By: T’soloane Mohlomi
The American Embassy to the Kingdom of Lesotho (US Embassy) recently held a ceremony to mark the presentation of 36 new Peace Corps tipped to work in the Kingdom of Lesotho.
The Peace Corps will be deployed in all the ten districts of Lesotho in this current month, and the bulk of them (going under the code name LS 91) hail from 20 States in the United State’s Guam Territory and speak an array of languages among their midst.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Bereng Seeiso said the partnership between Lesotho and the US is worth celebrating because it signifies the warm and cordial relations between the two countries. She said the occasion was important because they gathered there to celebrate brave individuals who had dedicated their lives to fostering peace and goodwill in the Kingdom of Lesotho.
“Your Excellencies distinguished guests Ladies and gentlemen we are gathered here today to witness the staunchness of individuals who are committed to fostering goodwill and progress in our communities, this group of individuals will dedicate their lives to the people of Lesotho so they can be able to navigate their daily challenges.
“To you Ladies and gentlemen, the communities, it is our responsibility to acknowledge all their profound efforts and embrace them peacefully within our communities, she said.
“To our esteemed Peace Corps volunteers today marks a profound commitment, an oath of not just to serve but immerse yours elves in the heart beat of Lesotho. You embark on a journey that transcends boundaries, a journey that intertwines cultures hearts and aspirations.
“Your presence here embodies the spirit of cooperation and understanding that resonates beyond words. Your decision to devote your time skills and compassion to the development of the Kingdom of Lesotho speaks volumes about your character and believe in the power of unity. You join a legacy of individuals who have left an invaluable mark shaping lives and futures through their selflessness and resilience.
“In a world often divided by differences your role as ambassadors of peace and friendship is of paramount importance. Your efforts transcend the material, they cultivate the understanding, bridge gaps and nature the very fabric of our society.
“Esteemed new peace corps volunteers, as you take this oath today remember that your journeys will not be without any challenges, embrace these challenges as opportunities to learn and grow for it is through adversity that the seeds of resilience and determination take root.
“Please remember you are not alone, your host families, colleagues and neighbours are there to walk beside you throughout the difficult moments as well as the moments of celebration. Let us remember that the essence of the Peace Corps lies not only in the projects you undertake as volunteers or the initiatives you spearhead, but in the relationships you forge, the bonds you nature and the lives you touch.
“To the host families in Marakabei and the whole community who are going to continue to support these individuals, to all the men and women who have been assisting them in the past I just want to thank you for your efforts in helping them learn the language, our customs and the norms of life here in Marakabei.
“Peace Corps volunteers as you go out into our villages along the districts of this country, you won’t see much of a change because you’ve already learned our valuable customs and norms which apply to all Basotho.
“To the whole Basotho nation, you are part of this mission of peace and friendship ladies and gentlemen, your role in this journey cannot be understated, your contribution during these weeks will be the anchor that steadies our Peace Corps volunteers through their service.”
On her part the U.S Ambassador to the Kingdom of Lesotho H.E. Maria A. Brewer also took the opportunity to thank the community of Marakabei for their warm welcome and the integral part they played in the training of the Peace Corps volunteers. She lauded the volunteers for their brave efforts and said however challenging it will become it will be worthy.
“To all our volunteers thank you so much for your brave efforts. Thank you as well to the Peace Corps staff your care and love for the Peace Corps Mission cannot be overstated thank you for all that you do every day. Thank you also to the community of Marakabei for helping to prepare this cohort to become integral members of their new communities.
The Peace Corps is an independent agency and program of the United States government that trains and deploys volunteers to provide international development assistance.
One of the mission’s key objective is to promote world peace and friendship by fulfilling three goals: To help the countries interested in meeting their needs for trained people. To help promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the people served. To promote a better understanding of other people on the part of Americans.