Lesotho News Agency, Lerotholi Road opposite royal palace, Maseru (2026)

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Lerotholi Road Opposite Royal Palace

28/12/2025

AFCON MAN OF THE MATCH AWARD CHANGED

Maseru, Dec. 28 -- A new Man of the match award has made its debut at the TotalEnergies CAF African Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, winning acclaim for its striking design that makes a worthy price for the players who excel at the continental finals.

CAF says the new trophy has been presented since the opening match of the tournament in Morocco five days ago, marking a visible shift in how individual excellence is recognised at Africa’s flagship football competition.

It further states that for years, the TotalEnergies Man of the Match prize had remained largely unchanged, but at TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025, the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) and title sponsor TotalEnergies have opted for something different, a trophy designed to symbolise unity, diversity and African football’s growing global stature.

CAF also indicated that the new TotalEnergies Man of the Match trophy is composed of 24 radiant beams, each representing one of the 24 nations competing at the finals.

"The mix of materials distinguishes each nation from the others, while the way these strands undulate and come together represents how football brings people together, celebrating each nation’s unique strengths and contributions to AFCON."

At the centre is the Damask rose, a symbol associated with TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025’s host country, Morocco.

"It creates a vibrant focal point at the heart of the trophy and serves as a visual reminder of where this trophy was won."

Since the tournament began, the trophy has already been handed to each game's standout performers, including Morocco’s Brahim Díaz, who became the first recipient after the opening match when the host nation beat Comoros 2–0 in Rabat.

Ends/MP

28/12/2025

QUEEN ‘MAMOHATO, LMPS TO PRESENT FESTIVE SEASON REPORTS

MASERU – The ultra-modern hospital, Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital (QMMH) will give an account of what transpired during the Christmas period on Monday.

The report detailing a total number of new-borns and other related matters including casualties will officially be presented to the public, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Ms. Thakane Sepipi told the Agency in an interview on Sunday.

Even so, the Agency established in an interview with QMMH Unit Manager, Mrs. ‘Malehloenya Nchai that at least the hospital managed to record a report of a healthy new born baby girl who was born on Christmas day.

According to the Unit Manager, the girl made history by becoming the first to have been born on such a special day at exactly 04:28am, thus bringing joy to her parents and the hospital in its entirety.

“The good news is that the baby was not only born healthy but through normal procedures, the mother as well came out victorious after the process, bringing more happiness to us all while proper care was also given afterwards.”

Later on Christmas day, eight children were delivered at the hospital, six were girls while two were boys. Of the eight children six were delivered normal while two were delivered by Caesarean section.

However, she explained that the hospital recorded with sadness the death of another new-born baby suspected to be a boy, whose mother allegedly gave birth to him while still at home at around 2:00am, thus coming to the hospital while he had already succumbed to his death.

Mrs. Nchai assured the Agency, QMMH would be fully operational during this festive period, with increased staff in a bid to respond effectively and efficiently to health matters including emergencies. Therefore, she urged expectant mothers to seek medical assistance whenever they have suspicious signs so as to prevent deaths.

In another story, the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) public relations officer Senior Superintendent Mpiti Mopeli affirmed to the Agency that police are currently up in arms to prevent crimes, protect lives and property.

As a result, the Lesotho Mounted Police Service said a detailed report will also be shared with the public this week.

QMMH is entrusted with the responsibility to serve as the country’s main referral hospital under the Ministry of Health so as to support the government through the Ministry to promote quality health among citizens while LMPS through the Ministry of Police implements programmes meant to maintain order, strengthen safety and security in the Mountain Kingdom.

Ends/MAMAJ/ml

28/12/2025

EYEING FESTIVE SEASON DEEDS

MASERU -- Government officials, the aged, youth, family, friends and colleagues continue in one spirit Christmas celebrations with different activities and deeds.

In an endeavour to perform the role of informing, educating and entertaining the audience, the agency spotted a lunch activity for the aged spearheaded by Tourism Minister, Mr. Motlatsi Maqelepo in Berea.

Another festivity related to another luncheon hosted by Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation (MICSTI), Ms. Nthati Moorosi with elderly people.

Among the guests or those celebrated by Minister Moorosi was an elderly Mrs/Nkhono ‘Mateboho Lebesa who celebrated her 100th year.

