Acting Principal Secretary Mr. Nkhotha Machachamise noted that this year’s theme, “Solidarity with Refugees, #IBelong,” offers Lesotho an opportunity to renew and reaffirm its commitments to protecting displaced people.

“For us as a country, this day allows the government to revisit its pledges and reflect on how to strengthen refugee support systems,” he said, urging attendees to listen closely to the minister’s message.

Commissioner for Refugees and Migration, Ms. Nthati Mosebi, highlighted the historical significance of World Refugee Day, noting that it was established in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention. She said the day aims to raise awareness of refugee struggles, combat discrimination, and foster understanding.

“This day is marked to promote solidarity, encourage inclusive communities, and support refugees,” she said. “We are one family—no one should be discriminated against, because people who are here have fled their own countries for difficult and harsh reasons.”

Ms Mosebi emphasized Lesotho’s legacy of peace, recalling that the nation’s founder, Morena Moshoeshoe I, was known as Khaitseli ea Khotso (Brother of Peace). She encouraged refugees to feel at home and assured them that government support remains available.

On behalf of the Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC), Mr. Fetang Selialia said that as we gathered here today to honor World Refugee Day an important moment for reflection, solidarity, and renewed commitment to humanity. It is a day where we reaffirm that every person, regardless of their circumstance, deserves dignity, opportunity, and hope.

He further said, it is a great privilege to stand here in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs and its Refugee Section. Our presence here is not symbolic; it is rooted in a global commitment. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), through its Memorandum of Understanding with UNHCR, has made it clear that the Olympic Movement must be a beacon of hope for displaced people around the world. As LNOC, we proudly uphold this responsibility.

Sport has a unique power to unite, heal, and inspire. For refugees, who have endured unimaginable challenges, sport can restore a sense of belonging and normalcy. It can open doors to education, leadership, empowerment, and even international competition. Through the Refugee Olympic Team, the world has witnessed extraordinary stories of resilience and courage.

Here in Lesotho, we are committed to ensuring that refugees living among us are not left behind. The LNOC continues to work towards creating pathways for participation in sport, especially for young people who dream beyond borders. Our collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs reinforces our shared vision: to ensure that refugees in our country are supported, included, and given opportunities to thrive.

As we celebrate Refugee Day, let us remember that our collective strength as a nation lies in our compassion. Let us continue to build bridges through sport, through community, and through partnership.

To the refugees present today:
You are part of our national family. Your talents, your dreams, and your stories enrich our society. We stand with you, and we will continue working to ensure that you find hope, dignity, and opportunity here in Lesotho.

Addressing the gathering, Ms. Lerato Molise of the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace delivered a message of hope and solidarity.

“I affirm that you are not forgotten. You are not alone. Your life, your dreams, and your dignity matter,” she said. Ms Molise appealed to Basotho communities to replace fear with dialogue, suspicion with understanding, and exclusion with hospitality.

“In the spirit of fraternity, we are called to build a society where borders do not limit love and where justice is demonstrated through acts of compassion,” she said.

A representative of the refugee community concluded the event with a strong appeal for accountability and improved living conditions. He requested that the Commissioner for Refugees initiate an external audit into funds allocated for a donor-supported pilot project, claiming the funds were diverted.

Quoting Ecclesiastes 8:11, he said, “When a crime is not punished quickly, people feel it is safe to do wrong.”

He further highlighted what he described as “unbelievable suffering” at the refugee camp, which he said has gone more than two years without electricity. Refugees, he said, continue to endure harassment and humiliation as they search for places to charge their phones or access basic services.

“Even donors who wanted to assist were turned away, and we do not understand why people say all is well when it is not,” he said.

Concerns were also raised regarding security at the camp, with accusations that the contracted security company has been ineffective. Additionally, he warned of growing mental health issues among refugees—challenges that, according to him, have been reported for over a year without adequate response.

World Refugee Day in Lesotho was marked not only by messages of solidarity but also by urgent appeals for transparency, improved living conditions, and stronger protection mechanisms.

The event underscored the country’s commitment to refugee rights while highlighting the need for renewed efforts to address long-standing challenges within the refugee community.