In a proactive effort to equip the younger generation with essential life-saving skills, the Disaster Management Authority (DMA) of Lesotho, in collaboration with several partners, hosted a Disaster Preparedness and Risk Reduction (DPPR) event yesterday at Ha Khoeli, Koro-Koro, Maseru. This gathering brought together students from Khoeli, Motlepu, Nkoeng, Mokema Primary Schools, and St. Joseph Primary and Secondary Schools, focusing on building awareness and resilience in disaster preparedness.
DMA CEO Reatile Elias explained that while the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is typically observed on October 13, this year’s celebration was postponed to November 13, 2024, to accommodate Lesotho’s bicentennial Independence Day events. Elias emphasized that managing both natural and man-made disasters is a shared responsibility, requiring education at all levels to protect lives and build resilient communities. The DMA’s mandate includes planning and implementing risk reduction strategies, coordinating disaster response, providing early warnings, and collaborating with stakeholders to protect vulnerable groups, especially children.
The event featured live demonstrations led by the Lesotho Mounted Police Service’s Water Search and Rescue team, who illustrated practical rescue techniques for floods and other emergencies. Students learned how to help others in distress, stabilise those in need, and follow safe evacuation procedures, gaining critical skills they can use to assist in emergencies or protect themselves when necessary. The importance of these skills was underscored by one of the students, who recited a moving poem expressing the fears faced by young people: “Disaster being brutal, destroying where it did not make, taking off the roofs of classrooms, where do you want students to learn at?”
In an exclusive interview with the Weekly Observer, Senior Inspector Mabitle from the Water Search and Rescue Department highlighted the increased demand on his team and the urgent need for additional resources, equipment, and training. Mabitle emphasized how disasters, particularly those impacting food security, directly affect children. He cited a recent rockfall in Ha Rankhepe that tragically killed a shephard and his herd of over 200 animals, highlighting the far-reaching impacts of natural disasters on livelihoods and communities. Mabitle also disclosed that water bodies are sometimes used to conceal crime evidence; just this week, on November 11, the body of a young man was found in Maqalika. Mabitle urged anyone who might recognize the individual, who was found with distinguishing clothing and items, to assist in identification.
Minister Limpho Tau from the Prime Minister’s Office addressed the audience, noting that Lesotho is currently in its peak disaster season, with Ha Khoeli often affected by heavy winds that leave many households roofless. He further recounted a recent incident where strong winds damaged 18 homes in Ha Mokhalinyane, stressing the importance of proper roofing safety. While it is common practice to use stones to weigh down rooftops against wind, improperly placed stones can fall through, creating additional hazards. The government, Tau mentioned, is actively working to repair over 500 homes that remain damaged from previous disasters, demonstrating a commitment to support affected communities.
Despite the economic challenges in Ha Khoeli, the area holds significant potential for development through its abundant natural resources. With three large dams providing ample water, deposits of indigenous stones like moralla and lesehloa, and vast farms suited for agriculture, the region could support industries that would benefit the community. However, the extraction of these resources is limited by a lack of machinery. Additionally, the local mohloare plant, which could yield olive oil of regional quality, is abundant in the area, further highlighting its economic potential. Utilizing these resources could create job opportunities, reduce poverty, and build a more sustainable community, ultimately benefiting children’s well-being.
The event was supported by multiple partners, including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Training, Lesotho Mounted Police Service, World Food Program, World Vision Lesotho, Econet Telecom Lesotho, and the Lesotho Red Cross Association. These partnerships reflect the collective commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and addressing disaster preparedness at a foundational level.
Collaboration among government bodies, communities, and organizations is essential to ensuring children’s well-being, particularly in vulnerable regions like Ha Khoeli, where heavy winds frequently damage homes. Through joint efforts, Lesotho can better protect and support its children, equipping them with disaster preparedness skills and building community resilience. The partnerships showcased in this event underscore the importance of a united commitment to foster a safer, more supportive environment where children can learn and grow despite environmental and economic challenges.
Hello Ts’episo. This article is well articulated and reflects accurately, the purpose of the event as well as activities and speeches made on the day.
Just a small correction, the rock fall that killed a shepered was at Ha Rankhelepe, while the houses destroyed by heavy winds are at Ha Mokhalinyane and not Qeme.
Thank you.
Thank you so much ntate for that. It’s highly appreciated. The two issues raised have been fixed