Maseru, October 02 (LENA)-- King Letsie III and Prime Minister Mr. Pakalitha Mosisili have planted trees at Moshoeshoe I Statue as part of the 40th Independence celebration.

At the occasion two wild olive (Mohloare) trees were planted as the implication of the prevailing peace in the country.

To witness this occasion, Queen ''Masenate Mohato Bereng Seeiso, 'Mrs 'Mathato Mosisili, speaker of the national assembly Ms Nthloi Motsamai, chief Justice Mahapela Lehohla, deputy Prime Minister Lesao Lehohla, cabinet ministers, heads of diplomatic corps, high ranking government officials were
present.

In an interview, the Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Forestry and Land Reclamation Mr. Nchemo Maile said his ministry has chosen wild olive tree because it is a natural tree that symbolizes peace and as a result it is also used in churches.

He mentioned that the tree is fast growing, decorative and very resistant to cold and drought adding that some traditional remedies are prepared from the plant and are believed to cure different kinds of diseases.

This year's celebration will last for three days and activities of the celebration among others include horse racing, launch of the Vision 2020 Document and of the New National Flag.

SOURCE: LENA