Lesotho News

Maseru, 9 July 2025 - In a significant move to reduce preventable maternal and perinatal deaths, the Ministry of Health (MoH), with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNFPA, UNICEF, and other partners, initiated the development, national validation, and Training of Trainers (ToT) on the new Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) guidelines.

Leribe – To address the severe impact of parasitic worm infections on children's health, nutrition, and education, the Ministry of Health in Lesotho, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), has initiated steps to re-establish its Mass Drug Administration (MDA) program for Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH) through the annual administration of albendazole tablets to target both preschool-aged children (1–5 years) and school-aged children (6–15 years).

Maseru – Lesotho has become the first nation in the WHO African Region to pilot the Afro Influenza (AFFLU) surveillance platform, a cutting-edge initiative aimed at boosting the country's health surveillance system. This platform, developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the African region as an adaptation of the Eastern Mediterranean (EMFLU) Influenza surveillance version, is designed to enhance the collection, management, and analysis of both aggregate and case-based data on influenza and other respiratory viruses (ORVs).

Roma – On Tuesday April 16, 2025, the National University of Lesotho (NUL) successfully hosted a vibrant and insightful commemoration of World Health Day. Under the theme “Global Action for Universal Health- Healthy Beginnings; Hopeful Futures,” the event brought together students, university officials, health professionals, and representatives from other organizations to engage in critical discussions on global health matters.

Leribe, Lesotho – Lesotho successfully completed its Joint Appraisal (JA) of GAVI-supported immunization programs, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to protecting its children through equitable access to life-saving vaccines.

Maseru, In a significant stride towards bolstering its pandemic preparedness and response capabilities, Lesotho convened its inaugural National Steering Committee (NSC) meeting for the Pandemic Fund Southern Africa Multicountry Project. This crucial gathering, held in Maseru, marked a pivotal moment in the nation's efforts to safeguard its population against future health crises.

Maseru – In a country where cancer prevention, diagnosis, and care have historically been limited, the personal journeys of survivors like Maatang Chaka and Joalane Tsupane are beacons of hope and resilience. Tebo, a 49-year-old mother from Maseru District, and Joalane, a 19-year-old leukemia survivor, represent the strength and determination of many cancer patients in Lesotho. Their stories of survival and advocacy highlight the urgent need to bridge the gaps in cancer services in the nation.