The Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police, Mr Lebona Lephema welcomed an entourage from the United States of America’s Military Air.

Upon their arrival on Thursday at the Mejametalana Airbase, the entourage took the Minister together with the LDF members on a familiarisation flight.

In his remarks, Mr. Lephema said such collaborations usually yield better results, saying he hopes this one comes in handy.

He said he hopes the familiarisation flight will help in promoting Lesotho better in the world while also growing its tourism industry.

Also speaking, the Pilot of the BE 20 aircraft Captain Michele Lowe said the objective of this flight was to amongst others discuss mutual security operations or corporate objectives to advance great partnerships that the two countries have with each other.

The Deputy Commander Lesotho Defence Force Major General Matela Matobakele highlighted that the flight was taken along the terrains of Lesotho from Sani Pass passing through the Thaba-Tseka district and part of the Qacha’s Nek district.

He mentioned that it is through such collaborations that collective efforts towards sustainable security measures can be achieved.

Previously, the Press and Media Digital Outreach Officer at the American Embassy Lesotho, Mr. Moeketsi Chefa explained that this is the first time such an initiative has been carried out, also mentioning that it is the first time an American aircraft has landed on the ground of the Kingdom of Lesotho.

Currently under the stewardship of Ambassador Maria Brewer, the United States Embassy has for the longest time built relations with the Kingdom of Lesotho in sectors which amongst others include the placement of Peace Corps that functions in the fields of education, agriculture and health.

Additionally, many Basotho youth have been given opportunities to study or even acquire jobs in the United States.

Source: LENA 14/03/2024