Africa-Press – Lesotho. In a hall full of dignitaries from inside and outside Lesotho, government ministers, senior government officials and Basotho well wishers, the Head of State His Majesty King Letsie III was bestowed with a prestigious award by Botswana Minister of Water and Human Settlement Mr. Onneetse Ramogapi on behalf of Global Water Partnership at an event held at ‘Manthabiseng Convention Centre on Friday.
He welcomed esteemed guests saying this event marks a significant history in Kingdom of Lesotho to celebrate a bestowing of an award in recognition of championing Lesotho Highlands Water Project as model for peace, resilience and sustainable development.
He said this day falls on 39th of Lesotho highlands water treaty, a landmark that laid foundation for Africa, a successful and endurable partnership for the region.
“Your presence shows the bond and support you attach to the contribution this has made on the region”, he said.
He said while South Africa and Lesotho are principle partners but project could not have materialised without consent of right partners.
He underscored that this would not have been achieved without visionary political leadership, financial support of South Africa.
He said this award belongs to the men and women in the communities who believe bold ideas and that decisions can shape the journey. “It is dedicated to sons and daughters who embrace change and strive relentlessly for development. It belongs to development partners who has been steadfast on supporting them.
His Majesty King Letsie III receives the Global Water Partnership (GWP) Presidential Awards presented by Botswana Minister of Water and Human Settlement Mr. Onneetse Ramogapi
He said he accepts the award on behalf of all Basotho, partners in Lesotho Highlands Water Project, stakeholders who worked to bring this dream to live and believed in power of collaboration.
He thanked Global Water Partnership for recognizing Lesotho’s contribution to continental water agenda.
He said Lesotho stands ready to deepen collaboration to strengthen water supply. “Let’s look ahead and reflect while renewing commitment to sustainable and peaceful future”.
“We speak of project which is a beacon of hope to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and model to trans boundary Africa and world at large”, he said.
He said the project has contributed to economic development, energy generation and diplomatic relations, saying this is testament that natural resources can serve as instrument of peace and unity.
He said water is life and its equitable management is vital, saying transparency must continue to eliminate their path.
He added that rivers should remain sources of peace, prosperity for generations to come.
He said much work remains to be done especially to affected communities, saying the true reward will be realised when ordinary Basotho lifted out of poverty and derive tangible benefits, life improved and not diminished by projects.
“Let this award inspire humanity. I hope that when treaty is reviewed, the public will be allowed to give opinion and help in establishing agreement that benefits Basotho”, he added.
To the dignitaries who graced the event, he expressed gratitude for continued support and commitment.
Meanwhile, Heads of States and governments like South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Senegal and Tanzania were also bestowed with awards.
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