Maseru- As Lesotho celebrates its 200th anniversary, the Alliance Françoise in Maseru hosted an event that showcased the deep and intertwined histories of Lesotho and France. At the heart of the celebration was the premiere of a short historical film, ‘The Kingdom in The Sky: Moshoeshoe I’s Strategy & Legacy’, which commemorates the pivotal alliance between King Moshoeshoe I and French missionaries. This relationship laid the foundation for a partnership that has lasted for two centuries, fostering mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations.
The film, created in collaboration with the Morija Museum and Archives, as well as a distinguished research committee, delves into the political importance of King Moshoeshoe I’s alliance with French missionaries. This strategic partnership helped to solidify his leadership and provided vital support to Lesotho during a period of uncertainty and external threats. The film not only highlights this important chapter in Lesotho’s history but also explores the lasting impact of this friendship between the two countries.
David Martinon, the French Ambassador to Lesotho, South Africa, and Malawi, emphasized the significance of this moment during the screening.
“We are honoured to present this film to the people of Lesotho during such a meaningful phase of celebration. It is not only a tribute to our shared past but also a symbol of the future collaboration and growth between our nations,” Martinon stated, reaffirming France’s commitment to strengthening ties with Lesotho.
The documentary was inspired by His Majesty King Letsie III’s vision to preserve and share the connected histories of Lesotho and France. With support from the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, the French Embassy, and the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS), this project was brought to life as a gift to the people of Lesotho on this historic occasion.
The celebration was also done by unveiling of a special blanket, named ‘Lithabeng Harmonie’. This blanket was designed to symbolize the rich cultural exchange between Lesotho and France, drawing inspiration from iconic French landmarks such as Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower, alongside traditional Basotho elements like litema (decorative mural art), mokorotlo (Basotho hat) anddiamonds. This creative blend of French and Basotho imagery reflects the shared history and ongoing friendship between the two nations.
The design of ‘Lithabeng Harmonie’ was selected through a public vote, where 30 designs competed for the final honour. Created by Mphore Mapena, a design and art lecturer at Limkokwing University in Lesotho, the blanket serves as a tangible representation of the cultural fusion between the two countries.
“It tells a story of our heritage and symbolizes our long-standing relationship with France,” said Mamokuena Makhema, curator of the Morija Museum and Archives.
The 1,600 limited-edition blankets will be exhibited before being made available to the public on Monday. Makhema further expressed her pride in collaborating with France on such a significant project.
“Working with France on this project has been a tremendous experience. The relationship between Lesotho and France began when the missionaries first arrived here, and this partnership has continued to grow over the years.”
As part of the ongoing collaboration, the Morija Museum is working on the construction of a new archive centre, with support from the African Union by German government. This centre will serve as a hub for the preservation of Lesotho’s history and heritage.
“Our doors are open to anyone interested in learning about the rich heritage of Lesotho,” Makhema added, highlighting the importance of keeping Lesotho’s history alive for future generations.
The archives will continue to house records of the country’s past, preserving the writings and recordings made by missionaries and early historians. Makhema emphasized that it is the responsibility of today’s generation to protect and pass on this legacy.
As Lesotho celebrates its 200th anniversary, the bicentennial events serve as a reminder of the enduring bond between Lesotho and France. What began as a strategic alliance between King Moshoeshoe I and French missionaries has blossomed into a partnership based on mutual respect and shared values. Through cultural projects like the historical film and the ‘Lithabeng Harmonie’ blanket, the two nations continue to honourtheir shared history while looking forward to a future of continued cooperation and growth.
As the premiere concluded, the words of Ambassador Martinon resonated with the audience: “This celebration is not only about looking back at our shared history but also about envisioning the future of our partnership. May the next 200 years be just as prosperous and meaningful for both our nations,”