These are part of events meant to ensure that all including the less privileged are remembered during this period so that they as well feel loved and taken care of.

Similarly, a youth who grew up as an orphan in Sekamaneng Teboho Mokhele who has grown up through support of villagers, especially elderly people and has now become a Teacher by profession gave back to the community by having lunch with the aged including playing with Sekamaneng children.

In the same vein the annual ‘Soul’n RnB’ festival organised by a local DJ Thizozo brought together fans in-spite of age at the event titled LET’S TOUCH YOUR SOUL, where souls of participants are touched in different ways namely: gospel and comedy to mention but a few.

The climax of this week’s events was at the Maseru club on Saturday night, where a young Thaabe Letsie popularly known as ‘Ntate Stunna’ held his annual event ‘SESOTHO FASHIONENG’ and entertained the crowd along with other artists as such are orders of festive season.

Thus far, the Agency is awaiting a full LMPS report giving an account of happenings across the country, stating successes and challenges in comparison to 2024 and other previous years.

Ends/AM/ml

28/12/2025

MASERU - On the seventh day and as according to Christian calendar, congregants gather in their different Churches to worship and praise God.

This has been the case with United Church members who sang praises and worshiped God, especially now when Christians are still on Christmas mood celebrating and commemoraring the birth of Jesus Christ.

27/12/2025

HOPE FOR KHUBETSONA YOUTH

MASERU -- Community Councilor for Maseru Municipal Council (MMC- 01) Khubetsona, Ms. 'Makananelo Mohlouoa says festive season has presented hope for youth that one day use and abuse of drugs will become a thing of a past.

Speaking in an interview with the Agency, Ms. Mohlouoa stated that they have since been keeping the youth busy with different activities including sports.

She added that Khubetsoana, a place known for drug abuse by the youth will one day yield a positive result as together with a Member of Parliament, Mr. Lekhotsa Mafethe have engaged on a series of campaigns meant to reverse the situation.

She stated that the youth have also shown keen interest to change behaviour, indicating this again is a sign there is hope for change.

The Councilor has appealed for parents and guardians not to lose hope but join forces and join this campaign meant to transform the lives of children.

Information from Mohlomi hospital has shown that use and abuse of drugs is one of the common factors leading to mental illness, thus the hospital urges the society to engage in talks when they encounter life threatening situations with the aim to solve problems than to resort to abuse of alcohol or drugs.

ENDS/AM/ml

27/12/2025

LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR SHARES THE STORY BEHIND MACHABA PETROLEUM JELLY

MASERU -- The producer of Machaba Petroleum Jelly, which is made using stinging nettle(bobatsi) who previously pitched her product at the Sebabatso Youth Empowerment Initiative conference shared insights about her locally made skincare product.

Speaking in an interview with the agency, Machaba petroleum jelly producer, Ms. Kananelo Molemane explained that she started the business in 2024, inspired by her own struggles with skin problems.

“I have dealt with skin issues for a long time, and the improvements I saw in my skin after using this product motivated me to produce it for others facing similar challenges,” she said.

She explained that she chose stinging nettle as the key ingredient for Machaba Petroleum jelly because it is a powerful plant rich in minerals that are essential for healthy skin.

She added that stinging nettle is easy to cultivate as it grows naturally and is low maintenance which helps ensure a stable supply for production.

Machaba Petroleum Jelly, which she describes as having a light “perfume,” contains natural ingredients from stinging nettle that are beneficial for healthy skin. She said it helps moisturize and protect the skin, addressing problems such as rashes, eczema, dryness, and cracked skin.

She stated that users can also apply it like a cosmetic after bathing, either in the morning or evening, according to personal preference.

She mentioned that she had distributed sample packs to several people, who have reported positive results. “We are currently in the process of conducting formal tests to ensure that the product is completely safe for mass distribution,” she added.

Despite the positive feedback, the entrepreneur highlighted challenges in expanding production.

“The main obstacle is a lack of sufficient funding to produce in large quantities. We are also cautious about releasing the product widely because we have not yet completed the necessary certification documents, even though we have many satisfied users,” she explained.

Ends/MAMAJ/ml

27/12/2025

DEVELOPING COUNTRIES NEED TO LEAP FORWARD WITH AI – WORLD BANK

MASERU - -Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing at an extraordinary speed, reshaping how people learn, work, and live. This was said by the World Bank Senior Managing Director Axel van Trotsenburg in a 2025 Digital Progress and Trends Report.

