THE KINGDOM OF LESOTHO COMBINED SECOND TO EIGHTH PERIODIC REPORT UNDER THE AFRICAN CHARTER ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS AND INITIAL REPORT UNDER THE PROTOCOL TO THE AFRICAN CHARTER ON THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN IN AFRICA women no longer need consent of their husbands to enter into contracts, to access loans and to be directors in companies. Thus, they may freely enter into commercial activities. Challenges 431. Despite the legislative measures to economically empower women, men dominate in the sectors of industry, mining, public administration, electricity, private enterprise, construction, transportation, and communications – sectors where economic and political power is concentrated. It says female ambassadors across a wide spectrum of sectors are relatively few. 432. As indicated in the table below, men are dominant in economic decision-making in a public sector as they constitute 62.5 percent relative to 37.5 percent of women representation. This gender imbalance implicates inequality in participation of economic policy formulation and implementation. Low women representation ultimately translates to limited access of women to enhance gender economic planning that advocates for women economic empowerment and well-being. Table B7: Heads of economy related institutions in Lesotho Position Name Sex Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. M. Majoro M Minister of Trade and Industry Hon. T. Mapesela M Development Hon. Mr. C. Phori M Minister of Development Planning Hon. T. Aumane M Minister of Social Development Hon. M. Doti F Governor of Central Bank Dr. R Matlanyane F 1st Deputy Governor Dr. M Makhetha M 2nd Deputy Governor Ms. M Makenete F Minister of Small Business, Cooperatives and Marketing Source: Government website & Central Bank of Lesotho website 149