Moorosi Tsiane
THE team that has been tasked with preparing for the Africa Union Sports Council (AUSC) Maseru Region 5 Youth 2020 Games must do the country proud by ensuring that local athletes win their competitions next year.
This was said by Communications Science and Technology minister Thesele ‘Maseribane during the recent glittering official launch of the games at the ‘Manthabiseng Convention Centre in Maseru.
The event also served as the launch of the theme, logo, mascot and theme song.
‘Maseribane stood in for Prime Minister Thomas Thabane who was meant to be the guest of honour at the event.
About 3000 athletes from 10 countries namely Angola, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, eSwatini, Mozambique, South Africa, Botswana and Lesotho will compete in the competitions from 1 to 13 December 2020 in Maseru.
The countries will compete in athletics, boxing, basketball, swimming, gymnastics, volleyball, netball, football, tennis and judo.
‘Maseribane told the local athletes who will represent the country that they should use the home advantage and win as many medals as possible.
“As we gather here today, we are marking another important milestone as we celebrate the official launch of the AUSC Region 5 Maseru 2020 Games,” ‘Maseribane said.
“To those charged with preparing the team for the games; we do not expect to be let down. Use your home advantage. We expect you to win as many medals as possible because you will be playing at home.”
He said the games were also very important for the government as it will use them to unearth local talent.
“The government is proud to be hosting the games. As we launch these games, I wish to impress upon every one of us to support this noble initiative for it to succeed.
“The games are important for the government as they are going to serve as a platform to unlock our youths’ talent so that they can compete favourably in the international arena. Secondly, the games are going to create jobs.
“I thank the AUSC leadership for its support and guidance to our organising committee. We know that it has been difficult from the beginning and it also won’t be easy going forward, however, your commitment and dedication has made it possible and we are thankful for that,” he said.
For her part, Gender and Youth, Sports and Recreation minister Mahali Phamotse said the theme, logo, mascot and theme song were vital requirements.
“The theme is “Unite, Rise and Build” and it has been carefully chosen to keep with the AUSC aspirations,” Phamotse said.
Phamotse said the games would also give Basotho an opportunity to build bridges.
“Sport can also bring us together as a nation. The games will present us with an opportunity to find one another.”
Phamotse also pleaded with parents to let their children participate in the games as they come with various opportunities.
“I also plead with parents to let their children come and join us in enjoying this unique opportunity afforded to our country,” Phamotse.