Nthabiseng Libate
THE Indian Association of Lesotho (IAL) recently commemorated India’s 75th Independence Day with various activities including free medical services for the public in Maseru.
India attained its independence from Britain on 15 August 1947.
Speaking during the commemorations in Maseru, IAL president, Abraham Korah, commended all the countries that contributed to India’s development.
“We remember all the freedom fighters who put their lives at stake for the independence of our country and lived up to the spirit of unity,” Mr Korah said.
“We also thank all those who laid down their lives for India.
“Today is the most opportune day to redeem our pledge for unity and integrity of the nation. We are proud and swear to keep ourselves sincere and patriotic to save our motherland from any kind of attack. We also pledge to stand united against corruption and terrorism.
“The ability to create jobs and grow the economy were some of the qualities needed for a country to be granted independence from colonial rule,” he said.
“On this day, we remember all our freedom fighters who sacrificed everything for our country….,” he added
IAL is a registered non-profit, non-partisan and non-sectarian organisation which was established in 1998 to primarily provide a cultural and educational platform for Indians in Lesotho.
The association has been working “selflessly to create, foster and promote co-operation, collaboration and social and cultural integration between the peoples of the kingdom of Lesotho and the Republic of India”.
On his part, Police and Public Safety minister, Lepota Sekola, said the occasion symbolised the strength of the relationship between India and Lesotho in the areas of business and education.
“Indians are influential when it comes to business. We have a good partnership with Indians because they built some of the schools and businesses we have in this country,” Mr Sekola said.
He urged Basotho to consult Indians for business ideas and support.