement of information to relevant stakeholders.” (Civil Society Respondent) accountability and ethical standards expected of such institutions. Otherwise, corruption and white-collar crime will continue crippling the country's economy, effectively nullifying the efforts of WBG and other development partners.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Teach / familiarize its different programs to Basotho so that many citizens can understand and even participate in WBG's different initiatives.” (Local Government Respondent) “Stop giving the government money without follow-ups. Give money to youth organizations for greater development but make follow-ups.” (Civil Society Respondent) Results “Ensure sustainability of projects where possible, e.g, for construction, the government “Work more with local partners, especially the CSO and CBOs , for locally grown solutions should have a clear maintenance plan, and for soft projects, the government should have a and ownership of initiatives and always check progress and monitor investments through take-over strategy.” (Government Institution Respondent) interacting with beneficiaries at the local level and local CBOs.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Align with the government policies and procedures.” (Government Institution Respondent) “If I had enough power I would say WBG should run its project without the governance interference.” (Local Government Respondent) “Tailor its policies to Lesotho’s context. i.e., legislation and policies during the implementation of projects, more often than not, its policy guidelines are tailored towards the developed worlds [with little] recognition given to developing worlds like Lesotho.” Financial Support (Government Institution Respondent) “The WB should consider giving more grants as opposed to loans. The Bank should help Lesotho come out of its miry clay and help stabilize the economy.” “I would highly recommend that the World Bank group tone down the pace it applies when (Government Institution Respondent) assisting Lesotho in developing projects. Most of the time, we amend projects as we move along because they were rushed for approval while the preparations were not ready.” “WBG can create a high-quality with Lesotho start-ups or scale-ups by supporting Venture (Government Institution Respondent) Capitalists, accelerators and incubators.” (Private Sector Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho?(N=118) 30 31 Communication and Outreach “Promote activities and increase access to resources.” (Parliamentarian Respondent) “There should be dissemination of information on different platforms for people to access information easily.” (Local Government Respondent) “WGB should, as a priority, engage in a communication & visibility campaign, i.e., most of us just know there is a World Bank, besides seeing a newspaper advert of a project seeking tenders for a World Bank funded project, we don't know what it does.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Dissemination of its mandate and available products / opportunities to key stakeholders in Lesotho.” (Academia Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Lesotho?(N=118) Direct Contact and Events were Most Preferred for Receiving WBG Communication Respondents most preferred to receive Bank communications through direct contact and events/conferences/seminars/workshops (in person or online), followed by e-newsletters. Preferred WBG Source All Government Private Academia / Respondents Parliamentarian Institution Local Government Civil Society Sector Research Center Direct contact with staff (e.g., in person, 65% 64% 57% 90% 57% 69% 36% virtually, phone, email)* Event / conference / seminar / workshop 50% 36% 40% 53% 61% 62% 71% (in person or online) e-Newsletters* 35% 36% 60% 11% 17% 23% 57% Direct messaging 18% 14% 9% 37% 26% 23% 7% (e.g., WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) 17% 14% 20% 5% 26% 8% 21% How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=131) *Significantly different between stakeholder groups 32 Nearly 8 in 10 Engaged with the WBG Recently, most often through Direct Contact or Events 77% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG recently. Respondents most often reported seeing/hearing about the WBG through direct contact and events/conferences/seminars (in person or online). Direct contact with WBG staff 53% High for government institutions (76%); Event (in person or online) 48% low for academia (25%) and private sector (38%) WBG websites 38% No 23% Television (TV) 34% Social media 30% Do you recall seeing or hearing Newspapers (print or online) 25% anything about the WBG Radio 17% recently? e-Newsletters 12% Yes 77% Direct messaging 7% Blogs 4% Podcasts 2% Other 2% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=133) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=102) 33 WBG Work on Food Security, Youth, and Climate Change were the Most Commonly Recalled Topics Respondents most frequently recalled WBG work or research on food security, youth development, and climate Food security 48% change, followed by ending poverty in developing countries. Youth development 44% ▪ Respondents from civil society and academia were Climate change 43% significantly less likely to recall WBG work on food security (24% and 17%, respectively ) compared to respondents Ending poverty in developing 40% from other stakeholder groups. countries ▪ Respondents from the private sector were the most likely Women empowerment 35% to recall WBG work on youth development (75%) whereas Job creation / employment 31% respondents from government institutions and academia were significantly less likely (21% and 25%, respectively). Human capital 27% ▪ Parliamentarians and respondents from the private sector were the most likely to recall WBG work on climate change Pandemic preparedness 26% (70% and 75%, respectively), whereas respondents from Debt relief for developing countries 25% civil society and academia were significantly less likely (12% and 25%, respectively). Digital economy 22% ▪ Parliamentarians were significantly more likely to recall WBG work on pandemic preparedness (70%), whereas WBG economic forecasts 20% respondents from civil society were significantly less likely Changes to the WBG financial and 18% (6%). operational model Other 7% If you answered “Yes” for E2, what topics were included in what you saw or heard about WBG’s work or research? 34 Q (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=102) Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concerns: Jobs and Food Security Nearly all respondents were very concerned about the loss of jobs and decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity when it comes to the potential impacts of climate change in Lesotho. More frequent and severe droughts and land and forest degradation were also of great concern to respondents. These key areas of concern should be taken into consideration to make communications about climate change more impactful. Very concerned Somewhat concerned A little concerned Not concerned at all Loss of jobs 95% Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 94% More frequent and severe droughts 85% Land and forest degradation 80% More frequent and severe floods 76% Decreased water availability / quality 74% More frequent and severe heatwaves 73% Extinction of plant / animal species 70% Climate-driven migration 55% Air pollution 54% More frequent and intense wild fires 48% Increased erosion of shoreline 45% Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 26% Q How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in Lesotho? