The Prime Minister, Dr Moeketsi Majoro on Thursday received the Appreciation Award from the African Union at the ceremony held in Maseru.
The award was presented to Dr Majoro by the Ambassador of Lesotho to the African Union, Prof. Mafa Sejanamane who described the award as the Appreciation Award given to Heads of State and Governments for ratifying the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
When accepting the award, the Prime Minister expressed his appreciation to the African Union (AU) for the award however noting that it is vital for the AU commission to work hard in ensuring that AfCFTA becomes functional hence unite African countries and improve the livelihoods of their people.
Dr Majoro urged Basotho to take AfCFTA as an opportunity to grow their production as it is going to open a large market area for them (Basotho) to sell locally and continentally.
He said Lesotho is already trading with North America, Europe and South Africa and this opportunity is expected to make known across the globe the products produced in Lesotho.
He however noted that the agreement of joining the AfCFTA comes with a lot of challenges which will need dedication from Basotho producers and full support from the government through responsible ministries.
Giving a brief on the award, Ambassador Sejanamane said Ambassadors and Heads of Mission based in Addis Ababa received the Awards on behalf of their respective Heads of State and Governments whose countries have ratified the AfCFTA Agreement.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a free trade area, outlined in the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. The AfCFTA, which began on 1 January 2021 is described as the largest in the world in terms of participating countries since the formation of the World Trade Organization.
Present at the ceremony included the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Mrs. Matšepo Ramakoae and the ministry’s senior officials.
 
Source: LENA 08/04/2021