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