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~118) 35 Message Recall Increases Familiarity and Leads to More Positive Perceptions of the WBG and its Work 7.5 Familiarity with the WBG 6.1 7.4 Trust the WBG to do what is right for Lesotho 6.7 Do you recall seeing or hearing anything 7.4 about the WBG Relevant role in development recently? 6.4 7.2 Yes Positive influence on shaping development policy 6.2 No 7.1 Aligned with development priorities 6.6 7.0 Effective in helping Lesotho achieve development results 7.2 6.6 The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Lesotho 5.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating These findings suggest that respondents who are more frequently exposed to information about the WBG or who actively engage with WBG staff and knowledge work (read research papers, etc.) are also more likely to hold more positive views about the WBG’s work. How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Lesotho? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Lesotho? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much Q Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree: The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Lesotho. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Lesotho. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priori ties for Lesotho. 36 How effective is the WBG in helping Lesotho achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 37 Demographics of the Sample and Detailed Methodology Demographics of the Sample What is the primary specialization Do you of your work? (N=129) collaborate/work with the World Bank Education 16% Group (WBG) Other 16% in Lesotho? No 45% (N=150) Yes Public sector governance 14% 55% Respondents from government institutions Agriculture and food security 9% were significantly more likely to indicate that they collaborate with the WBG Privates sector development / trade 8% (92%) whereas respondents from civil society and the private sector were significantly less likely to collaborate with Macroeconomics, fiscal / debt mgmt. 7% the WBG Generalist (specialize in multiple (26% and 27%, respectively). 7% sectors) Social protection 4% ICSID, 5% Environment / natural resource mgmt. 4% MIGA 14% Health / pandemic preparedness 3% Which of the following WBG Digital development 3% agencies do you IFC Energy 3% collaborate/work 32% with in Lesotho? World Bank Water / sanitation 2% (N=81) (IDA) Percentages equal more than 100% 95% Legal / human rights 2% because respondents could choose multiple agencies within the WBG. Transport 2% Climate change 2% 38 Demographics of the Sample (continued) What’s your age? (N=132) Prefer not to specify, 1% 25 or younger 9% 26-35 14% Female 36-45 27% 44% What is your gender? 46-55 32% Male (N=133) 56% 56 and above 17% Prefer not to specify 2% Maseru 51% Leribe 12% Berea 11% Which best represents Mohale’s Hoek 8% your geographic Mafeteng 7% location? (N=132) Quthing 7% Butha-Buthe 2% Thaba-Tseka 2% Qacha’s Nek 1% 39 Detailed Methodology From January to February 2024, a total of 437 stakeholders in Lesotho were invited to Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024 provide their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Opinion Survey (COS). A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the fielding agency. Government Principals: Office of the Participants were drawn from the Offices of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, and President, Prime Minister, Minister, 5% 4% Parliamentarian Parliament, government institutions, local governments, bilateral or multilateral agencies, the private sector, civil society, academia, and the media. Government Institutions: Employee of a Ministry, Department, Project Implementation Of these stakeholders, 152 participated in the survey (26% response rate). Respondents 40% 24% Unit, Independent Government Institution, completed the questionnaire via an online platform or during face-to-face interviews with Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise fielding agency representatives. Local Government 0% 14% The results of this year’s survey were compared to the FY21 Survey with a response Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, rate of 40% (N=109). Development Organization, Development 9% 3% Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time, but Bank, UN Agency also changes in respondent samples, changes in methodology, and changes to the survey Civil Society Organization: Local and instrument itself. To reduce the influence of the latter factor, only those questions with similar regional NGOs, Community-Based response scales/options were analyzed. This year’s survey saw a much better distribution of Organization, Private Foundation, 19% 18% Professional/Trade Association, respondents across stakeholder groups with greater outreach to and/or response from local Faith-Based Group, Youth Group governments and academia but a decrease from government institutions. These differences in stakeholder composition between the two years should be taken into consideration when Private Sector: Private Company, Financial 18% 10% interpreting the results of the past-year comparison analyses. Sector Organization, Private Bank Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted Academia / Research Center 3% 11% throughout the report. Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Lesotho Media 6% 5% COS FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Total Number of Respondents 108 152 Library, along with the survey microdata and this report. 40 Indicator Questions Every country that engages in the Country Opinion Survey (COS) must include specific indicator questions, several of which are aggregated for the World Bank Group’s annual Corporate Scorecard and are highlighted in red below. A1_5. How much do you trust the World Bank Group to do what is right for Lesotho? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping Lesotho achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective A3. How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG's knowledge work make to development results in Lesotho? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree A4. The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Lesotho. A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Lesotho. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Lesotho. A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Lesotho To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of each of the following? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C1_1. Responsiveness to needs in Lesotho C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in Lesotho C1_5. Being a long-term partner to Lesotho To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Lesotho, in terms of collaborating with the following groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C2_1. National government C2_4. Private sector C2_5. Civil society C2_6. Other development partners To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree C4_1. The WBG’s financial instruments (i.e., loans, credits, grants, trust funds) meet the needs of Lesotho. C6_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in Lesotho. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to Lesotho’s context. 41 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org