Lesotho: In a gesture aimed at fostering peace and family welfare, Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane has generously contributed M50,000 to the Pan-African Presbyterian Mens Fellowship (PAPMF) Southern Chapter conference. This donation followed closely on the heels of a M100,000 contribution to Botha-Bothe Camp Primary School, highlighting the Prime Minister's commitment to community support and development.
According to African Press Organization, Prime Minister Matekane, during his keynote address at the conference, shared insights into his longstanding relationship with the mens fellowship, Banna le Bahlankana ba Kereke. This connection was established earlier in the year during a celebration of his birthday at Mantsonyane. He emphasized that his engagement with the fellowship is part of a broader strategy to promote unity among the Basotho people.
The Prime Minister stated, "My physical presence here is to confer that Banna le Bahlankana have brought honour home. Being the host is a task of serving others and making them comfortable in an environment they are not used to," underscoring the importance of hospitality and welcoming visitors as a sign of respect and honor.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Matekane highlighted the significance of hosting the third PAPMF Southern Chapter conference in Lesotho, describing it as an opportunity for blessings to flow into the country. He linked this event to the recent Southern African Development Community (SADC) conference in Durban, where leaders addressed critical topics such as climate-smart agriculture, migration issues, and youth empowerment.
The Prime Minister urged the gathering to consider climate-smart initiatives, emphasizing the need to prioritize crops that can sustain development. His speech resonated with the conference's theme, suggesting a divine mandate for men to care for the world.
In a related address, Mr. Buti Shiwandla, delivering the presidential address of PAPMF, encouraged men to reflect on their roles and responsibilities within society. He posed essential questions about purpose and influence, urging attendees to move beyond mere placeholders in their communities and become active contributors.
Mr. Shiwandla also touched on the urgent matter of gender-based violence (GBV), advocating for churches to be safe havens and for men to act as ambassadors of dignity and protection. He called for a proactive approach to tackling climate change, framing environmental stewardship as a fulfillment of divine will.
Reverend Jane Timothy Makakane, Head of Synod of the LECSA, officiated at the conference, stressing the church's role in addressing societal challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. He called for unity, reconciliation, and compassion, urging attendees to work collaboratively across differences for the greater good.
The Pan-African Presbyterian Mens Fellowship (PAPMF) serves as a platform for men from Presbyterian and Reformed churches across Africa to unite, promote Christian values, and engage in community service. The fellowship's objectives include evangelism, networking, peace promotion, economic empowerment, and family welfare, aligning with the broader vision of fostering a just and harmonious society.