The biblical scripture says 'let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to them.'

This became evident in Maseru on Saturday, as children from different orphanage and abandoned homes converged at Maseru club on Saturday to celebrate Prince Lerotholi Mohato Bereng Seeiso's birthday.

The event, which was organised by 'Mabatho Foundation Association (MFA) was meant to bring children together to celebrate with the Prince.

Her Majesty the Queen also joined children in the celebration where she expressed gratitude to MFA for having found it necessary to mark the day.

She added that the act is an indication that Basotho appreciate the royal family and urged MFA members to continue supporting the family.

On the other hand, she said the fact that the event has brought together children from different homes including the disabled is an indication that the association regards children as the most important gifts from God.

In an interview, the founder of the association, Mrs. 'Mabatho Sehlabo-Chang said the day is important on the lives of Basotho as it marks the birth their Prince among hence the need for it to be recognised.

She stated that children are precious in God's eyes and that the celebration is meant to among others unite Prince Lerotholi with other children, noting that the intention is to mark the day annually.

Prince Lerotholi was born on April 18, 2007 at Maseru Private Hospital. He is the third child of their Majesties King Letsie III and Queen 'Masenate Mohato Seeiso. He comes after Princesses Senate and 'Maseeiso.

He is named after the first son of Letsie I, who was Lerotholi. Prince Lerotholi was baptised at St Louis Mission in Matsieng in May 2007 by Archbishop Bernard Mohlalisi of the Roman Catholic Church.

Meanwhile, 'Mabatho Foundation is an association established by Mrs. Sehlabo-Change with the aim to assist orphaned children, the disabled and needy people in various ways.

Present at the birthday party included children from Itjareng Vocational Training Centre, Insured Salvation, SOS and Lesotho Child Counselling Unit to mention a few.

The day was graced by speeches and songs performed by local musicians namely 'Sefako Sa Menoaneng and 'Rabots'o Le Semanyane,'

ENDS
LENA/AM