Axel said AI’s ability to unlock access to knowledge, boost productivity, and open new markets holds immense potential to accelerate development, creating jobs, new industries, and economic transformation.

He explained that expanding digital access will be one of the greatest drivers of future employment, noting that 10 of the 15 fastest growing jobs globally are now in technology or technology-enabled roles.

‘’In addition, AI-related job postings are now rising faster in middle-income economies, up to 16 percent in upper-middle-income and 11 percent in lower-middle-income countries, compared to just two percent in high-income countries. ‘’

He also indicated that this report, Strengthening AI Foundations, is the second in the Digital Progress and Trends Report series, providing a comprehensive, data-driven snapshot of the global AI landscape, highlighting a stark divide.

‘’Most innovations remain concentrated in high-income countries. Yet, a promising trend is emerging, as low- and middle-income countries are actively adopting “small AI” solutions.’’

Axel also noted that while these immediate, localized impacts are crucial, continued investment in strengthening the broader AI foundations is needed to embrace AI at scale over time and to seize this opportunity and facilitate the growth of small AI, governments need to prioritize investment in what is called the foundational “4Cs”.

He further said connectivity, encompassing reliable digital infrastructure, energy, and device access, is the indispensable baseline, and compute, covering AI chips, servers, data centers, and cloud services, is increasingly becoming the “new electricity” of the AI era.

He added that context, or locally relevant data and content, is essential to build trusted, inclusive, and effective AI systems and competency is the set of robust digital skills that are indispensable for adopting, adapting, and innovating with AI. ‘’Governments have a pivotal role to play in building and strengthening these critical foundations so that AI can take root and flourish in developing countries.’’

He announced that the World Bank Group is committed to helping countries harness AI for inclusive and sustainable development, including supporting the 4Cs, strengthening data governance, championing regulatory and institutional reforms, and investing in the human capital essential to thrive in today’s digital era.

Further, the Director indicated that new World Bank Group digital strategy includes AI readiness as a core pillar. It also emphasizes the importance of having dynamic local innovation ecosystems and ensuring that AI tools are aligned with local realities and priorities.

He pointed out that policies that promote competition and equitable distribution of AI gains will be critical for mitigating risks and ensuring broad-based benefits. As the AI era accelerates, developing countries need to be prepared to leap forward. Small AI offers a unique opportunity to bypass traditional development barriers and spark homegrown innovation and inclusive growth.

He said this report is a call for collective and strategic action. To ensure that AI becomes a force for shared prosperity, rather than a new source of inequality, adding that people must work together to expand access, close skill gaps, manage risks, and shape a future where the transformative power of AI truly benefits everyone.

Ends/MP

27/12/2025

PM HANDS OVER MAIN TRAFFIC CIRCLE

MASERU -- Prime Minister (PM), Mr. Samuel Matekane will officially usher the nation into the 2026 season through the public handover of two landmark urban developments, the newly transformed Makoanyane Square and the Main Traffic Roundabout in Maseru on new year’s eve.

Press Attache at the PM’s Office, Mr. Thapelo Mabote said these developments represent more than infrastructure upgrades, they mark a renewed national identity, a confident capital city and a clear statement that Lesotho is investing in liveable cities, cultural pride, tourism growth and economic vibrancy.

He said the revitalised Makoanyane Square has been reimagined as a people’s space, a civic heart where culture, commerce, creativity and community intersect. It is designed to host public gatherings, cultural expression, tourism activities and social interaction, reaffirming Maseru as a welcoming capital for Basotho and visitors alike.

‘’Similarly, the upgraded Main Traffic Roundabout stands as a symbol of movement , connection and progress reflecting a modern city that is orderly, efficient and future facing. Together, these developments enhance urban mobility, safety, aesthetics as well as the overall experience of the city.

He indicated that to commemorate this milestone, the government will host a national celebration at Makoanyane Square, running from evening to midnight, adding that this celebration will mark a transition from preparation to purpose from vision to lived reality and it will be a moment for Basotho to gather , reflect , celebrate and reclaim pride in their capital city.

