Lesotho stands at a turning point and NUL-Energy Research Cente (ERC) is at the centre of it all. The transport sector is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the country.The sector has had emissions increase by about 50% over the last 12 years. This not only worsens climate impacts but also contributes to dangerous air pollution, particularly in urban centers; Maseru being the worst affected. For many Basotho, especially women, majority who work in factories, reliable, safe, and clean transport remains a daily challenge.
That’s where the MaZero Project comes in.
Led by the Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI) in partnership with the National University of Lesotho (NUL)-ERC, and Technologies for Economic Development (TED), the MaZero project is spearheading Lesotho’s transition to electric mobility powered by renewable energy.
During a recent kickoff visit from April 28 to May 3, 2025, THI and NUL officially launched this bold initiative—marking the start of a transformative journey toward decarbonizing Lesotho’s transport sector. This was concluded with a stakeholder engagement meeting which established an ongoing network throughout this transformative project Rollout
💡 What Makes MaZero a Game-Changer?
- Solar-powered charging stations on the University campuses in Roma (Main Campus) and Institute of Extra Mural Studies (IEMS) designed for local conditions, paving the way for electric vehicles across Lesotho.
- A strong commitment to women’s empowerment by promoting their independence and safety in mobility—breaking barriers in access and participation.
- Local capacity-building and knowledge-sharing, ensuring Basotho lead the way in operating, maintaining, and expanding the e-mobility network.
- The formation of a national e-mobility stakeholder network, creating a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and sustained impact.
With the first project activities underway—including infrastructure design, data gathering, and stakeholder engagement—MaZero aims to build a comprehensive roadmap for scaling e-mobility across the country.
This is more than a pilot. It’s a vision for a cleaner, more inclusive, and future-ready Lesotho.
