14 May 2014

Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso of Lesotho has been hailed as a role model in championing the fight against HIV and protection of vulnerable children and the disabled.

Speaking during Queen Mohato’s visit to Stepping Stones International (SSI) in Mochudi on May 13, executive director of SSI, Lisa Jamu, said they were honored and humbled by the Queen’s visit.

“Your character and achievements are testimony to your enviable core beliefs. They resonate with the ideals of humanitarianism, charity, leadership and promotion of life skills, which identify who we are SSI,” said Ms Jamu.

She explained that SSI is not only an after school program for orphans and vulnerable youth between 12-18 years old, but also a place where they can get a nutritious meal, play games and receive assistance with homework. She added that SSI helps the youth to improve their literacy skills, reduce self-stigma related to HIV and improve compliance in taking medication.

“SSI has helped many youth feel protected from abuse and realize the value of investing in their passions, while providing them with opportunities to experience dignified growth.

We focus on four core areas which are life skills, psychosocial support, leadership and community advocacy and mobilization,” she said.

Ms Jamu likened SSI to Lesotho’s Graff Leadership Center as they both identity with Mr Laurence Graff, shareholder in SAFDICO Diamond Company, through the FACET foundation for African children.

She hailed Queen Mohato as a role model for the youth and many Batswana who set the trend by giving herself and her all through committed leadership and dedication to everything she does.

Her Majesty the Queen was accompanied by Mrs Kelebone Skelemani and other senior government officials. ENDS