The central bank of Lesotho yesterday held a very special event at Lehakoe Recreation and Cultural Centre’  launching Lesotho’s new M200 banknote to commemorate the 60th birthday celebration of His Majesty King Letsie III.

The governor of Central bank of Lesotho, Dr. Emmanuel Maluke Letete indicated that while many of us are familiar with commemorative items such as coins, stamps and other memorabilia, says it has become a tradition among central banks to also issue commemorative banknotes on a significant date to honour a place, an event, a person or an object.

However, the Governor also explained that 5, 000,000 pieces of commemorative banknotes have been printed to mark the 60th birthday of His Majesty King Letsie III. Unlike in the past, these commemorative notes are intended for general circulation and to facilitate the celebration of all Basotho with the King.

On the other hand, deputy Prime Minister, honourable Nthomeng Majara, Speaking on the platform of Prime Minister, said that commemorative banknote, which is the first to be produced in the history of Lesotho, also marks an important milestone for the Central Bank of Lesotho towards the evolution of Lesotho’s currency.

He continued by saying it represents the celebration of a “new dawn”, a beginning of a new day which is a sign of living hope and a new era as Basotho  celebrates the 60th birthday of His Majesty King Letsie III.