The International Day of the Boy Child was commemorated in Lesotho on May 16, 2026 through a vibrant marathon aimed at promoting physical fitness, unity, protection, and the empowerment of boys.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development, attracted participants from athletics associations, World Vision, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and members of the public, all joining hands to celebrate and uplift boys across the country.
Queen ’MasenateMohatoSeeiso, child rights advocates, and government officials attended the celebration, which highlighted the importance of supporting boys to become responsible and productive members of society.
The marathon featured three race categories – 10km, 5km, and 1.6km, with participants competing according to age groups. The 10km race catered for adult men and women as well as older boys and girls, while the 5km race targeted middle-aged boys and girls. Younger children took part in the 1.6km race.
Speaking after the event, Director of the Child Protection Department in the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Mookho Motheo Lekhanya, said this year’s commemoration focused on building boys’ self-confidence and creating supportive environments where they can grow into responsible men.
He noted that many boys continue to face challenges that affect their emotional wellbeing, academic progress, and future opportunities.
“The race served as a reminder that boys matter and need guidance, protection, and emotional support from families, schools, and society as a whole,” Lekhanya said.
“We want boys to know that they are important, that their voices deserve to be heard, and that society must create safe spaces where they can grow and succeed.”
Lekhanya added that activities organised nationwide are intended to encourage good behaviour, strengthen mental resilience, and promote healthy lifestyles among boys.
She stressed that empowering boys today will help build stronger families and communities in the future.
Athletics coach Thabo Mosebekoa expressed satisfaction with the turnout and praised the success of the celebrations.
“We are pleased with how the International Day of the Boy Child celebrations have gone. We appreciate the presence of Her Majesty, and we hope to see even more children participating in future celebrations,” he said.
Mosebekoa further encouraged parents to support and motivate their sons to participate in similar activities next year.
Members of the community also welcomed the initiative, saying it was important for the nation to openly address issues affecting boys.
Molefi Moeketsi, one of the youths who attended the event, , called for more programmes aimed at equipping boys with life skills, leadership abilities, and employment opportunities.
He said many boys fall into negative behaviour because of limited support and guidance. Moeketsi thanked parents for encouraging participation and said boys were happy to celebrate a day that made them feel valued and cared for.
He urged boys to conduct themselves responsibly, respect women and girls, avoid crime and drug abuse, and view education as the key to a brighter future.
On his part, the Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development Pitso Lesaoana reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening programmes that promote education, physical fitness, and health among young people.
Messages of unity, responsibility, discipline, and self-respect formed a central part of the celebrations as participants gathered to mark the annual event, observed globally every May 16.
Summary
- The International Day of the Boy Child was commemorated in Lesotho on May 16, 2026 through a vibrant marathon aimed at promoting physical fitness, unity, protection, and the empowerment of boys.
- The event, organised by the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development, attracted participants from athletics associations, World Vision, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and members of the public, all joining hands to celebrate and uplift boys across the country.
- Speaking after the event, Director of the Child Protection Department in the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Mookho Motheo Lekhanya, said this year’s commemoration focused on building boys’ self-confidence and creating supportive environments where they can grow into responsible men.
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.
