The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Lesole Mokoma has appealed to the public to eradicate stigmatisation of leprosy patients, so that the disease could be eliminated.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Health and Social Welfare at the Leprosy Day Celebration held at Ha Mohatlane ACL Primary School in Berea on Thursday, Mr. Mokoma said leprosy was incurable in the past, and its patients were regarded as outcasts.

He added that leprosy patients were discarded and not allowed to live with other people. He said in recent years, leprosy is regarded as a disease, like any other.

Mr. Mokoma appealed to the public to go to health centre for medical treatment whenever they detect the disease's symptoms, and not to delay, as it is detrimental to one's health, since some parts of the body are cut off.

At the same occasion, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Representative in Lesotho, Dr. Angela Benson said leprosy is caused by a germ called micro-bacterium, and infects all people, young and old.

She said leprosy does not kill, but is capable of causing permanent disability, however noting that health centres are capable of stopping the disease.

Dr Benson said in many countries of the world, numerous programmes have been introduced that aim to combat the disease. She noted that such programmes ensure that leprosy patients stay with their families and lead normal lives.

She therefore urged the country's health staff to ensure that there is adequate information about the disease, noting that education about the disease could lead to reduction in the infection.

In conclusion, WHO Representative pledged her organisation’s continued support to the country through training of health personnel about the disease so to ensure its effective elimination.

Member of Parliament for Malimong Constituency No.22, Mr. Lebohang Moeketsi appealed to health personnel to distribute pamphlets that have information on leprosy so that the public could know about it.

The purpose of the celebration, whose theme was 'Taking Stock' was to create public awareness on leprosy.

Among the present at the occasion were the Chief of Ha 'Mamathe, Chieftainess 'Masenate Khabasheane Masupha, the Berea District Administrator, Mrs. Butleng Sekake-Ntoampe, heads of government departments, school children and the general public.

Source: LENA 31/01/2008