Thousands of Basotho including adults and children from various parts of the country gathered in large numbers at the Setsoto Stadium to celebrate 40thindependence anniversary of Lesotho.

Each district was represented and people from the districts were dressed up in their different colours and mostly in blankets, and songs and traditional dances were the mode of the day.

Those interviewed said they are happy to have participated in the national celebration and recommended that the next Independence Day be celebrated in the districts like it is already happening with other national celebrations such as King's birthday.

They said it is from the national celebrations that the public can be informed about the government's plans of developing the country as well as achievements.

The Government Secretary Mr. Tlohang Sekhamane expressed his appreciation over a good turn up of Basotho and said that indicated a true happiness and love for their country and encouraged them to continue in the same manner even in other celebrations to come.

The day was celebrated with traditional songs and dances. It was graced by the presence of their Majesties, the Prime Minister, Cabinet ministers, Heads of the Diplomatic Missions, Senior Government Officials, the publicand delegates from other countries within the Southern African Development
Community region.

Lesotho obtained its independence from the British protectorate on October 04 in 1966 and it marked its 40th anniversary by hoisting of the new national flag.

SOURCE: LENA