13/11/2026
We only noticed this Facebook post today, when my day was already committed. If time allows, we may arrive very late, but we would like to share our input on this great initiative.
We commend Standard Lesotho Bank and the Law Society of Lesotho for bringing legal guidance closer to businesses.
As a business owner and organiser of the Legacy Leadership Summit, I believe this initiative offers an opportunity to address the challenges that weaken business cash flow and affect our ability to service loans.
For many local businesses, Government is their biggest customer. When Government does not pay on time, the consequences are substantial. Salaries, suppliers, utilities, taxes and bank instalments remain due, even though payment for services already delivered has not arrived.
A business can therefore have customers, deliver its services and earn income on paper, yet struggle to meet its obligations because the money remains unpaid.
Tax clearance delays can make this situation worse. When certificates are not issued promptly, or are valid for short periods, businesses face repeated interruptions in securing work and receiving payments. RSL’s announced move to 12-month validity should translate into consistent practice, supported by timely issuance and clear reasons for exceptions.
There is also an imbalance that deserves serious attention: businesses face heavy penalties for late tax payments, while, in our experience, Government refuses to pay interest when it delays settling our invoices. Businesses consequently carry the financing costs and penalties arising from money that Government itself has not paid.
My appeal is for the bank and legal fraternity to champion reciprocal payment accountability.
If Government can legislate penalties for businesses that pay taxes late, it should also bind itself through a clear legal framework requiring automatic interest on overdue, valid and undisputed supplier invoices. The legal team can examine existing rights and identify the reforms needed to make this protection practical and enforceable.
This would give businesses fairer protection and strengthen their ability to repay the institutions that finance them.
Banks can also help through stronger contracts, affordable payment recovery support, suitable working capital facilities and repayment arrangements that reflect realistic business cash flows.
Business owners must equally keep sound records, manage spending responsibly, honour their obligations and communicate with lenders early.
Through the Legacy Leadership Summit, we have encouraged businesses to build foundations for lasting growth. I hope this initiative becomes an ongoing partnership that addresses the causes of business vulnerability and helps preserve enterprises, jobs and livelihoods.
Thank you, Standard Lesotho Bank and the Law Society of Lesotho, for opening this important conversation.
Marethabile Sekhiba
Scenery Guesthouse
Organiser, Legacy Leadership Summit
