SUSTAINABILITY PORTFOLIO

Lesotho | 3 Years | September 2025

The People’s Matrix Association is looking for a passionate professional to join its Board of Directors, specifically in the Sustainability Portfolio.

As a community-led organisation working to advance the rights, health and dignity of LGBTIQ+ communities in Lesotho, we believe in inclusive and transparent governance that strengthens sustainability, accountability and long-term impact.

ABOUT THE SUSTAINABILITY PORTFOLIO

Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)

This portfolio provides strategic oversight in:

Organisational Planning

Project and Resource Sustainability

Fundraising and Donor Engagement

Regulatory Compliance

Risk Assessment and Mitigation

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

Qualifications:

• A qualification in Development Finance, Risk Management, Public Policy, Project Management or Monitoring and Evaluation

Experience:

• Strong understanding of sustainability frameworks, principles and best practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Project management and organizational skills.
•  Experience in fundraising, compliance oversight
• Understanding of non-profit governance, resource mobilisation and grant accountability
• Commitment to human rights, equity and community-driven development
• Ability to advise and guide long-term strategic decisions that ensure the organisation’s viability and resilience

BOARD MEMBERSHIP EXPECTATIONS

• Attend quarterly board meetings and special strategic sessions 
• Performs an oversight role on the development and implementation of sustainability strategies, monitoring performance, and ensuring that the organization is resilient and responsible in the long term. 
• Support in mobilising partnerships and resources
• Provides guidance on the identification and mitigation of sustainability-related risks, 
• Monitor compliance with legal and donor standards
• Contribute to the sustainability and governance agenda of the organisation
• Provide expert input and guidance to the Executive Director and senior staff on any matters related to the organisational sustainability.

TO APPLY:

Send CV, certified certificates, motivation letter and two references to:

recruitmentmatrix@proton.me

Applications must be submitted on or before 11 July 2025

Women and individuals from marginalised backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

STATEMENT TO THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE: CONCERN REGARDING HATE SPEECH, MISINFORMATION, AND INVESTIGATIVE INTEGRITY IN THE MURDER CASE OF KABELO SESELI

Date: 05 May 2025
To: Commissioner of Police
Subject: Urgent Need to Address Hate Speech and Ensure Factual Integrity in the Ongoing Investigation of Katleho Mosiuoa

The People’s Matrix Association expresses its deep concern over the handling and framing of the ongoing murder case involving Katleho Mosiuoa, charged with the brutal killing of Kabelo Seseli in Lithabaneng, Berea.

We are alarmed not only by the violent nature of this act — involving stabbing and genital mutilation — but also by the troubling and dangerous language used by law enforcement officers in court and in public statements.

1.⁠ ⁠Hate Speech by Police Officials

The public statement made by Inspector Lipuo Doli, in which he urged “banna ba iketsang banana” to “tell the truth” when approached by men, is deeply offensive and dangerous. This type of rhetoric constitutes hate speech, as it blames LGBTQI+ persons for their own victimization and reinforces harmful stereotypes. It contributes to a culture of stigma, violence, and discrimination, directly violating the constitutional rights of LGBTQI+ persons under Section 18 of the Constitution of Lesotho.

Police officers are bound to uphold the law and act with impartiality — not to publicly shame or incite prejudice against victims, especially when a case is still under investigation. Such speech may amount to institutional discrimination and victim-blaming, and it undermines public trust in the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS).

2.⁠ ⁠Inconsistencies and Omission of Key Facts

It has come to our attention that some statements made by investigating officers do not align with verified information:
• Kabelo Seseli was openly gay and lived his truth without hiding. His social media presence, particularly on Facebook, includes multiple photographs clearly showing him and the accused together. These images, alongside their digital communication trail, strongly indicate that the two had met on several occasions and had a continuing acquaintance or relationship prior to the night of the murder.
• These facts contradict the narrative that the accused was “deceived” into thinking he was meeting a woman. The pretense of ignorance cannot stand in the face of public, accessible evidence of prior contact, interaction, and possible romantic or personal engagement between the two.

This narrative, presented without critical scrutiny, raises concerns about bias in the investigation and the possibility of trying to frame a hate crime as an act of “emotional provocation” or misunderstanding.

