Vice President Mpango Arrives in Lesotho for Independence Celebrations

The Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Dr. Philip Mpango, has arrived in Maseru, Lesotho, to represent President Hon. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan at the celebrations marking 58 years of Lesotho’s Independence and 200 years of the establishment of the Kingdom of Lesotho.

Maseru, Lesotho – 4 October 2024
The Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Dr. Philip Mpango, has arrived in Maseru, Lesotho, to represent President Hon. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan at the celebrations of 58 years of Lesotho’s Independence and 200 years of the establishment of the Kingdom of Lesotho.

The Vice President was greeted at Moshoeshoe I International Airport by Lesotho’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Hon. Lesego Makgothi.

In a statement released by the Tanzanian High Commission in Lesotho, the visit was described as evidence of the strong bilateral relations between Tanzania and Lesotho.

Furthermore, the statement indicated that the Vice President will engage in discussions with Lesotho’s Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Moeketsi Majoro, and other senior government officials. Furthermore, he will be attending a number of events to commemorate Lesotho’s Independence and the establishment of the Kingdom.

Lesotho achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. The Kingdom of Lesotho was established in 1822 by King Moshoeshoe I.

Tanzania and Lesotho have a long history of successful collaboration. Both countries are members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Meeting with King Letsie III

The Vice President, Dr Mpango, met with His Majesty King Letsie III of Lesotho at the Royal Palace in Maseru with the objective of strengthening the collaboration between Tanzania and Lesotho. The meeting was held in preparation for the upcoming celebrations at the Setsoto Stadium.
King Letsie III welcomed Vice President Mpango to the Royal Palace in Maseru, where they discussed ways to strengthen the partnership between Tanzania and Lesotho.

This meeting served as a preliminary planning session for the upcoming festivities at Setsoto Stadium.

Statement from Vice President Mpango

In a statement, Vice President Mpango reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to fostering robust bilateral relations with Lesotho. He stated, “Our presence here today serves to demonstrate the profound and enduring friendship and cooperation that exists between our two nations.” “We anticipate that our partnership will continue to grow and strengthen in the years to come.”

Upcoming Celebrations

The Vice President and King Letsie III held a meeting to discuss the forthcoming celebrations, which are expected to be attended by dignitaries from around the globe. The celebrations will comprise traditional performances, addresses, and a military parade.

The forthcoming celebrations, which are anticipated to be attended by dignitaries from across the globe, will comprise traditional performances, addresses, and a military parade. The Vice President and King Letsie III discussed the forthcoming festivities, which will serve to celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Background

The United Republic of Tanzania and the Kingdom of Lesotho have a long-standing and mutually beneficial diplomatic relationship. The two countries have collaborated on a number of initiatives, including those related to trade, investment, and education.

The United Republic of Tanzania and the Kingdom of Lesotho have enjoyed amicable diplomatic relations since the two countries gained their independence. Bilateral cooperation has been facilitated through high-level visits, the signing of agreements, and participation in regional and international organisations. Tanzania has provided support to Lesotho in a number of sectors, including education, health and agriculture. Furthermore, the two countries have collaborated on matters of mutual interest, including regional peace and security.

Tanzania Media