Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso is redefining the role of royalty in Lesotho, not just as a symbol of unity but as an active force for positive change.
Through her growing portfolio of social initiatives, Queen ‘Masenate is steadily becoming one of the most impactful champions of health, education, and dignity for the country’s most vulnerable communities.
At the heart of her work is Hlokomela Banana, an initiative dedicated to empowering girls during menstruation. The initiative, inspired by a desire to end school absenteeism caused by period poverty, provides sanitary products and menstrual health education to girls across the country.
The initiative is funded through the Queen’s National Trust Fund (QNTF) and, notably, several companies that have been generous enough to buy into its vision.
“No girl should have to choose between her dignity and her education.” These words by the Queen have since become synonymous with the campaign.
Thanks to this work, many schools are now reporting improved attendance and confidence among girls, a testament to the programme’s transformative effect.
But Her Majesty’s advocacy does not stop there. She is also using sport and environmental action to drive broader messages of health and responsibility.
Her recent participation in the Maseru City Run’s 10-kilometre race reflected her belief in leading by example, encouraging Basotho, especially girls, to stay active and healthy.
At the same time, through the Trust Fund, Her Majesty is also tackling healthcare challenges, particularly those faced by people living with disabilities.
In a recent donation drive, QNTF delivered medical equipment including surgical scrubs, gowns, wheelchairs, crutches, and more to hospitals and institutions like LANFOD and seven CHAL hospitals.
The equipment was provided in partnership with local organisations, many of which have been working with a number of her initiatives.
“This contribution will enhance the quality of healthcare and restore the dignity and mobility of Basotho living with disabilities,” the Queen said.
She urged recipients to take care of the equipment and reaffirmed the importance of collaboration in addressing national healthcare challenges.
Minister of Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture and Social Development, Pitso Lesaoana, praised the initiative, highlighting how such efforts align with the Disability Equity Act and international conventions.
“This donation supports the freedom of movement and full participation of persons with disabilities in society,” he said. “We are all vulnerable at some stage in life, and ensuring dignity and access for everyone benefits the entire nation.”
From menstrual dignity to healthcare access and physical fitness, Queen ‘Masenate’s impact is wide-ranging and deeply felt. Her work reminds us that progress is not just about policy, it is about compassion, consistency, and collective action. Through her leadership, Basotho are not only being supported, they are being empowered.
Authored by our expert team of writers and editors, with thorough research.
