NSDD-38 APPROVAL FOR DOS-STI2-0021-2009 PUBLIC AFFAIRS

UNCLAS MASERU 000441 SIPDIS DEPT FOR M/PRI SALLY MAVLIAN GABORONE FOR R/HRO C. HAMBLIN E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: AODE AMGT APER LT SUBJECT: NSDD-38 APPROVAL FOR DOS-STI2-0021-2009 PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER REF: A) MASERU 300; B) NSDD-38 REQUEST NUMBER DOS-STI2-0021-2009 ¶1. Embassy Maseru approves in principle and welcomes the addition of the permanent Public Affairs Officer Positions in Lesotho as detailed in subject NSDD-38 request. Post is pleased to provide the following with respect to the NSDD-38 request to place this additional staffing at U.S. Embassy Maseru. ¶2. The PAO presence requested under this NSDD-38 was not included in Maseru's most recent MSP submission but rather cited in reftel A. The position is critical to build upon the strong relationship between our growing Mission and the government of Lesotho, encourage further developments in the areas of democratization, institution building, and addressing public health needs. ¶3. Embassy Maseru is currently understaffed and has been unable to invest sufficient time and energy in developing and carrying out effective PD strategies in several key Mission areas. The establishment of this position is crucial in this regard. ¶4. Post agrees that TDY, FSN, or local contractor personnel are insufficient to support fully this program. Effective performance of PD outreach efforts require this permanent full-time position. ¶5. Post has worked in close cooperation with appropriate offices to develop its plan for management services, office space, residential housing, and funding to support this increase in staffing. We agree that this position should be included for subscription to the full range of ICASS services. We are creating office space from within existing building structures and have solid leads on good housing. ¶6. Post concurs with the bureau that the benefits of this program are very substantial relative to the inherent security risks associated with additional personnel on the ground. We are working very closely with all appropriate offices to manage and mitigate potential security risks. ¶7. Consequently, the Chief of Mission approves the Bureau of African Affairs request case number: DOS-STI2-0021-2009 with the understanding that the following pertain: A) This position shall fall under Chief of Mission authority. B) AF/EX shall provide sufficient resources to undertake its commitments detailed in the Support Implications section of the NSDD-38 request. ¶8. Post is grateful for the support at all levels in bringing this request to fruition. POWER