MASERU
Lesotho emerged as one of the standout nations at the 45th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit of Heads of State and Government held on Sunday in Antananarivo, Madagascar, after scooping top honours in both the SADC Media Awards and the SADC Secondary and Tertiary Essay Competitions.
Television journalist Thabo “Mthibo” Rakhomo flew the national flag high by claiming 1st place in the Television Category of the prestigious SADC Media Awards. The annual awards recognize excellence in print, radio, television and photojournalism across the region, offering cash prizes to winners and runners-up who demonstrate outstanding creativity and commitment to telling Africa’s stories.
Rakhomo’s triumph follows in the footsteps of fellow countryman Lesooana Moeti, who has won the same category on multiple occasions, further cementing Lesotho’s reputation as a breeding ground for world-class journalism talent.
In the academic arena, Lesotho also made history through Ntsoaki Kholumo, who clinched 1st Prize in the Tertiary Institutions Essay Competition. Her essay, which explored the role of SADC’s founding fathers in fostering peace, security, and regional cooperation, was praised for its depth, originality, and clarity of thought.
Adding to the nation’s success, Boitumelo Khotlele secured 3rd Prize in the same essay category, ensuring Lesotho was represented on the winners’ podium twice. The SADC Essay Competitions are designed to engage young people at secondary and tertiary level on the organization’s vision, mission, and milestones, while inspiring them to contribute ideas towards regional integration and sustainable development.
The string of victories marks a proud moment for Lesotho, with both media and academic representatives standing tall among their regional peers. Officials and fellow citizens have hailed the winners as “trailblazers” who continue to position Lesotho as a force to be reckoned with in both journalism and intellectual discourse.
