Lesotho’s King Letsie III received the credentials of the new Dutch Ambassador, Joanne Dornewaard, on April 18th at the Royal Palace. Dornewaard takes over from J.P.M. Peters, whose term has come to an end.
Lesotho and the Netherlands established diplomatic ties shortly after Lesotho gained independence in 1966. Though non-residential, the Netherlands maintains representation through Honorary Consul Rethabile Mafura, appointed in 2023. Mafura succeeds Johnny Van Mastrigt, a longtime resident who managed Maseru’s famed Lancers Inn.
Despite the non-resident status, cooperation between the two countries has been substantial. Dutch aid has seen projects like the Netherlands Hall at the National University of Lesotho, housing for staff and those with disabilities at the Leribe Craft Vocational Centre, the Mafeteng-Tsoloane road, and clinics in Dili-dili and Matebeng. Additionally, Dutch doctors have provided medical services in Lesotho’s district hospitals.