On Thursday, October 3rd, the Alliance Française de Maseru, in partnership with the French Embassy of South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi, and the Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC), alongside the U.S. Embassy in Maseru, held a celebration honoring the remarkable achievements of Lesotho’s Olympians and Paralympians who participated in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The day began with a fun run/walk organized by the Alliance Française, engaging over 30 sports federations from Lesotho in a spirited morning event through the picturesque neighborhood of Maseru. This initiative not only celebrated athletic accomplishments but also fostered community spirit and camaraderie among participants.
French Ambassador David Martinon delivered heartfelt remarks, expressing his admiration for the athletes. He recognized individuals such as Makatisi Mokulubete, Litšitso Khotlele, Ramokane, and Komane Ralejoe, stating, “Whether you know it or not, you have become a beacon of hope for the Lesotho people, showing what dedication, hard work, and perseverance can achieve.” He encouraged the athletes to continue striving for excellence, urging them to qualify for future Olympic events.
Following Ambassador Martinon, Thomas Hines from the U.S. Embassy addressed the attendees, emphasizing the significance of their achievements. He commended the athletes for their hard work and perseverance, acknowledging their contribution to making Lesotho proud. Hines shared his appreciation for the opportunity to jog through the beautiful streets of Maseru and thanked the Alliance Française for organizing the event.
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of modernized traditional Sotho blankets to the athletes. Designed by Mphore Mapena, these exclusive blankets were launched for the bicentennial celebration and feature the Sotho Coat of Arms alongside the Eiffel Tower, symbolizing the enduring relationship between France and Lesotho.
In a post-event interview, para-athlete Ramokane expressed gratitude for the recognition and the experiences gained during their time in Paris. He highlighted the challenges faced by para-athletes, particularly the lack of financial support and training opportunities compared to their Olympic counterparts. Nonetheless, he proudly noted that one of his teammates achieved a personal best in shot put, showcasing their potential despite obstacles.
With 15,000 athletes, 54 sports, 205 delegations, and over 16 million visitors in Paris, the 2024 Olympics made a significant global impact, garnering more than 4 billion viewers worldwide. The achievements of Lesotho’s athletes, both Olympians and Paralympians, have placed our nation on the world map, serving as an inspiration to many.
