Africa-Press – Lesotho. In his new year’s message, His Majesty King Letsie III has strongly called on the government and public sectors to invest in nutrition to fight hunger and poverty and enhance proper nutrition saying nutrition is one of the pillars of development and the country’s economic drivers.
The King who is the African Union Champion of Nutrition and also serving as Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) Special Ambassador said hunger and malnutrition are challenges facing Lesotho and Basotho, therefore calling on the nation to take advantage of the current rains to ensure that they go to the fields for food production.
He stressed the need for climate-resilient agriculture pointing out that the increasing impacts of climate change continue to threaten food production and nutrition outcomes.
Moreover, he highlighted sluggish economy and high unemployment among youth as well as gender based violence against women and girls which he said increases every day with about 30 percent of girls aged 15 being victims, saying this has turned out to be a disaster that all must stand together to fight. Therefore called on all Basotho to join hands to protect girls and women against violence.
He commended all those who work personally with and take care of victims of violence saying their work is massive but they do such with humility, love and diligence.
On the other hand, the Head of State reminded the nation that this year marks 60th anniversary of Lesotho’s independence saying in their celebrations they must thank God for being with them through the years while not forgetting that the Basotho nation was founded on pillars including peace, love and unity. Therefore urging that their work and actions should protect, preserve and uphold such pillars.
Furthermore, he urged Basotho to use the end of 2025 as introspection as individuals and the nation and correct where there were hiccups.
He then wished Basotho a happy new year and for God to bless and protect them throughout the year.