He said these projects speak directly to government’s broader agenda which is revitalising city centres to stimulate tourism and local business, creating safe, inclusive public spaces, enhancing national image and investor confidence, restoring pride in shared national spaces as Lesotho steps into 2026, noting that these developments affirm a simple truth, development must be visible, meaningful and felt by the people.

Ends/MP/ml

26/12/2025

ELDERLY PEOPLE CELEBRATE BOXING DAY

MASERU - Elderly people gathered at Sekamaneng, enjoyed lunch together in celebration of Boxing Day.

The activity organised by a youth born and bred in the village, is part of him giving back to the society that supported and nurtured him when he lost his parents.

Upon arrival at this place, one of the elderly people, Nkhono 'Mathabo Lekoro aged 70 said the 'get together' event provides them an opportunity to celebrate, comfort each other and map way forward for the New Year.

"As elderly people, we go through different challenges, some of us do not understand ourselves, thus coming together help us to heal, comfort each other and build on our dreams," she said.

Event organiser, Teboho Mokhele told the Agency that having received support from Sekamaneng community it is only fair that he gives back.

Mr. Mokhele who is also a Teacher at Phomolong high school stated that this event has also brought children, some of whom are orphans hence offers them an opportunity to also celebrate with their peers.

He appealed to communities to continue supporting the less privileged, adding through his life, he has attested that truly it takes a community to raise a child.

Ends/AM/ml

26/12/2025

TOTALENERGIES GETS INTO SECOND ROUND OF GROUP-STAGE MATCHES

MASEERU -- The second round of group-stage matches at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco is set to elevate the tournament from early promise to genuine intensity, with a run of heavyweight clashes and historic rivalries that could begin to define the path to the knockout stages from today.

AFCON says after an opening round marked by goals, late drama and early statements of intent, the competition now moves into a phase where reputation, pedigree and psychology begin to matter just as much as form.

It further indicates that the first round produced 29 goals across 12 matches and six clean sheets, underlining a competition finely balanced between attacking ambition and defensive discipline. With margins already tight in most groups, the second set of fixtures arrives as a potential separator between contenders and chasers.

Several of Africa’s most decorated sides are set to collide over the next three days, while regional derbies add an extra edge to fixtures where pride often outweighs the points on offer.

AFCON has highlighted that Friday’s meeting between Egypt and South Africa is one of the round’s headline encounters. These two sides share a long and often tense history at the Africa Cup of Nations, with their meetings frequently shaping tournament narratives.

Both teams opened with victories, Egypt relying once again on the decisive presence of Mohamed Salah, while South Africa edged past Angola through late composure and Lyle Foster’s calm finishing. With both sitting on three points, the contest carries significant weight in the battle for top spot in Group B.

Beyond the tactics, this is a clash defined by pedigree, seven-time champions against a side that has repeatedly proven capable of upsetting Africa’s elite.

With both sides opened with victories, and with attacking quality on both benches, the contest could prove decisive in determining who tops the group. Angola and Zimbabwe, beaten in their openers, face a must-win encounter earlier in the day.

Later on Friday, hosts Morocco face Mali in a match layered with symbolism. Morocco arrive as Africa’s first-ever World Cup semi-finalists, buoyed by home support and early composure, but Mali bring a squad brimming with athleticism, intensity and technical quality.

Brahim Díaz’s goal in the opener signalled Morocco’s attacking threat, yet Mali’s midfield energy driven by Lassine Sinayoko’s relentless work rate ensures this will be far from routine. For Mali, a positive result would dramatically shift the balance in Group A. Zambia clash with Comoros in the group’s other game on Friday.

Saturday’s showdown between Senegal and DR Congo in Tangier promises another bruising encounter. Meetings between these sides have rarely lacked intensity, and both arrive with confidence after opening-round wins and clean sheets.

Senegal’s authority was underlined by Nicolas Jackson’s brace, while Iliman Ndiaye dictated tempo and movement. DR Congo, meanwhile, showed tactical maturity and defensive discipline, suggesting they will not be easily overrun.

With elite talent across both squads, this fixture could prove decisive in determining who controls Group D. Benin will take on Botswana in the group’s other game on the day.

Beyond the glamour ties, the regional derby between Tanzania and Uganda adds another layer to the second round. Neighbours with deep familiarity, matches between the two are traditionally fiery, intense and unpredictable, often defying form and expectation.

