Quthing, June 08 — A wave of hope and resilience swept through Lefikeng village today as the Ministry of Social Development officially launched the Ntlafatsa Bana (Improvement of Children) Project, bringing renewable energy solutions directly into the hands of families.

The initiative, part of the Child Grants Programme (CGP), has been designed to strengthen child welfare while promoting sustainable energy independence across Lesotho. Local leaders and residents emphasized the transformative impact of the project. Chief Mahlomola Letsie of Lefikeng applauded the initiative, noting that even households not directly receiving packages will benefit by charging phones and accessing light from neighbors who revived the packages.

Mr. Lephethesang Matooane, a household head beneficiary over 60 years old, highlighted how safe electricity contributes to a healthier environment, especially as Lesotho celebrates its 60th independence anniversary, the county aligns with international conventions on promoting healthy environment and clean energy.

Ms. Fungeloa Lone expressed gratitude, saying the rentable energy packages will ease the burden of buying candles and paraffin, allowing children to study at night with reliable light. Mrs. Marethabile Pakose shared that her solar package will not only light her home but also help generate income through cellphone charging and sewing projects. More than 100 beneficiaries from various villages across Tosing and Telle community councils received packages of their choice, ranging from solar home systems to clean-energy stoves.

The stoves that use small amounts of firewood, are expected to reduce cases in which household members travel distance to collect firewood for fuel purpose, control population land degradation. The project also integrates two broader components that include child well-Being to enhance child development through access to birth registration, nutrition, and clean water.

The last component of social assistance efficiency streamline delivery of social assistance via digital applications linked to the National Information System. While today’s launch centered on Lefikeng, the project has also been implemented in Mohale’s Hoek, Qacha’s Nek, Leribe, and Thaba-Tseka, marking a nationwide step toward sustainable child welfare support.