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Thupeyo Muleya in MASERU, Lesotho
zimbabwe’s diplomatic relations with Lesotho remain strong and leaders from the two nations will continue working together for the advancement of peace, unity and key issues of mutual benefit throughout the Sadc region, Vice President Kembo Mohadi said yesterday.
He made the remarks while congratulating the Basotho nation for attaining 200 years since the founding of the kingdom by King Moshoeshoe the First in 1824.
A number of African leaders were also at Setsoto Stadium in Maseru yesterday where the celebrations also coincided with Lesotho’s 58th independence commemorations.
VP Mohadi attended the event on behalf of President Mnangagwa, the Sadc chairman and is today expected to meet the Zimbabwean community in Lesotho for discussions related to the country’s economic development.
The mountain kingdom’s celebrations were a significant milestone in Lesotho’s history as they provide an opportunity for the Basotho people to come together and reflect on their collective identity and heritage.
The year-long celebrations are themed, “Basotho 200 Years — Rebirth. Reflection. Revival”.
Various events and activities showcasing the country’s rich history and culture have been lined up.
“It is with a sense of privilege and deep honour that I stand before you today on behalf of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa at this historic occasion—the celebration of the bicentenary anniversary of the founding of the Basotho Nation and the 58th Independence Day of the Kingdom of Lesotho,” said the Vice President.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Zimbabwe and the SADC community, I extend our warmest congratulations to you, Your Majesty (King Letsie III), and through you to the Government and people of the Kingdom of Lesotho, on reaching this significant milestone in the illustrious long history of this nation.”
He commended the Basotho for their rich and vibrant history and their remarkable journey of bravery, unity and strength that has characterised this nation over the past 200 years.
The story of Lesotho, Vice President Mohadi said, was one of courage, hope and a relentless pursuit of peace, freedom and dignity not just for Basotho but for the people of the Sadc region.
He said in the spirit of solidarity and shared experiences, Zimbabwe was honoured to receive the Prime Minister Mr Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane at the recently held 44th SADC Summit in Harare.
“His presence and contributions at the summit further confirmed Lesotho’s unwavering support for and dedication to the advancement of the people of our region.
“On the sidelines of the summit, we had the opportunity to meet and discuss key issues of mutual benefit for our countries.
“The glorious history of your kingdom and its people has demonstrated the enduring value of regional solidarity and co-operation in fostering unity, peace, stability and sustainable development at the national and regional levels. In the face of such challenges as climate change, conflicts and a highly polarised global community, it behoves us to draw from these experiences and be emboldened in the choices we make as a region to propel us all to success, prosperity and above all, stability,” said VP Mohadi.
He said Lesotho had weathered many storms and had emerged stronger and wished the country many more years of peace, prosperity and success.
Speaking during the same event, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Lesotho continued to make a great contribution to African society, knowledge and development.
“As your neighbours in Southern Africa and across the African continent, we appreciate your excellent leadership, your commitment to peace and development and your contribution to the cause of humanity.
“We celebrate the deep bonds of friendship and solidarity between Basotho and South Africans.
“This is a relationship forged through a collective past and shared aspirations for the future,” said President Ramaphosa.
He said Basotho made heroic sacrifices in support of his country’s struggle against apartheid adding that both countries would continue to work together in many areas of mutual interest for the benefit of their respective peoples.
Lesotho’s Prime Minister Matekane said his country was excited by the overwhelming support and attendance at the bicentenary celebrations, of people from various African countries and beyond.
He said he was grateful for the support his country was getting on its road to real transformation.
Online Reporter