Algeria’s clash with Burkina Faso also carries weight. Algeria’s emphatic opening display, led by Riyad Mahrez, meets a Burkina Faso side buoyed by late drama and belief. Both know victory would virtually secure qualification.

After one round, AFCON 2025 already feels unforgiving. Established contenders are being tested early, while emerging sides continue to show resilience and ambition.

As rivalries resurface and heavyweight squads collide, the second round promises not just entertainment, but clarity, revealing who is ready to go deep, and who may already be running out of room for error.

Ends/MP/ml

26/12/2025

ALCOHOL ABUSE AMONG YOUTH ALARMS COMMUNITY MEMBERS

MASERU-- Alcohol abuse among young people has become a growing concern in Thamae village, with community members warning that the problem is affecting education, family relationships, and community safety.

Residents say peer pressure, unemployment, and easy access to alcohol continue to push many youths into alcohol abuse, prompting calls for stronger intervention and youth focused programs.

Mr. Keketso Khobai said drug and alcohol abuse remain high in the village, with young boys aged 16 and above being the most affected.

Mr. Khobai said peer pressure and unemployment are major contributing factors, as many youths have nothing constructive to keep them busy, especially during the waiting period before going to tertiary institutions.

He added that alcohol abuse has damaged relationships between parents and their children.

"Many youths no longer respect their parents, often arrive home late, and in some cases steal money from home to buy alcohol," he said.

He further noted that although the legal age for buying alcohol is 18, underage youths often use older people to purchase alcohol on their behalf, exposing them to criminal activities.

He said the problem could be addressed by encouraging youth participation in sports and by creating employment opportunities for young people.

Ms. Rethabile Hlosi said alcohol abuse affects a large number of youths, with about 80 percent starting to drink during their teenage years. She attributed this mainly to peer pressure and the search for entertainment, particularly at clubs and public bars.

Ms. Hlosi said alcohol abuse has led to serious consequences, including poor school attendance, increased crime, and rising cases of teenage pregnancy.

He added that fights often break out at entertainment venues, sometimes resulting in serious injuries or loss of life.

She suggested that the problem can be reduced by promoting sports and recreational activities for youths, as well as encouraging the availability of non-alcoholic drinks at social events to limit alcohol consumption.

Mr. Kabelo Mpomane said the use of alcohol among youths is widespread in the village, especially on weekends and during social gatherings.

He said many young people start drinking between the ages of 14 and 18 due to curiosity, peer influence, lack of guidance at home, and unemployment.

Mr. Mpomane explained that alcohol abuse has negatively affected education, health, and social relationships.

He said many youths experience poor academic performance, school dropout, mental health challenges, and addiction, while others become involved in theft, violence, and other criminal activities.

He added that addressing alcohol abuse requires a collective effort from parents, community leaders, and the government.

Mr. Mpomane said stricter control of alcohol sales, youth empowerment programs, skills development, and job creation are essential to protect the future of young people.

Ends/MAMAJ

26/12/2025

CHIEF MOLAPO UNPACKS BOXING DAY

MASERU – Boxing day also known as offering day remains part of Christmas festivities, one that should continue to be honoured and given the seriousness it deserves, especially among Christians.

Chief Mikia Molapo shared these sentiments in an interview with the Agency on Friday, when giving an insight about boxing day.

He explained that while Christmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ, this day strengthens more the birth of Jesus Christ, highlighting the need to continue exchanging gifts, particularly to the less privileged.

He said God loved the world so much, thus He has given out His own begotten son so that those who believe in Him would not perish, indicating the highest gift God’s people can share is love.

He reiterated that even in Sesotho, it is a known fact that once a child is born, many start visiting such a place to share gifts of different sorts. “It is therefore important that we continue to love, give out gifts and promote the spirit of oneness.”

According to Chief Molapo, on this day when Basotho renew their love for one another so that as the country has just commemorated 200 years marking the existence of the nation, this boxing day should provide an opportunity to build a strong nation beyond bicentennial.

He appealed to all to remember the importance of being cautious even in celebration, indicating Basotho should not forget the principles of Morena Moshoeshoe I who ensured that in all he does, peace prevail.

Boxing day is reported to be a holiday celebrated on December 26 after Christmas day, thus being considered the second day of Christmas.

ENDS/AM/ml

Lesotho News Agency

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