Lesotho celebrates 40 years of independence

By Nadia Samie
6 October 2006

The Kingdom of Lesotho celebrates 40 years of independence this month. Lesotho obtained its independence in October 1966 after being a British protectorate for over one hundred years.

South African Transport Minister Jeff Radebe will deliver the keynote address during celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary at Lesotho’s High Commission Office in Pretoria this afternoon.

Lesotho High Commissioner Mosuoe Moteane will host the event, with Radebe as the guest of honour.

As part of the 40^th celebrations, Lesotho has unveiled a new national flag. The old military emblem of a shield, spear and knobkerrie has been replaced by a traditional cone-shaped hat on a background of blue, white and green.

The hat is worn by indigenous Basotho people and was on the first independence flag, but was replaced after a coup. Lesotho says its new flag represents that it is at peace with itself and its neighbours.