Prince Harry & Prince Bereng Seeiso with Sentebale host hearing impairment children in celebration of 50th Lesotho’s independence
Limpho Sello
SENTEBALE charity organisation is hosting a group of aurally challenged boys and girls as part of Lesotho’s 50th independence anniversary commemorations where they will also be taught life skills on HIV/Aids and sexual reproductive health.
The camp which is being held under the theme: 50th Lesotho’s Independence Celebration started on Monday and ends on Saturday.
Mamohato Network and Camps Director at Sentebale Mr Sekoati Tsepe yesterday said they had decided to host aurally impaired children from Kananelo Centre for the deaf and St. Paul because they were often neglected.
“We thought to remember them and include them in our activities because as much as they are disabled they are most affected by HIV and AIDS as well as SRH hence the need for them to with us as we celebrate independence,” Mr Tsepe said.
“Some of these children are affected and infected by HIV. Some have lost parents due to HIV and they are only dealt with as orphans without addressing the real issues. They need to be taught about the virus and how to conduct themselves after such situations (of losing parents to Aids).
“This is something that has always been close to our hearts so when we found space we then invited them to take part in our camping activities,” Mr Tsepe said.
He said in the past information was only shared with older people living with the children but at such camps they worked with children ranging from 9 to 18 years old as they also had a right to know.
“Children are very much affected and have a right to know about HIV and SRH. It is wise to equip them at this stage so that they can be able to make informed decisions. We are here as Mamohato Networks and Camps to help inform them about issues that affect them,” Mr Tsepe said.
He said they used drama to educate the children and those with hearing impairment had interpreters to assist them understand the performances.
“We chose drama because children are playful and when you use entertainment to educate them they never forget and they enjoy it.
“We also called in stakeholders to give out information to the children as well as brief them on the history of Lesotho from independence to the present day as we celebrating the 50th anniversary,” Ms Tsepe said.
