Ntsebeng Motsoeli
HIS Majesty King Letsie III donated M30 000 to the ‘Mantšase Children’s Home on Tuesday this week.
The money was the King’s 51st birthday present he had just received from the First National Bank (FNB) Lesotho during a presentation ceremony at the Royal Palace.
His Majesty, who turned 51 years of age on 17 July, said he was hopeful the money would be used to take care of the children’s needs.
“I hope that this gift will be put to good use. In fact, I know that the money will be put to good use,” the King said.
His Majesty applauded the home’s management and workers for looking after and taking care of orphaned and vulnerable children.
“’Mantšase has contributed a great deal in the support of vulnerable children. I have been in and out of the home since my young age and I am familiar with the great work they are doing of taking care of the children,” he said.
His Majesty thanked the FNB-Lesotho Chief Executive Officer, Emil Heppell, and the bank’s staff, for the present.
“I thank you with humility; I thank your team at FNB because it is through their hard work that you are able to do what you have done for these vulnerable children,” the King said.
His Majesty further applauded the financial institution for doing “a commendable job” in serving its clients.
On a lighter note, King Letsie III requested the bank to increase its contribution by 10 percent next year.
Speaking at the same ceremony, Mr Heppell wished the King a happy birthday and a successful year.
“We thank God for you and the way you are leading this country,” Mr Heppell said.
The ‘Mantšase Children’s Home General Manager, Fifi Mphako, said the money would be used to buy basic necessities for the home and pay school-fees for the 50 children of the children.
“We have children who need new school uniform and those whose fees have not been paid in full. We also have a shortage of blankets and we are glad that this money will help us take care or such needs,” Ms Mphako said.
She further said the orphanage has enjoyed good relations with the Royal Family over the years, with Queen ‘Masenate Bereng Seeiso being the home’s patron.
“Our biggest supporter is Sentebale, a charity organisation founded by the King’s brother, Prince Seeiso Bereng Seeiso and Prince Harry of Wales.”