3.⁠ ⁠Call for Immediate Action

In light of these concerns, we respectfully call upon your office to:
• Immediately censure and retract the hateful remarks made by Inspector Doli and ensure such statements are not repeated by any police personnel;
• Investigate and incorporate all available digital evidence (including social media correspondence) that contradicts the perpetrator’s version of events and support a more accurate understanding of motive;
• Acknowledge the likelihood of a hate crime and allow the court to deliberate on the full range of aggravating factors, including bias based on sexual orientation;
• Engage human rights institutions and civil society in building guidelines for the proper handling of cases involving LGBTQI+ persons to avoid revictimization and ensure due process.

The People’s Matrix Association remains committed to supporting justice, dignity, and non-discrimination in Lesotho. We urge your office to act in the spirit of constitutional responsibility and human rights.

Signed,
Tampose Mothopeng
Executive Director
The People’s Matrix Association

The People’s Matrix Association Condemns Parliamentary Decision Permitting Non-Consensual Surgeries on Intersex Children

Date: 26 November 2024 Maseru, Lesotho –

The People’s Matrix Association strongly condemns the recent parliamentary decision permitting doctors to perform surgeries on intersex children. This decision flagrantly violates Lesotho’s constitutional principles, regional and international human rights commitments, and fundamental values of dignity, bodily integrity, and self-determination.Intersex children are not inherently “wrong” or in need of correction. Their natural diversity should be respected, and they must be given the opportunity to make decisions about their own bodies when they reach an age of understanding. Medical interventions framed as “corrective surgeries” not only perpetuate harmful stereotypes but also deny intersex children their right to self-determination. Asking doctors to validate such surgeries reinforces systemic discrimination and violates the ethical principle of “do no harm.”

Human Rights Violations

The decision to allow non-consensual surgeries on intersex children contravenes the following legal and ethical principles:

Constitution of Lesotho:

Dignity: Section 4 guarantees the right to dignity for all. Forcing surgeries on intersex children undermines this principle.

Protection from Degrading Treatment: Section 8 prohibits inhuman or degrading treatment. These surgeries, which often cause physical and psychological harm, breach this safeguard.

Regional Human Rights Standards:

African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR):

Articles 2 and 5 protect against discrimination and inhuman treatment. Resolutions 275 and 552 specifically call for the prohibition of non-consensual medical procedures on intersex individuals.

African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child:

Article 4 mandates that children’s best interests must guide all actions concerning them.

International Human Rights Treaties:

Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC):

Articles 3, 19, and 24 prioritize children’s best interests, protection from harmful practices, and access to appropriate healthcare.

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR):

Article 7 prohibits cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.

International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR): Article 12 ensures the right to the highest attainable standard of health, including informed consent for medical interventions.

Irreversible Harm and Systemic Discrimination

Non-consensual surgeries on intersex children frequently result in irreversible physical and psychological harm, including incontinence, infertility, loss of sexual sensation, and severe trauma. These procedures are not only medically unnecessary but also perpetuate systemic discrimination and deny intersex individuals their right to equality and protection under the law.

Intersex children must be left alone to grow and develop in their natural state. It is only when they are of age and able to make informed decisions about their bodies that any medical interventions, if desired, should be considered.

Demands for Immediate Action

The People’s Matrix Association calls on the government of Lesotho to:

Enact a Moratorium: Immediately halt all non-consensual and medically unnecessary surgeries on intersex children.

Implement Protective Legislation: Pass laws banning such surgeries and ensuring medical interventions are performed only when medically necessary and with informed consent.

Promote Awareness and Education: Educate the public and healthcare professionals about intersex rights, the harms of unnecessary medical interventions, and the importance of respecting bodily autonomy.

Engage Stakeholders: Develop policies with input from intersex individuals, families, and advocacy organizations.

Align with Global Standards: Ensure compliance with the ACHPR, Resolutions 275 and 552, CRC, ICCPR, and ICESCR.

Call to Action

The People’s Matrix Association urges the government of Lesotho to reconsider its position and adopt a human rights-based approach to intersex individuals. Intersex children deserve the right to grow and develop free from medical interventions that are not medically necessary. Lesotho must fulfill its moral and legal obligations to protect its most vulnerable citizens, uphold their dignity, and respect their bodily autonomy.

