PARLIAMENT OF KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
SENATE
LEGISLATION COMMITTEE
REPORT WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION REGULATIONS 2025
REPORT N0: SEPTEMBER 2025
1.0 INTRODUCTION
On the 03rd April 2025 the Workmen’s Compensation Regulations was tabled on
and subsequently referred to the Committee .The Ministry of Labour and
Employment appeared before the Legislation Committee. The report herein is
submitted and presents a summary of the Committees deliberations and
recommendations on the Bill.
1.1 TERMS OF REFERENCE
The terms of reference of the Legislation Committee are provided as follows in
Standing Orders (90):
(1) There shall be established under this Standing Order a Legislation Committee
which shall continue for the term of the Senate.
(2) The Legislation Committee shall, in accordance with these Standing Orders:-
(a) Consider bills, subordinate laws tabled in accordance with section 27A of
the Interpretation Act No. 19 of 1977 as amended, or other matters which
are referred to it by the President or by resolution of the Senate;
(b) Consider and investigate the constitutionality, legality, conflicting
provisions and offensiveness of bills or subordinate laws or any provision
thereof; and
(c) Perform other functions, tasks and duties as may be resolved by the Senate.
(3) The Legislation Committee may:-
(a) Call for papers, hear oral evidence, which may, by resolution of the
committee, be recorded and transcribed;
(b) Consult and liaise with Government ministries and departments;
(c) Ensure the attendance of any person at a meeting of the committee in terms
of the Parliamentary Powers and Privileges Act of 1994; and
(d) Establish sub-committees
(4) Upon conclusion of business laid down for their consideration, the legislation
Committee must adopt a report and may make recommendations to the Senate
which shall then make final decisions.
2.0 COMPOSITION OF THE LEGISLATION COMMITTEE
- Hon. Senator S. Motsamai – Chairperson
- Hon. Senator K.L.K. Theko
- Hon. Senator B.G. Api
- Hon. Senator M. Kanetsi
- Hon. Senator Dr T. Lebese
- Hon. Senator L.M. Seeiso
- Hon. Senator M.M. Moshoeshoe
- Hon. Senator T. D. Bereng
- Hon. Senator P.L.P. Peete
- Hon. Senator S.B. Seeiso
- Hon. Senator L. Khoaele
- Hon. Senator M.T Mohale
- Hon. Senator J.A. Motsoene
- Hon. Senator S.S. Nkuebe
3.0 SECRETARIAT
Mr Steven Mokoaqo Committee Clerk
Mrs ‘Maseephephe Matete (Adv) Chief Legal Officer
Mr T’seliso Papiso (Adv) Legal officer
4.0 OPERATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE
The Committee deliberates on the Bills referred from the National Assembly and
subordinate laws referred in line with the Interpretation Act.
PART A
5.0 BRIEF BY STAKEHOLDERS
On 03rd April 2025, the Ministry of Labour and Employment appeared before the
Legislation Committee to provide a brief on the Regulations.
The Ministry presented that Workmen’s Compensation Regulations, 2025 objective
was to update and strengthen the existing compensation mechanisms to reflect
modern labour conditions and international standards.
The Ministry revised the ceilings workmen’s compensation under the Workmen’s
Compensation Regulations, 2025. A significant increase was noted in the
compensation for fatal cases, which is adjusted from M240 000 to M300 625.00.
This adjustment reflects the Ministry’s intent to better support the dependents of
deceased workers and to align compensation with the current economic conditions.
The ministry also proposed an upward revision in compensation for cases of
permanent total and partial incapacity. Compensation for permanent total incapacity
is set to increase from M265 200 to M334 000, while permanent partial incapacity
is proposed to be adjusted from M267 200 to M334 000. These increases aim to
recognize the long-term impact of serious workplace injuries on affected
workers and ensure adequate financial support to maintain a decent
quality of life.
In addition to disability and fatality benefits, the ministry outlined revisions to
medical-related compensation. The ceiling for medical, surgical, hospital treatment
and skilled services is adjusted from M33 400 to M41 750, addressing the rising
costs of healthcare. Furthermore, reasonable charges incurred in transferring a
workman to and from treatment facilities will increase from M5 010 to M6 263. The
minimum amount of compensation payable has also been raised from M6 010 to M7
PART B
6.0 OBSERVATIONS
The proposed increase represents a deliberate move towards more equitable
and humane treatment of workers and their families in cases of loss of life due
to occupational accidents or diseases.
The proposed amounts demonstrate the Ministry’s commitment to
strengthening social protection for injured workers.
These revisions were as necessary and timely, ensuring that injured workers
receive adequate and realistic support in covering their treatment and recovery
expenses.
The Workmen’s Compensation Regulations, 2025 marked a progressive step
towards enhancing the protection and welfare of workers in Lesotho.
The Ministry of Labour and Employment displayed a clear commitment to
updating outdated compensation frameworks and aligning them with present
day socio-economic realities.
The proposed increases in compensation for fatalities, permanent
incapacities, medical expenses, and other related costs, reflect a policy
direction that prioritizes dignity, fairness, and support for affected workers
and their families
The Workmen’s Compensation Regulations, 2025, as it reflects
comprehensive consultations, aligns with the objectives of the Workmen’s
Compensation Act, 1977, and responds to the evolving needs of workers and
employers in Lesotho.
The proposed regulations offer substantial improvements in compensation
and medical support for injured and deceased workers, promoting greater
social protection and fairness in the workplace.
7.0 RECOMMENDATIONS
That Workman’s Compensation Regulations be allowed to come into operation.
8.0 CONCLUSION
Subject to Standing Order 52 (3), the Legislation Committee wishes to submit the
report for adoption by the House.