Lesotho Recognized for Progress in Ending Violence Against Children at Arise Africa Conference

Lesotho has received continental recognition for its efforts to protect children from violence, following its participation in the Arise Africa Advancing the Bogotá Commitments conference in Ethiopia. The meeting, held one year after the first Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children in Bogotá, Colombia, brought together African countries to assess progress on pledges made to protect children.

At the Bogotá conference on 7-8 November 2024, over 100 countries attended, and the Right Honourable Prime Minister Samual Ntsokoane Matekane pledged Lesotho’s commitment to end violence against children. The Arise Africa conference aimed to evaluate how African nations have implemented strategies and policies to fulfill these commitments.

Lesotho was highlighted as a leading example in reinventing protective systems for children. The country has established a 24/7 child helpline and trained caregivers nationwide in trauma-sensitive responses. Child helpline staff are permanent social workers employed by the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development under Child Protection Services. This approach ensures professional and sustained support for vulnerable children.

The award recognizing Lesotho’s achievements was received by Ms. Mookho Motheo, Director of Child Protection Services. She noted that the initiative reflects the government’s dedication to safeguarding children and strengthening child protection frameworks nationwide.

Arise Africa, the body overseeing the assessment, is supported by WHO, UNICEF, and the Africa Child Policy Forum. The conference stressed the importance of continuous monitoring, capacity building, and cross-country collaboration to accelerate the elimination of violence against children across Africa.

Lesotho’s progress demonstrates how targeted interventions and strong institutional support can protect children, provide timely assistance, and build a safer environment for future generations.