For further inquiries, please contact:Phone: 22313368

The People’s Matrix Association was honored to participate in a significant event hosted by the Mafeteng J.J Mokitimi Circuit 651 of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. The gathering brought together members of the local faith community to explore the vital intersection of religion and sexuality, an area often met with both interest and apprehension within religious circles. The dialogue held powerful discussions on the intersection of religion and sexuality where the association’s Faith and Religion Advocacy Officer(FRAO), Dee Malelu expressed gratefulness for the opportunity to engage with such a thoughtful and open-minded community. During the dialogue, the FRAO conveyed that together we’re building bridges of understanding and love. Convention on the intersection of religion and sexuality. It’s crucial to have these conversations in spaces of faith, as we explore how love, dignity, and understanding can bring us closer to each other and the Divine. The event was marked by open and thoughtful discussions, where attendees engaged in meaningful dialogue about how faith communities can better understand and support LGBTIQ+ individuals. We were heartened by the positive reception and active participation of the attendees, who approached these conversations with a spirit of openness and mutual respect.One of the central themes of the discussion was the need to foster understanding and love, recognizing that everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, is deserving of dignity and respect. As part of the conversation, we shared insights on how religious teachings can coexist with the principles of inclusion and acceptance.A memorable moment from the event was when a participant noted, “It’s time we recognize that love transcends labels, and our faith should be a source of unity, not division.” This sentiment was echoed throughout the room, as many expressed a desire to continue these conversations and bring about positive change within their communities. As an organization that supports the entitlement of all individuals, without discrimination to enjoy the range of full range of human rights. The promotion and protection of human rights features as one of the key objectives of the organization. The People’s Matrix Association remains committed to creating inclusive spaces for LGBTIQ+ individuals within religious contexts, and today’s event was a powerful step in that direction. We believe that building bridges of understanding can help create a society where everyone feels valued and respected.As we reflect on that day’s discussions, we are filled with hope for the future and we are encouraged by the progress being made in communities like Mafeteng. We look forward to continuing our work and partnering with faith leaders to promote dignity, love, and understanding for all. We are grateful for the opportunity to share and learn together.

The People’s Matrix Association and EU Lesotho joint statement.

International Day Against Homophobia Biphobia Intersexphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), an annual event occurring on May 17th, is a global initiative that draws the attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex persons and all other persons with diverse sexual orientations, gender identity or expression, and sex characteristics (LGBTQIA+).

The People’s Matrix Association will celebrate this day on Saturday, May 18th, 2024 at Maseru Club Grounds and the European Union in Lesotho will join in solidarity. We will start with a Peace March from Setsoto Stadium to Maseru Club at 11:00 am followed by solidarity speeches from Development Partners, and other allies.

Throughout colonial history, LGBTQIA+ individuals have borne the brunt of various forms of abuse, including instances of discrimination and, tragically, even loss of life. This year’s IDAHOBIT takes place at a time when we witness alarming rates of violence against LGBTQIA+ persons worldwide. Since last year we witnessed new laws criminalising LGBTQIA+ persons, court decisions stigmatising the movement as ‘extremist’ and otherwise leading to further discrimination under the guise of ‘protecting the traditional family’. This goes together with foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), including disinformation campaigns targeting the LGBTQIA+ community spreading harmful information and fueling violence and hate speech.

Challenging societal views and stereotypes surrounding gender identities, sex characteristics and expressions ensures an inclusive Lesotho for everyone despite their apparent differences. Furthermore, constitutional provisions and acts emphasize the right to confidentiality and the prohibition of discrimination based on gender identity or expression.

“No one left behind: equality, freedom and justice for all”

The theme of 2024 is ‘No one left behind: equality, freedom and justice for all’. Just recently, the world celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Its crucial role as a global guidepost is clear, yet its assertion that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights” is a promise that remains unmet. This is especially the case for LGBTQIA+ individuals and the ones experiencing intersecting layers of inequalities. When human rights of LGBTQIA+ persons around the globe are increasingly under threat, the power of solidarity, partnership and community across national borders is imperative. This year’s IDAHOBIT theme is a call for unity: only through solidarity for each other will we create a world without injustice, where no one is left behind.

The European Union has been a steadfast supporter for the human rights of LGBTQIA+ persons globally. It has been supporting civil society organisations in their endeavours to strengthen the protection of LGBTQIA+ persons, address impunity, violence and stigma experienced by LGBTQIA+ persons, advocate for anti-discriminatory laws and laws that foster further equality, and contribute to building powerful movements across the globe, including in multilateral fora. European Union has also been engaging through political dialogues, human rights dialogues, awareness-raising activities and supporting LGBTQIA+ rights defenders in their work, including in emergency situations. For example, between January 2020 and December 2022, approximately 850 LGBTQIA+ human rights defenders worldwide received support channeled by the EU via the consortium ProtectDefenders.eu.

