The Government of Lesotho has pledged its support for the United Republic of Tanzania in the upcoming elections for the next Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) – African Region, set to take place in Geneva next month.
This commitment was announced by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Mr. Lejone Mpotjoane, during the official visit of Tanzania’s Minister of Health, Mrs. Jenister Mhagama, to Lesotho on Wednesday. Mrs. Mhagama visited the country as a special envoy of the President of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Hassan.
Speaking during the meeting, Mr. Mpotjoane emphasized the longstanding and cordial relations between Lesotho and Tanzania, highlighting their shared cooperation under the Southern African Development Community (SADC). He affirmed Lesotho’s intention to stand with Tanzania in support of its candidate for the key WHO leadership position.
“Lesotho and Tanzania enjoy mutual relations founded on trust and regional solidarity. Our support for Tanzania’s candidate reflects this strong partnership,” he stated.
Mrs. Mhagama, who also paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister, Mr. Ntsokoane Matekane, revealed that she had delivered a special message from President Hassan. The message appealed for Lesotho’s support of Tanzania’s nominee—Mrs. Mhagama herself—for the role of WHO Regional Director for Africa.
Lesotho’s endorsement adds significant weight to Tanzania’s campaign, as countries across the African continent prepare to vote on the next regional leader who will oversee critical public health initiatives under the WHO’s African Region mandate.
