Maseru, July,8– Lesotho will join the rest of the world in commemorating World Population Day 2026 on Thursday at Qalakheng in Mohale’s Hoek with this year’s celebrations placing young people and maternal health at the centre of national development.
In an interview with the Agency, UNFPA Communications Assistant Ms. Violet Maraisane said this year’s global theme “Realizing the hopes and aspirations of young people – today and for the future,” highlights the importance of investing in young people so they can reach their full potential.
She indicated that the theme is informed by findings from the UNFPA Demographic Futures Survey which gathered the views of more than 100,000 young people aged 18 to 39 across 73 countries which found that while many young people aspire to have families and stable futures, they continue to face challenges such as economic insecurity, limited opportunities and unequal access to essential services.
Ms. Maraisane further noted that the national commemoration will bring together government ministers, development partners, community leaders and young people to discuss issues affecting the country’s population, particularly those relating to youth development and reproductive health.
She noted that one of the major highlights of the event will be the handover of specialized maternal health equipment, calibrated drapes, hospital linen and essential medicines to Nts’ekhe Hospital in Mohale’s Hoek.
According to Ms. Maraisane, the equipment will assist health workers in accurately measuring blood loss during childbirth, enabling them to detect complications early and respond quickly to prevent life-threatening postpartum haemorrhage.
She said that the intervention demonstrates UNFPA’s continued commitment to improving maternal health services and ensuring that no woman dies while giving birth.
Ms. Maraisane further indicated that the commemoration will provide a platform for young people to voice their concerns and aspirations while encouraging stronger partnerships and investments in education, healthcare, employment and reproductive health services.
She added that Lesotho continues to face population-related challenges, including teenage pregnancy, youth unemployment and unequal access to quality sexual and reproductive health services, making it critical for all stakeholders to work together in addressing these issues.
World Population Day is commemorated annually on July 11, with countries around the world using the occasion to raise awareness about population issues and promote policies that improve the wellbeing of all people, particularly women and young people.
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