Youth Advocate Liteboho Lebese Urges Lesotho to Prioritize Homeless Children in Disaster Planning

Liteboho Lebese, a 22-year-old member of the World Vision Lesotho Youth Parliament, is calling on the Lesotho government to include homeless children in its disaster preparedness strategy. She argues that this vulnerable group was overlooked during the COVID-19 prevention planning and must not be ignored in future emergencies.

Speaking passionately about the issue, Ms. Lebese highlighted the extreme risks faced by homeless children during crises.

“Homeless children often lack access to basic necessities like shelter, food, and healthcare, making them particularly susceptible to the impacts of disasters,” she said. “It is imperative that the government recognizes their unique needs and ensures their safety and well-being in times of crisis.”

Her plea comes amid growing concerns about the country’s ability to protect vulnerable populations during emergencies. She urged policymakers to create targeted interventions that guarantee access to essential services for homeless children, ensuring they are not left behind in disaster response efforts.

As a youth leader, Lebese’s advocacy reflects a broader push for more inclusive and compassionate disaster planning in Lesotho, one that considers the most marginalized groups in society.