His Majesty King Letsie III stands as a symbol of continuity and progress in the Kingdom of Lesotho. Born Mohato Bereng Seeiso on July 17, 1963, at Scott Hospital in Morija, he is the eldest son of the late King Moshoeshoe II and Queen Mother Mamohato Bereng Seeiso. Baptized into the Roman Catholic Church as David, his early life and education reflect a blend of local and international influences that have shaped his reign. From his formative years at Iketsetseng Private School in Maseru to his advanced studies in the United Kingdom, King Letsie III’s journey is marked by a dedication to learning and a deep connection to his heritage. His reign has been characterized by a commitment to agricultural development, youth empowerment, and maintaining the cultural traditions of the Basotho people. Here are 20 things you should know about King Letsie III, a monarch who embodies both the storied past and the promising future of Lesotho.
- Royal Lineage: King Letsie III is the first son of the late King Moshoeshoe II and Queen Mother Mamohato Bereng Seeiso, born into a legacy of leadership.
- Birthplace and Early Life: Born on July 17, 1963, at Scott Hospital in Morija, he was named Mohato Bereng Seeiso and christened as David in the Roman Catholic Church.
- Primary Education: He began his primary education at Iketsetseng Private School in Maseru from 1968 to 1972, where he completed Standard Five.
- Education in the UK: Continuing his education in the United Kingdom, he attended Gilling Castle, a Roman Catholic School in Yorkshire, from 1973 to 1976.
- Secondary Education: Following in his father’s footsteps, King Letsie III attended Ampleforth College, completing his secondary and high school education in 1980.
- University of Lesotho: He pursued higher education at the National University of Lesotho, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Law in 1984.
- Further Studies in Law: Between 1984 and 1986, he earned a Diploma in English Legal Studies from the University of Bristol.
- Development Studies: In 1989, King Letsie III completed a year of study in Development Studies at the University of Cambridge.
- Agricultural Economics: Simultaneously, he studied Agricultural Economics at Wye College, University of London.
- Principal Chief of Matsieng: On December 16, 1989, he was installed as the Principal Chief of Matsieng.
- Ascension to Kingship: King Letsie III was sworn into office on November 12, 1990, following the new Office of the King Order NO. 14 of 1990.
- Temporary Abdication: He abdicated on January 25, 1995, to allow his father, King Moshoeshoe II, to be reinstated.
- Reinstallation as King: After the tragic death of his father on January 15, 1996, he was reinstalled as King on February 7, 1996.
- Coronation: His official coronation took place on October 31, 1997, in Maseru.
- Marriage: King Letsie III married Miss Karabo Anna Mots’oeneng on February 18, 2000. Their union is a celebrated aspect of his personal life.
- Royal Family: The King and Queen have three children: Princess Senate (born October 7, 2001), Princess ‘Maseeiso (born November 20, 2004), and Prince Lerotholi (born April 18, 2007).
- Passion for Agriculture: His Majesty has a keen love for agriculture, spending much of his leisure time at his family cattle posts and enjoying arable farming.
- Sporting Enthusiast: He enjoys horse riding, squash, tennis, and rugby, reflecting his active lifestyle.
- Music Lover: King Letsie III has a deep appreciation for both classical and traditional music.
- Youth Patronage: He is the patron of the Prince Mohato Award (Khau ea Khosana Mohato), a service program aimed at fostering the development and maturity of young people through practical, cultural, and adventurous activities.
King Letsie III’s life and reign are a testament to his dedication to his people and his country. His efforts in education, agriculture, and youth development highlight his commitment to ensuring a prosperous and culturally rich future for Lesotho. As a leader, he embodies the values of his ancestors while also embracing the opportunities and challenges of modern leadership. Through his initiatives and personal passions, King Letsie III continues to inspire and guide the Basotho people, ensuring that the legacy of the kingdom remains strong and vibrant. His vision and efforts are paving the way for a resilient and united Lesotho, deeply rooted in its heritage yet poised for a dynamic future.
