Lesotho Girl Guides Association Set to Launch 100th Anniversary Led by Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate

Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso, patron of the Lesotho Girl Guides Association, will on December 13 launch the association’s 100th anniversary in Maseru. The event will open a year of national activities that will run throughout 2026.

Chief Commissioner Mrs. Mabohlale Emile confirmed the launch and explained that each district will host its own activities. These activities will reflect the association’s impact in communities and highlight its work over the past century. She said the association continues to uphold its mandate and added that efforts are underway to revive Girl Guides in villages, schools and churches.

Membership declined after COVID-19. Mrs. Emile said the association deployed recruiters across all districts to rebuild awareness and encourage enrolment. Before the pandemic, teachers served as unit leaders, but increased workloads have made it difficult for them to lead and recruit new members.

She also linked the decline in membership to limited sponsorship. She noted that new school clubs receive school funding for activities while Girl Guides depend on parental contributions. This has made it harder for many girls to join or stay active.

From December 10 to 14, the association will host a camp focused on its achievements, programs and policies. The camp will strengthen understanding of the association’s values and identity. Motivational speakers and counsellors will address the youth to encourage leadership and confidence.

The Lesotho Girl Guides Association was founded in 1925 as Basutoland Wayfarer. It later became affiliated with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. Most members are school based and records from 2008 show a membership of 1,783 girls. The association aims to empower girls and young women with practical skills, leadership abilities and opportunities for personal growth.

Leadership of the organisation has changed over the decades. It was led by British commissioners during the colonial era until 1966 when it received its first Mosotho commissioner.

The upcoming launch marks a historic moment for the association. It celebrates a century of service and sets the tone for renewed growth, stronger community presence and increased visibility across the country.