In a powerful demonstration of unity and shared purpose, the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police, together with World Vision International Lesotho, has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children’s rights and well-being. This milestone was marked by the grand opening of a newly constructed, child-friendly Child and Gender Protection Unit (CGPU) office in Pitseng, Leribe—a vital step forward in the country’s fight against child abuse and exploitation.
The launch ceremony was attended by government officials, police leaders, World Vision representatives, and children, who together celebrated the realisation of a safe space designed specifically for the protection and empowerment of young people.
A Shared Mission for Child Safety
Deputy Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police delivered a compelling address at the event, highlighting the critical need for collective action.
“Protecting children, especially through the CGPU, remains one of the most challenging but vital mandates of the police service,” he said. “This is a mammoth task—one that the police cannot achieve alone.”
The facility, made possible through the enduring partnership with World Vision, aims to offer children a dignified and supportive environment to report abuse and receive help without fear or intimidation.
Children Find Their Voice
For many children, the opening of the CGPU office is more than a new building—it’s a space where they feel seen, heard, and safe. “As children, we already feel confident to walk inside,” said youth representative Mafolofolo. “This place feels familiar, like it belongs to us.”
Mafolofolo also presented a powerful message on behalf of the children of Pitseng, urging the police leadership to:
- Increase staffing for child-related cases
- Allocate a dedicated CGPU vehicle for emergencies
- Provide qualified trauma counsellors
- Ensure that all abuse cases are pursued in court
A Renewed Commitment from the Police
In his response, Commissioner of Police Advocate Borotho Matsoso acknowledged the value of the partnership with World Vision, stating that it had helped realign the police’s priorities with traditional Basotho values of caring for women and children.
“We’ve long struggled to give adequate attention to children’s needs,” said Adv Matsoso. “But this partnership reminds us of our roots and our duty to protect the most vulnerable.”
World Vision’s support has been pivotal, providing 10,000 medical forms, 5,000 child detention forms, suggestion boxes, and even vehicles to aid CGPU operations. More importantly, it has helped establish similar offices in seven additional communities, including Mount Moorosi, Upper Moyeni, Sekameng, Matelile, Thabana Morena, Sefikeng, and Rothe.
A Community-Led Movement for Protection
The new CGPU office is thoughtfully designed with four vibrant, child-friendly rooms to help children feel at ease. Officers stationed here have received specialised training to ensure dignified, timely, and empathetic service delivery. Citizens Voice and Action (CVA) committees have also played a crucial role in making the facilities accessible to all, including children with disabilities.
“We go to schools to teach about children’s rights and to ensure that every child, regardless of their ability, can access justice,” said a CVA member.
Real Change, Real Impact
Children shared heartfelt testimonies about how the new CGPU has transformed their community. Leeto praised World Vision’s broader impact, noting improvements like clean water and sanitation at schools. Masabata, speaking on behalf of Pitseng Primary School learners, made an emotional plea to end child labour and early marriage: “We should be in school, not herding animals or caring for babies. We have a right to education.”
Training the Police to Protect with Dignity
Ahead of the launch, World Vision trained CGPU officers on proper child protection protocols, ensuring that cases are handled within 48 hours and with the utmost care and sensitivity. This training is already making a difference in how children are treated and how cases are managed across districts.
A Brighter Future for Child Protection in Lesotho
The opening of the Pitseng CGPU office stands as a beacon of hope and a model of what community-driven, child-centred partnerships can achieve. With ongoing training, strengthened collaboration, and continued investment in facilities and services, Lesotho is making meaningful strides toward a future where every child feels safe, protected, and valued.
As the Deputy Principal Secretary reminded all in attendance, “The change we wish to see is in our hands. When we invest in our children, we invest in the future of Lesotho.”
