Her Royal Highness Princess Senate Mohato Seeiso had officially been unveiled as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Lesotho National Goodwill Ambassador for Equality and Sustainable Development, marking an important milestone in advancing equality, youth empowerment and sustainable development in Lesotho.
The appointment was officially marked by a signing ceremony, followed by the presentation of her certificate by UNDP Resident Representative Dr. Jacqueline Olweya.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Lady Justice Nthomeng Majara said the appointment takes place at a significant time, coinciding with African Women’s Month and coming ahead of Lesotho’s Independence celebrations.
She said the occasion calls for the celebration of the empowerment of women and girls, emphasising that women have an important role to play in supporting one another and contributing to sustainable development.
Lady Justice Majara encouraged Princess Senate to use her new platform to inspire young people to lead with purpose and to continue using her voice to advocate for equality, empowerment and sustainable development.
“May your platform help young people to lead with purpose. May your voice continue to advocate for equality, empowerment and sustainable development,” she said, congratulating Princess Senate on the appointment.
Meanwhile, UNDP Resident Representative Dr. Jacqueline Olweya said the mandate of UNDP is to support national development and work with countries to advance inclusive and sustainable development.
She said Princess Senate’s appointment recognizes the role she has continued to play in the nation, particularly her efforts to mobilize and engage young people. According to Dr. Olweya, Princess Senate brings youth leadership and a strong voice to matters that shape the future of Lesotho.
She said the Goodwill Ambassador role is centered on equality, dignity and action, adding that sustainable development should benefit everyone, including every child, women and communities.
Dr. Olweya reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting Lesotho and working with national stakeholders to advance the country’s development priorities. She said Princess Senate’s new role aligns closely with the work she has already been doing in promoting youth participation and empowerment.
In addition, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Honourable Limpho Tau, said the appointment is an opportunity that comes with responsibility.
He said the Government is committed to working with partners to advance development and build resilience in Lesotho. He noted that Princess Senate’s appointment can add value to these efforts by using her voice and platform to raise awareness, particularly among young people, and encourage them to take an active role in shaping their future.
Hon. Tau urged Princess Senate to welcome the appointment as an opportunity to strengthen advocacy for equality, sustainable development and youth empowerment, while using her position to promote issues that contribute to the country’s development.
The appointment of Princess Senate reflects a shared commitment by the Government of Lesotho and UNDP to promote equality, dignity, youth leadership, women and girls’ empowerment, and sustainable development, while ensuring that all sectors of society have an opportunity to contribute to the country’s future.
Source: Department of Information, PR UNIT
