By: Thoboloko Ntšonyane
MAFETENG- World Vision Lesotho has repurposed its buildings in Sekameng, Mafeteng for the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition and the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS).
The handover took place last Friday at Sekameng.
In a celebratory ceremony that had attracted the presence of cabinet Ministers, senior government officials and police top brass, World Vision officially handed over the three roomed house to the Ministry of Agriculture and the four roomed house to the LMPS. These formerly World Vision offices will now be turned into the offices of these two institutions that will serve the Sekameng community and surrounds.
World Vision National Director James Chifwelu remarked that: “We come together not just to hand over a site and a 3-roomed house but to celebrate the enduring spirit of partnership and shared commitment to the well-being of this community.
“The partnership between World Vision and the Government of Lesotho has been instrumental in the progress we’ve witnessed over the years in Sekameng. Our shared vision was to ensure continuous service delivery even as Sekameng Area Programme transitions.”
He further highlighted that their partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture has been a “beacon of hope” adding that even as the programme phases out at Sekameng the Ministry will ensure sustainability of the programme.
The Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition Hon Thabo Mofosi praised World Vision saying handing over of the buildings symbolizes shared commitment to sustainability and prosperity of the communities around Sekameng.
Accepting the gesture, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Dr Mahlape Morai thanked World Vision saying the building will be resourceful in hosting the police.
She said Sekameng and surrounding villages have been without a police post for years and they have to travel far to go to the police, as far as Tšakholo or Mafeteng town.
“I am pleased to convey my gratitude to World Vision Lesotho for the donation turned over today, as well as the long lasting partnership between World Vision and LMPS for many worthy safety and security courses.”
Dr Morai said this gesture will enable them to perform their functions with ease at Sekameng.
DCP told the residents that they will soon enjoy the policing services.
“Police presence in this place is a step in the right direction as investors can now come to invest in this place,” she said.
Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police Hon Lebona Lephema said the Mafeteng District Police Commissioner (DISPOL) Senior Superintendent Leabua Shale will soon deploy police officers in this new police post.
“As we move forward, let us reaffirm our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” added the World Vision National Director.