As partners, parents, and allies, we call on you to reflect on the societal impact of collective silence and its toll on our community. LGBTQIA+ individuals are integral members of our society, deserving recognition, respect, and protection. By addressing the legal and social barriers faced by the LGBTQIA+community, we can collectively contribute to a more just and inclusive Lesotho and echo Morena Moshoeshoe’s sentiment on founding a diverse and inclusive nation.

Khotso! Pula! Nala!

The deadline for applications for EpiC project roles has been extended!

New Deadline: 4 November 2023

The People’s Matrix Association implements the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project a five-year global project funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) with a specific focus on Men who have sex with men (MSM), Transgender (TGs), People Who Inject Drugs (PWID), Priority Population (PP) and the LGBTI community. The organisation is a sub-grantee of the FHI360 Lesotho. EpiC program in Lesotho aims to strengthen the HIV prevention and care interventions for key populations (KP) through: 1) enhancing the capacity of the KP-led and KP-competent organizations to plan, deliver and optimize HIV prevention and care services to KP and to increase the number of KP organizations that will fit into the local partnership strategy by 2020; and, 2) to improve delivery and expansion of KP-competent services across the HIV prevention, care and treatment continuum in three districts of Maseru, Berea and Leribe.

Roles, Responsibilities and Description

• Monitoring and Evaluation and Quality Assurance Officer

For more information: https://thematrix.org.ls/2023/09/21/recruiting-for-epic-project-me-and-qa-officer/

• TB/HIV Clinical Nurse

For more information: https://thematrix.org.ls/2023/09/19/recruiting-for-epic-project/

• Nursing Assistant

For information: https://thematrix.org.ls/2023/09/19/recruiting-for-epic-project-clinical-nurse/

Submit your CV, cover letter and copy of qualifications to; recruitmentmatrix@proton.me

Deadline: 4 November 2023

Role: Monitoring and Evaluation and Quality Assurance Officer

Deadline: 29 September 2023

New Deadline: 4 November 2023

The People’s Matrix Association implements the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project a five-year global project funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) with a specific focus on Men who have sex with men (MSM), Transgender (TGs), People Who Inject Drugs (PWID), Priority Population (PP) and the LGBTI community. The organisation is a sub-grantee of the FHI360 Lesotho. EpiC program in Lesotho aims to strengthen the HIV prevention and care interventions for key populations (KP) through: 1) enhancing the capacity of the KP-led and KP-competent organizations to plan, deliver and optimize HIV prevention and care services to KP and to increase the number of KP organizations that will fit into the local partnership strategy by 2020; and, 2) to improve delivery and expansion of KP-competent services across the HIV prevention, care and treatment continuum in three districts of Maseru, Berea and Leribe.

Job Description

The Monitoring and Evaluation and Quality Assurance Officer is responsible for leading and managing EpiC Project Strategic Information activities in support of data-driven programming. They will work with project staff to provide technical assistance (TA) on data collection methods; data quality assurance; data analysis and monitoring, learning and adapting in a systematic and effective manner. The M&EQA officer will implement the project’s Monitoring and Evaluation plan and develop tools and processes for routinely capturing project data on a monthly basis, both internally and with partners. They will also be responsible for leading and coordinating for data analysis, visualization, use for program improvement, as well as documentation and dissemination of good practice and success stories for replication and scaling up by other stakeholders.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Project Data Collection, Data Quality Assurance and Data Visualization
• Oversee implementation of the project Monitoring, Evaluation and implement tools and systems for the systematic collection of high-quality data from project activities 
• Submit and provide data on project indicators on a monthly basis into the EpiC M&E database.
• Conduct data quality assurance (DQA) activities and ensure data management and verification procedures meet national, FHI 360 and USAID standards.
• Prepare data visualization and analysis with project data as needed for weekly, monthly, annual reports in a timely manner.
• Facilitation of Quality Assurance and Quality Improvement (QAQI) Projects 
• Provide capacity building for project team on data collection.
• Support communication to EpiC leadership on project indicators, progress against targets, and results.

