As part of celebrating 200 years since the formation of Basotho nation, His Majesty King Letsie III celebrated his birthday with elders born on the same date of July 17 at Thaba Phats’oa in Leribe on Wednesday.
About 25 elders were selected from different areas in the Southern region of the country. His Majesty presented them with gifts including blankets, maize meal, sugar and sausage hampers to mention a few.
Addressing the crowd, he expressed his gratitude to God Almighty for making the celebration success. He also said Bishop David Ramela and his family contributed a lot, saying the celebration was planned long time ago.
He indicated that the celebration gives him an opportunity to learn about the challenges the elders encounter and refer the matters to suitable people, citing Prime Minister, for assistance. He further lamented that due to drought most of them failed to produce enough food and this makes them prone to hunger.
Referring to other parts of the country, His Majesty elaborated that the same kind of celebration will be held in the Southern and Central region.
“This is to remember the 200 years by which the founder of Basotho nation King Moshoeshoe I made them a nation,” he stated.
Speaking at the same occasion, Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture Mr Motlatsi Maqelepo said this is not only the matter of celebrations, but this is the year of reuniting Basotho. He said Basotho must be grateful of their country, saying their kingship has brought them thus far.
Mr Maqelepo said such events are an introduction to the major event to be held on October 4. He appealed that all should have love for the elders, both grandmothers and grandfathers.
Echoing the same sentiments, Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development Mr Pitso Lesaoana expressed his gratitude to Bishop Ramela for celebrating the elders born on same date with His Majesty.
He indicated that elders are important to the nation as they have full knowledge of Basotho history. “Let us protect and care for the elders,” he concluded.
On the other hand, Bishop Ramela said the event has been a success through the support of different businesses in the country. He said the elders are important as they have to remind young generation of the old ways of doing things and to overcome the killings rampaging the country.
One of elders Mr Paul Sekepe said it is an honour that His Majesty called to celebrate with them. He said this is an indication that His Majesty wishes good for his nation.
He further said that His Majesty came at the right time, as they are faced with many challenges, saying they appreciate every gift from the depth of their hearts.
Present at the event were also Member of Parliament for Thaba Phats’oa constituency and Principal chief of Leribe Joel Mots’oene.
Source : Lesotho News Agency (LENA) 5/9/2024
