When starting a business in Lesotho, selecting a company name is one of the first and most important decisions. However, not every name you choose will be allowed. The Companies Act of Lesotho contains strict rules to ensure that business names are lawful, distinctive, and not misleading.
At Mayet & Associates, our company registration lawyers in Lesotho help local and international clients navigate the legal requirements for business names and ensure full compliance with the Registrar of Companies in Maseru.
Why Your Business Name Matters
Your company name is more than a brand, it’s a legal identity. A business name:
- Must be distinguishable from other registered entities;
- Must comply with the Companies Act and any other laws in force in Lesotho;
- Becomes the legal name under which your company conducts all official business.
Getting your company name right from the start prevents costly rejections, rebranding, or even legal disputes.
Prohibited and Restricted Names Under the Lesotho Companies Act
According to Section 25 of the Lesotho Companies Act, the Registrar of Companies has the power to reject a proposed name or order a company to change its name post-registration if it breaches any of the following restrictions:
1. Unlawful Names
The Registrar will not register any company name that violates existing laws in Lesotho. This includes names that promote illegal activity, incite public disorder, or breach regulatory restrictions.
2. Names Identical to Existing Trademarks or Trade Names
If the proposed name is the same as or confusingly similar to a well-known trademark, trade name, or brand, whether nationally, regionally, or internationally, it will be rejected. This is to prevent trademark infringement and consumer confusion.
3. Duplicate or Similar Names
If the name is already in use by another company registered under the current Companies Act or the Companies Act of 1967, it cannot be reused, even with slight alterations. The Registrar will also refuse names that are too similar to existing entities, as this may mislead the public.
4. Offensive or Inappropriate Names
The law empowers the Registrar to reject names deemed offensive, vulgar, or culturally insensitive. This is to ensure that registered company names uphold public standards and do not harm national image or social harmony.
5. Use of Restricted Words
Company names that include words such as:
- “Imperial”, “Royal”, “Crown”, “Empire”
- “Government”, “State”, “Commonwealth”, “Dominion”
- “African Union”, “United Nations”
…are restricted and cannot be used unless special consent is granted by the Registrar. These words imply official government, state, or intergovernmental affiliation, and are regulated to prevent misrepresentation.
Changing a Company Name After Registration
Even after a company has been registered, the Registrar retains the authority to order a name change if it becomes apparent that the name was approved in error or violates the Act’s restrictions. This applies whether your company is newly formed or changing its name later in its lifecycle.
Tips for Choosing a Legally Compliant Company Name in Lesotho
To avoid delays in your business registration process, follow these best practices:
- Conduct a name availability search through the Lesotho Registrar of Companies
- Avoid brand names that mimic existing businesses, especially well-known regional or global entities
- Steer clear of restricted or official-sounding terminology
- Consult a legal professional before reserving a name
Our experienced company formation attorneys in Maseru offer end-to-end support with business naming, name reservation applications, and trademark clearance reviews.
Legal Support for Company Name Registration in Lesotho
At Mayet & Associates, we provide:
- Business name clearance and reservation services
- Legal advice on acceptable names under Lesotho law
- Trademark availability checks
- Company incorporation and CIPC submissions
- Name change applications for existing companies
Whether you’re launching a new enterprise or expanding your brand into Lesotho, we’ll ensure that your company name meets all regulatory standards.
Get Started Today
Choosing a company name is the first step to a successful business launch in Lesotho. Make sure your name reflects your vision without breaching legal requirements. Let Mayet & Associates guide you through the naming and registration process with precision and professionalism.
📞 Contact us today for a consultation on company registration in Lesotho or to check the availability of your proposed business name.