The Right Honourable Prime Minister Sam Matekane arrived from Madagascar this week where the 45th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit was held and was welcomed in a style by Basotho.
The nation and friends of Lesotho gathered together on this momentous occasion to celebrate the new positive status of the country.
The United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator, Amanda Mukwashi congratulated Lesotho for being removed from the SADC agenda, saying “In December last year, the secretary general of the United Nations stood before the parliament of Lesotho and paid tribute to the enduring legacy of king Moshoeshoe I, the legacy that is rooted in peace and unity. Today we gather to honour the people of Lesotho for continuing that legacy through one of the most inclusive national reforms.”
“On behalf of the United Nations, I commend the government, civil society and all Basotho who have contributed to this national milestone” she concluded.
Lesotho’s engagement in the recent SADC summit has resulted positively, with the country securing recognition and respect from other nations. The conference offered a medium for Lesotho to engage with other SADC member states and reinforce regional ties. The country’s leadership has been applauded for it’s initiatives in progressing it’s development and fostering international cooperation.
The right honourable, the Prime Minister, Sam Matekane reasserted his devotion to leading Lesotho to success and removing the country from the list of the least developed countries.
In a press statement, Matekane stressed the significance of peace and stability, especially in the electoral process. He vowed to work intimately with Basotho to achieve this objective, recognising the hurdles that lie ahead.
“As we manage the complications of the electoral process, I urge Basotho to prefer communication and peaceful settlement of conflicts. Where there are hurdles, let us sit down and conclude them harmoniously for the sake of our nation. And where we have achieved success, let us rejoice and thank God for guiding us,” Matekane
“I would like to grant my profound gratitude to our international and development partners who stood firm with Lesotho during difficult times. Your steady aid and mentorship have been priceless as we navigate the reforms path. We truly cherish having partners and Friends of your nature”, said Matekane
Matekane concluded by commending Basotho who won competitions in Madagascar at the Summit, namely; Thabo Rakhomo( Media) wo won 1st prize, Ntsoaki Kholumo( Essay Competition)1st Prize as well as Boitumelo Khotlele having won a 3rd prize in an essay competition.
