QUEEN ‘MASENATE’S GOLDEN JUBILEE MARKED WITH PRAYER AT ST. LOUIS CATHOLIC MISSION IN MATSIENG.

In celebration of the Golden Jubilee of Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso, the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Lesotho hosted a special Holy Mass at St. Louis Catholic Mission in Matsieng on Saturday, bringing together members of the community, church representatives and peace advocates to honour her life and service.

Speaking at the event, IWPG Regional Manager, Mrs. Faith Van Wyk, said the Queen’s 50th birthday presents an opportunity for reflection, gratitude and hope for the future. She noted that the celebration coincided with the International Women’s Day for Peace and Disarmament commemoration, observed globally on May 24 and that this year’s event was dedicated to recognising Her Majesty’s outstanding contribution to the welfare of Basotho, particularly young people.

Mrs. Van Wyk highlighted the Queen’s involvement in several initiatives and organisations focused on child welfare, youth development, education and community empowerment, including Hlokomela Bana, UNICEF Lesotho, World Vision Lesotho and the Econet Higherlife Foundation.

Representing the Catholic Church, Mrs. Maletuka Moroka congratulated Her Majesty on reaching the milestone age of 50 and commended her continued dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable members of society. She wished the Queen many more years of good health and grace to continue serving the nation.

In her remarks, Her Majesty expressed gratitude to IWPG for choosing to celebrate her birthday through prayer, saying that while people often mark birthdays with gifts and festivities, the importance of prayer is sometimes overlooked.

The Queen also spoke about her desire to see positive change in the lives of young people across the country, expressing concern over the growing abuse of drugs and alcohol among the youth. She said her greatest hope is to witness more young people realising their potential and contributing positively to society.

The celebration concluded with a symbolic release of 50 balloons, representing each year of Her Majesty’s life. The Queen also planted trees, and officially marked the site where a Peace Monument will be constructed, a gesture aimed at promoting peace, unity, and social harmony in Lesotho.

The event formed part of IWPG’s ongoing efforts to advance a culture of peace while recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to community development and social well-being.

Source: Lesotho News Agency [LENA]