In a significant show of international support for grassroots sport, the United Kingdom, through its High Commission in Lesotho, donated a substantial consignment of rugby equipment to the Lesotho Rugby Academy on Monday during a handover ceremony held in Maseru.
The donation, facilitated by UK-based charity Kid Aid SOS, comprised approximately 30 boxes of rugby kits, including jerseys, boots, and balls, intended to bolster the Academy’s nationwide efforts to develop the sport among young Basotho.
Speaking at the event, British High Commissioner to Lesotho, Her Excellency Martine Sobey, commended the Lesotho Rugby Academy for its commitment to youth development through sport.
“Rugby is more than just a game it teaches unity, discipline, and resilience,” said Sobey.
“I wish the Lesotho Rugby Academy continued success in their mission to mentor young players. Sports play a vital role in uniting communities and engaging youth in positive activities.”
She further emphasised the importance of equitable distribution of the gear, urging the Academy’s leadership to ensure the equipment reaches all intended beneficiaries across the country.
Kid Aid SOS, the organisation behind the donation, was founded in 2001 and has since focused on equipping underserved communities around the world with sports equipment and apparel. Their partnership with Lesotho Rugby Academy dates back to 2014.
Litšitso Motšeremeli, representing the Academy, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the UK, revealing that the Academy receives two shipments of gear annually from Kid Aid SOS.
“We have also established partnerships with rugby clubs in the UK, and some have shown interest in recruiting our players to compete abroad. Though some players were set to travel to Wales, documentation delays have stalled the process. However, preparations are underway to ensure they eventually make the trip,” Motšeremeli said.
Motšeremeli also highlighted the Academy’s expanding international connections, with support now flowing from rugby clubs in Australia and Wales.
The newly donated gear will be distributed across the districts where the Lesotho Rugby Academy operates, supporting training and competitions held under its umbrella.
Founded in 2014, the Lesotho Rugby Academy has grown into a vital institution promoting rugby in schools and communities across the country. It is an active participant in the Econet Rugby League, which is set to resume this coming weekend after a lengthy hiatus.
Rugby fans can look forward to an exciting return, as the Maseru Warriors men’s and women’s teams prepare to host the Mabita Gorillas at their home ground.
Summary
- In a significant show of international support for grassroots sport, the United Kingdom, through its High Commission in Lesotho, donated a substantial consignment of rugby equipment to the Lesotho Rugby Academy on Monday during a handover ceremony held in Maseru.
- The donation, facilitated by UK-based charity Kid Aid SOS, comprised approximately 30 boxes of rugby kits, including jerseys, boots, and balls, intended to bolster the Academy’s nationwide efforts to develop the sport among young Basotho.
- Founded in 2014, the Lesotho Rugby Academy has grown into a vital institution promoting rugby in schools and communities across the country.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
