Qacha’s Nek, June.26 — Songs, poems, and energetic dances echoed through Qacha’s Nek Community Hall on Thursday as children took center stage during the national Day of the African Child (DAC) 2025 celebration.
Held under the theme “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights: Progress Since 2010”, the event combined childhood joy with serious reflection on Lesotho’s journey to protect and uplift its children.
Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development Pitso Lesaoana, speaking on behalf of Her Majesty Queen ’Masenate Mohato Seeiso, emphasized that early investment in children is key to preventing future harm.
“It’s better to invest in children now than repair damage later,” he said.
The Minister highlighted Lesotho’s achievements since 2010, including the distribution of child grants, the establishment of children’s courts, access to education, and the creation of a child labour unit.
He credited these developments to collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and development partners. However, he cautioned that violence against children particularly sexual offenses is on the rise and must be urgently addressed.
He emphasized that child protection must start within families and communities, not only with government and partners. . .
Ends/MAPM
