UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed's Visits Lesotho, Reaffirms UN’s Support Towards Basotho’s Long-term Development Aspirations.

United Nations (UN) Deputy Secretary-General (DSG), Ms. Amina J. Mohammed, visited Lesotho, 4-6th October 2024, to reaffirm the UN’s commitment and support towards the country’s efforts aimed at achieving its long-term vision and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. 

Representing the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, the DSG attended the Kingdom’s historic Bicentenary celebrations in Maseru. Her visit underscored the enduring partnership between the UN and Lesotho, highlighting a shared commitment to sustainable development, peace, and prosperity.

“Two hundred years ago, under the visionary leadership of King Moshoeshoe I, the Basotho nation was founded on the principles of diplomacy, unity, and a profound respect for human dignity. In times of conflict, displacement, and colonial expansion, King Moshoeshoe I chose a path of peace. His approach was revolutionary: to build a nation through dialogue, inclusion, and peaceful alliances.” Ms. Mohammed said, while addressing attendees at Setsoto stadium. King Moshoeshoe’s legacy of peace and inclusion continues to inspire globally, demonstrating the power of dialogue, inclusion, and peaceful alliances.

While in the country, Ms. Mohammed held high-level meetings with His Majesty King Letsie III and Prime Minister Samuel Matekane during which Lesotho’s development progress and opportunities as well as challenges in meeting the SDG promise were discussed. The DSG reiterated the UN’s continued support to and partnership with the Kingdom stressing that while the investment being made by the UN through the resident and non-resident agencies was making an impact in people’s lives, a lot more could be achieved with more partners on board. 

During her visit to the mountain kingdom, Ms. Mohammed, in the company of Her Majesty Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso, the country’s Finance Minister, Honourable Dr Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane and UN Residence Coordinator, Ms. Amanda Khozi Mukwashi, also engaged with survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). With a high rate of GBV in the country, the UN in Lesotho has developed a joint initiative to address the challenge and established a soon-to-be launched Multi-Purpose Centre for Survivors of GBV in Maseru – services such as psychosocial support, legal aid, medical care, and skills training, aimed at restoring dignity and fostering resilience among survivors will be provided at the Centre. 

Ms. Mohammed also took time to review the progress of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project – an investment under the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) that is crucial for transforming social and economic fortunes for Basotho people. Additionally, she met with traditional leaders with whom she discussed several issues affecting communities, especially the youth and women. She acknowledged the importance of local leadership in strengthening social cohesion and advancing national development. During her dialogue with the youth, the DSG commended the efforts of young Basotho in combating poverty and contributing to the country’s economic growth, aligning with her call for youth involvement in shaping Lesotho’s sustainable development path.

-----

Ms. Mohammed’s visit celebrated Lesotho’s 200-year journey and reinforced the UN’s ongoing partnership in addressing the country’s pressing challenges, from gender-based violence to youth empowerment and sustainable development. Her engagements reflected the strong partnership between the UN and the Kingdom of Lesotho. The partnerships will continue to shape the nation’s path toward peace, dignity, and prosperity for generations to come.