…as insurer hands over two waste compactor trucks
Leemisa Thuseho
ALLIANCE Insurance has handed over two waste compactor trucks to the Maseru City Council (MCC) to bolster the municipality’s waste management efforts and contribute to keeping the city clean.
The trucks, valued at M5 million, were received by: Prime Minister, Sam Matekane; Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police, Lebona Lephema; and Maseru Mayor, Motlalepula Sepipi, at a ceremony held on Friday at Thibella Bus Stop in Maseru.
Speaking at the event, Alliance’s Head of Group Marketing and Corporate Communications, ’Makeabetsoe Mabaleha, said the trucks were purchased through funds generated from their U Mang? Funeral Policy.
She explained that a portion of every premium collected under the policy is allocated to community development initiatives.
“In our U Mang? Funeral Policy, a certain portion of the money paid is reserved for community development activities,” Ms Mabaleha said.
“So, after we realised that our Prime Minister is championing the cause of clean cities, we decided to play our part. These trucks will help MCC collect waste and access various parts of the city. We only plead that they be well taken care of.”
Last year, MCC and the Alliance Group took a significant step toward improving the cleanliness of Maseru’s streets by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The partnership aims to address the city’s growing waste management challenges.
Mr Sepipi said cleanliness remains a top priority for the council.
“We have several ongoing cleaning initiatives to keep Maseru clean, and we believe these trucks will make a huge contribution,” Mr Sepipi said.
“They are the cherry on top of our efforts.”
Mr Matekane also addressed the gathering, emphasising that his government is committed to improving cleanliness in towns across Lesotho and called on every citizen to get involved.
“I call on everyone to play their part in keeping the country clean,” Mr Matekane said.
“Cleanliness not only promotes a healthier life but also attracts tourists. Waste management initiatives also help create jobs. I thank Alliance and other companies for their contributions.”
He said the global concern over the impact of poor waste management on climate change applies to Lesotho as well.
“Cleanliness is not just about collecting garbage. It also includes planting trees, growing flowers, and establishing beautiful parks. We must protect and maintain these spaces,” the premier added.
He also provided an update on the government’s plans to relocate and rehabilitate the Ha Tšosane dumpsite, which has long posed health risks to nearby residents. He said M20 million has been set aside for the project, and work is expected to begin soon.
Mr Lephema said the new trucks will improve the speed and efficiency of waste collection across Maseru.