Lesotho is moving to expand the use of artificial intelligence in agriculture, with the government developing an AI-powered chatbot designed to help farmers access timely agricultural information and practical advice.

The initiative was highlighted by Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Nthati Moorosi during the opening of the country's third National Science, Technology and Innovation Week 2026 in Maseru.

The proposed chatbot is being developed through cooperation between the technology ministry and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition. It aims to make agricultural extension information more accessible, helping farmers obtain guidance that could support their farming activities and decision-making.

The government is also working to upgrade high-performance computing infrastructure at the Mohale’s Hoek Data Centre. The improved computing capacity is intended to support scientific modelling, advanced research, data analytics and locally relevant artificial intelligence applications.

Minister Moorosi stressed that scientific research should produce practical solutions rather than remain confined to reports and academic institutions. She encouraged universities, researchers and young innovators to develop ideas that can be tested, commercialised and used to address national challenges.

The initiatives form part of Lesotho’s wider effort to strengthen its innovation ecosystem and apply technology to agriculture, healthcare, climate resilience and economic development.

If successfully implemented, the agricultural chatbot could give farmers easier access to useful information while supporting the country's ambition to build a stronger technology-driven economy.