King Letsie III says Lesotho's existence has never depended on the possession of valuable material resources or large expanses of flat and fertile land but instead, Lesotho has had to depend on its people and their leaders to build and defend the nation.

Speaking at the official launch of the Leadership Region Network (LeaRN) hub in Lesotho at the National Convention Centre in Maseru on Thursday 21 November,2002, the King said he therefore considered it appropriate that the activities of this launch day began with the leadership associates paying tribute to Moshoeshoe I, the founder and leader of the nation. King Letsie III said it is now universally accepted that his wisdom and unparalleled powers of communication and persuasion provided his people with leadership that left them with a clear and deep sense of belief in themselves as a nation.

The King said for the nation to develop and prosper, leadership must occur at all levels being individually, at family, village, community and at national levels. "In this regard, the resources provided to LeaRN by the Kellogg Foundation are valuable in enabling our people to learn and practice the competences and skills required for leadership in the modern world," he added. King Letsie said his acceptance to become the patron of LeaRN should be seen as reflecting its national importance, adding that he is aware of the linkages between LeaRN-Lesotho and the ongoing development of the National Vision for Lesotho, expressing hope that this relationship will flourish and grow
stronger for the benefit of the country and its people.

King Letsie III also thanked the Kellogg Foundation for various forms of support it has extended and continues to extend to Lesotho. "We are cognizant of the fact that LeaRN operates as one of the three initiatives, each of which is focused on specific aspects of the development of our rural communities," he stated. He acknowledged various interventions by the Foundation in education, agriculture, nutrition and health, and expressed gratitude for all the forms of support and assistance.

At the same occasion, the Chairman of LeaRN-Lesotho and Vice Chancellor of the National University of Lesotho, Dr. Tefetso Mothibe said the launching of LeaRN is a successful partnership between the Christian Council of Lesotho (CCL) and the Institute of Extra Mural Studies (IEMS). He said it is a partnership that is characterised by mutual respect and concerns, adding that the two institutions care deeply about the plight of the people ravaged by poverty and HIV\AIDS.

Dr. Mothibe said they are thus committed to reducing economic, spiritual and social poverty in Lesotho through providing more and better leaders. "It is a partnership between the gown and the cloth and nothing can beat it". He thanked the LeaRN regional office for the support they have given to Lesotho and for the freedom the national office has had to develop  in ways best suited for the needs of the people of Lesotho.

On behalf of the associates, Mr. Kali Thaanyane said what the Kellogg Foundation has revived is transformational leadership, and added that they have contributed a great deal to the success of the past general elections, and the many other projects of the benefit to the Lesotho government and to the people of Lesotho. He said Lesotho needs leadership that stand for truth and affirmation of the wholesome, a leadership that demonstrates competence, professionalism and integrity.

Mr. Thaanyane said the country needs a leadership that does not shy away from the difficult nor unpopular decisions or measures. LeaRN Lesotho has been operating in the country since 2000. Present at the occasion were among others, the Prime Minister, Mr. Pakalitha Mosisili, cabinet ministers, senior government officials,
associates of LeaRN Lesotho, representatives of Kellogg Foundation and of LeaRN regional office.

21 November,2002