Lesotho's Journey of Transformation Through Faith Partnerships for Environmental Stewardship and Climate Action
By: Lerato Brown, Communications and Marketing Manager, Lesotho
In the heart of the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, where the mountains silently bear witness to a changing climate, a powerful narrative of collective transformation is unfolding. Led by World Vision International Lesotho, the unveiling of the Faith Partnerships for Environmental Stewardship and Climate Action Project marks a significant stride in the fight against climate change.
"As we launch this project, our commitment is to enhance the well-being of 580,000 children and 250,000 households by 2025, focusing on climate action, health, and faith-based development," emphasizes James Chifwelu, the visionary National Director of World Vision International Lesotho.
Reverend Monaheng Sekese, representing the Christian Council of Lesotho, echoes this commitment, stating, "This partnership with World Vision is a testament to our joint dedication to promoting environmental care within faith communities, aligning with our Christian values.”
This initiative recognizes the divine mandate Christians and Faith Leaders have to care for the environment. It aspires to catalyze positive culture changes by fostering mindsets, behaviours, and practices that enable communities to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. The unity in purpose is tangible as faith leaders and humanitarian advocates come together, aligning with the Christian values that define Lesotho's identity.
Children, the future stewards of the Earth, play a central role in this transformative journey. World Vision International Lesotho Young Change Makers, Setente Nthoko (19) and Litebeho Lebese (21), took the stage to emphasize the project's critical aspect of enhancing the participation of boys and girls in climate change advocacy. Setente declared, "We're not just here; we are leading interventions for climate action because we care about our future." Litebeho added, “We have seen how climate change affects children in Lesotho, from food scarcity to increased natural disasters. We are grateful for an opportunity to raise our voices as children on how climate change is detrimental to our well-being and be part of the solutions to climate action.”
Lesotho's vulnerability to climate change demands urgent action. James Chifwelu declares, "Through collaboration, we aim to reach at least 15,000 Basotho with adaptation and mitigation measures in Leribe and Mokhotlong districts." As the project unfolds, Lesotho's vulnerability becomes a canvas for transformation. Vulnerable landscapes, once battered by droughts, now stand as a testament of hope, resilience, and proactive change.
Mr. Ramatsoku Rampai, representing ReNoka, emphasizes the profound impact of faith-based approaches to climate action. "Through trust-building and justice promotion, faith communities become the torchbearers for effective environmental stewardship. As ReNOKA, an inclusive movement for protecting Lesotho's natural resources, we are on board to partner with World Vision towards ensuring environmental stewardship and Climate Action in Lesotho."
The project not only capacitates faith and traditional leaders but also involves the youth in climate education, making stakeholders integral to success. James Chifwelu added"Communities become a dynamic ecosystem of shared learning and growth."
The Faith Partnerships for Environmental Stewardship & Climate Action Project stands as a inspiration of hope for a Lesotho taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. As the Minister of Tourism, Environment and Culture aptly emphasizes, "I am proud to announce the Government's commitment to review the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Bill of 2020 towards enactment into law. This monumental action underscores the commitment of the Government of Lesotho towards ensuring the safety and well-being of our people in the face of climate change." The commitment to environmental stewardship, legislative advancements, and collective efforts set the stage for a resilient and thriving future in the face of climate change.
As the symphony of resilience unfolds, Lesotho stands at the brink of a new era—a harmonious tune of collective voices shaping a sustainable and green future for the Kingdom in the Sky. The Faith Partnerships for Environmental Stewardship and Climate Action Project is more than a project; it is a testament to the transformative power of faith, collaboration, and unwavering dedication in the face of climate challenges.