Vodacom Lesotho and partners launch health and GBV awareness programme for shepherds in Mokhotlong
Date: 2026-03-03
By: Kanto Kai Okanta
Vodacom Lesotho, in partnership with UNFPA Lesotho,
the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Nedbank Lesotho, Letšeng
Diamonds and the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA), has launched a
comprehensive initiative in Mokhotlong aimed at empowering shepherds with
knowledge on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and Gender-Based
Violence (GBV).
The programme was officially launched at the Matsoaing
School of Shepherds and is designed to provide health education, raise
awareness on GBV, and offer practical support, including the distribution of
hygiene packs. The initiative targets a group often underserved by mainstream
health and social services, with the goal of promoting dignity, inclusion and
access to essential information.
Beyond the shepherd community, the
programme also extends support to young people in the district. Activities
include dialogue sessions addressing critical health issues affecting youth, as
well as the handover of computers to the Mokhotlong and Mapholaneng Adolescent
Health Corners. Plans are underway to establish additional digital centres to
expand access to health information and digital skills training.
The
initiative underscores a collaborative approach that brings together public
institutions, private sector partners and development organizations to address
social challenges through education, technology and community engagement.
