Remarks by the Right Honourable The Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane during the signing ceremony of the three EU programmes

Allow me to pay my respects to:
His Majesty King Letsie III;
The President of the Senate;
The Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly;
His Lordship the Chief Justice;
The Honourable Deputy Prime Minster;
Honourable Ministers;
Your Excellency Ambassador Paola Amadei, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Lesotho;
Excellencies, Heads of Diplomatic Mission and International Organizations;
Distinguished Guests;
Ladies and Gentlemen.

It is with profound gratitude and a deep sense of shared purpose that I stand here today to witness the signing of these three transformative programmes: Inclusive Lesotho, Renewable Lesotho, and the Cooperation Facility and Support Measures for Civil Society. These initiatives reflect not only Lesotho’s unwavering commitment to progress but also the lasting partnership between the Kingdom of Lesotho and the European Union—a partnership that has endured over four decades of solidarity, collaboration, and mutual growth.

Today’s occasion is particularly significant as we commemorate 25 years of the African Union-European Union partnership, an inter- continental alliance that has championed peace, sustainable development, and people-centered governance. These milestones remind us that partnerships rooted in shared values and aspirations can transcend continents and generations.

Your Excellency, 
Ladies and Gentlemen,

As we reflect on decades of Lesotho-EU relations, we acknowledge the European Union’s unwavering support in our development journey. For nearly five decades, the EU has stood with us through moments of challenge and triumph, helping us to strengthen our democratic institutions, expand access to education and healthcare, and advance rural development.

The EU’s technical expertise and capacity-building initiatives have been pivotal in advancing Lesotho’s national reform process, enhancing governance structures that prioritise transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. From infrastructure projects to humanitarian assistance, the EU’s support has impacted countless lives, empowering Basotho to build a more resilient and equitable society.

Since the beginning of my tenure, I have witnessed firsthand the EU’s steadfast commitment to collaborating with the Government of Lesotho to better the lives of our people, particularly those in rural and remote communities. Whether through supporting agricultural interventions, climate resilience initiatives, or investing in community-led development programmes, the EU has proven to be a committed partner in our shared mission of ensuring that no one is left behind. This history of trust serves as a solid foundation for the initiatives we embark on today.

Your Excellency,

The agreements you signed today with Dr. Matlanyane, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Development Planning, mark a decisive leap forward. Inclusive Lesotho will deepen governance reforms, ensuring that voices of marginalised communities are heard and integrated into the fabric of our democracy. Meanwhile, Renewable Lesotho— is aligned with His Majesty King Letsie III’s visionary call for energy sovereignty—and accelerating our transition to clean energy by harnessing our God-given natural resources. By investing in solar, hydro, and wind energy, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also providing power to homes, industries, and innovation, asserting our right to self-reliance and economic dignity.

Equally transformative is the Cooperation Facility for Civil Society, which reaffirms our conviction that empowered citizens are the cornerstone of democracy. Together, these programmes transcend mere projects; they are the building blocks of the Lesotho we envision and aspire to —a nation that is just, green, and prosperous for all.

Your Excellency,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Building on today’s momentum, I am pleased to note that tomorrow’s EU-Lesotho Partnership Dialogue will further strengthen our collaboration. This structured platform allows us the opportunity to align priorities, evaluate progress, and co-develop solutions to emerging challenges.I am confident that through open and constructive dialogue, we will ensure that our partnership continues to evolve in ways that directly benefit the people of Lesotho, particularly in advancing governance, renewable energy, and civil society engagement and paving the way for even greater shared prosperity.

Excellencies, I would also like to officially welcome all the Ambassadors, who have travelled from Pretoria to join in the Lesotho/EU Partnership Dialogue tomorrow. I wish you all fruitful discussions and look forward to the outcomes that will undoubtedly benefit both the people of Lesotho and the European Union.

Your Excellency,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

As we close this ceremony, let us remember that partnerships are measured not by duration alone but by their enduring impact on generations. To the EU, I extend Lesotho’s heartfelt gratitude. Your collaboration has been a catalyst for transformation, driving institutional reforms and empowering communities. To our civil society, private sector, and Basotho at large, this achievement belongs to you. Together, we will ensure that these programmes uplift every Mosotho, leaving no one behind.

Khotso! Pula! Nala!