By Neo Kolane
Lesotho joins the rest of the world as the United Nations celebrates International Women’s Day under the theme ‘Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow’ in honour of women who are taking charge to tackle climate change.
Speaking at the commemoration in Maseru on Tuesday, UN resident coordinator Amanda Khozi Mukwashi said the theme is a clarion call for climate action for women and by women.
Mukwashi explained that the current climate crisis has an impact on women, and Basotho have already experienced the detrimental effects of heavy rains and droughts, which have both had an impact on agriculture and therefore the food security of Lesotho.
“It is mostly women, particularly in rural areas who feel the brunt as they are dependent on natural resources to sustain their families.
“I therefore want to applaud the contribution of women and girls around the world and in Lesotho who are taking charge on climate change adaptation, mitigation and response as well as to encourage more women to join the movement.”