Maseru ___ The Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture Mr. Motlatsi Maqelepo has called on all stakeholders in the sports fraternity to collaborate in order to ensure the success of sports in the country.

Speaking during the Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC) 23rd (XXIII) Annual General Meeting held in Maseru on Sunday, he stated that it is through concerted efforts that value and impact can be made. He emphasised that working together will help improve programmes intended for the development of sports. 

He indicated that an all-inclusive transformational agenda to succeed in 2028 is needed, adding that it should yield a national common programme. He said there must be cohesion towards talent identification and major games if sports are to succeed in the country.

The Minister pointed out that Lesotho, as a country, has learned where it has competitive advantage. He said to have qualified for the Olympic Games and sent three participants, the country has tried. He however said that is not enough adding that the country can do better. 

Speaking at the same event President of the LNOC Mr. Tlali Rampooana stated that Team Lesotho would not have made it without support. He stated that there were several countries which did not make it to the Olympics qualifiers. 

He acknowledged the national Olympic committee and partners for their work towards ensuring that Lesotho is represented in the games. He pointed out that there were challenges especially those posed by the ailing economy. He said it is difficult to secure funding. 

Mr. Rampooana appealed to Basotho to support Team Lesotho and work together for the success of sports. He emphasised a need to focus and follow pillars of administration. He added that strategic plans should be owned and implemented. 

Also speaking at the same event, Director Sports Mr. Khotso Patsa stated that stakeholders in sports should ensure unity. He added that organisations should ensure proper management of sports in the country. He said they should build their case so that everyone will find it necessary to sponsor sports. 

Lesotho participated in the Olympics for the first time in 1972. The 2024 games are scheduled for July 26 to August 11 and Lesotho will take part in athletics and taekwondo.