Qualifications

 Experience

• 3-5 years of hands-on experience in monitoring and evaluation
• Experience in PEPFAR monitoring and programming will be an added advantage
• Experience in results-based reporting and compilation of donor reports.
• Experience in organizing and providing administrative assistance in an office environment
• Excellent record-keeping and filing system
• Expert handling of data
• High level of computer literacy primarily in Microsoft Office Packages (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) Adobe Acrobat and Social Media web platforms
• Ability to analyse and interpret data or results in a logical manner
• Strong organizational skills that reflect the ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with excellent attention to detail and deadlines
• Pro-active, able to exercise discretion and independent decision-making
• Ability to achieve high-performance goals and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to exercise discretion in dealing with confidential or sensitive matters, be adaptable to various competing demands
• Strong communication and report-writing skills
• Strong Monitoring & Evaluation Skills
• Project & Programme Management Skills 
• Ability to work well under pressure and to maintain effectiveness during changing conditions
• Flexible working hours including weekends as required
• Willingness to work with the LGBTIQ+ community will be an added advantage 

Send your CV, cover letter and copy of qualifications to recruitmentmatrix@proton.me

Deadline: 29 September 2023

New Deadline: 4 November 2023

Role: Nursing Assistant

Deadline: 29 September 2023

New Deadline: 4 November 2023

The People’s Matrix Association implements the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project a five-year global project funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) with a specific focus on Men who have sex with men (MSM), Transgender (TGs), People Who Inject Drugs (PWID), Priority Population (PP) and the LGBTI community. The organisation is a sub-grantee of the FHI360 Lesotho.  EpiC program in Lesotho aims to strengthen the HIV prevention and care interventions for key populations (KP) through: 1) enhancing the capacity of the KP-led and KP-competent organizations to plan, deliver and optimize HIV prevention and care services to KP and to increase the number of KP organizations that will fit into the local partnership strategy by 2020; and, 2) to improve delivery and expansion of KP-competent services across the HIV prevention, care and treatment continuum in three districts of Maseru, Berea and Leribe.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Refill PrEP and ART at facility and community settings.
• Appropriately, timely and to completeness, fill at point of care, all registers, reports and keep records.
• Offer nursing care in ART as per the specific National Policy and Guidelines
• Carry out all other tasks delegated by the supervisor
• Link and follow up all clients to health care facilities for management and continuum of care
• Ensure screening of program participants for TB, STI and other health related services at the Drop In Centre clinic and community settings.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Certificate in Nursing Assistance 
• At least 2 years working experience as a nursing assistant preferably both at community and facility settings
• Registered with the Lesotho Nursing Council 
• Experience working with key populations.
• Good interpersonal skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours including weekends
• LGBTIQ+ Community friendly
• Duty station Maseru, Mazenod

Send your CV, cover letter and copy of qualifications to recruitmentmatrix@proton.me

Deadline: 29 September 2023

New Deadline: 4 November 2023

Role: TB/HIV Clinical Nurse

Deadline: 29 September 2023

New Deadline: 4 November 2023

The People’s Matrix Association implements the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project a five-year global project funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) with a specific focus on Men who have sex with men (MSM), Transgender (TGs), People Who Inject Drugs (PWID), Priority Population (PP) and the LGBTI community. The organisation is a sub-grantee of the FHI360 Lesotho. EpiC program in Lesotho aims to strengthen the HIV prevention and care interventions for key populations (KP) through: 1) enhancing the capacity of the KP-led and KP-competent organizations to plan, deliver and optimize HIV prevention and care services to KP and to increase the number of KP organizations that will fit into the local partnership strategy by 2020; and, 2) to improve delivery and expansion of KP-competent services across the HIV prevention, care and treatment continuum in three districts of Maseru, Berea and Leribe.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Support HIV testing and counselling services to program participants.
• Work closely with HIV case management team to develop appropriate referral and linkages for HIV infected program participants.
• ART initiation of all HIV infected program participants at facility and community level as per the National Care and Treatment Guidelines.
• Screen for TB, STI, VMMC and other services and coordinate with health facilities for referrals.
• Ensure proper record keeping and timely report submission.
• Initiate program participants on PrEP and perform other PrEP related services as per the National Guidelines.
• Work closely with program staff to ensure proper and effective tracking of PLHIV in both community and facility settings.
• Work closely with the Data clerk and SI Team to ensure proper record keeping and reporting as per the reporting guidance.
• Supervise the Nurse Assistant 
• Compile Monthly reports and submit to the Project Manager

QUALIFICATIONS

• Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery
• Bachelor’s Degree will be an added advantage
• Must be registered with the Lesotho Nursing Council.
• At least 2 years’ experience supporting HIV/TB programs in clinical and community settings.
• Experience working with key populations.
• Good interpersonal skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours including weekends
• LGBTIQ+ Community friendly
• Duty station Maseru, Mazenod

Send your CV, cover letter and copy of qualifications to recruitmentmatrix@proton.me

Deadline: 29 September 2023

New Deadline: 4 November 2023