MASERU – The Maseru Youth Games officially opened on Friday, October 3, 2025, with a colourful ceremony attended by young athletes from across Lesotho. The event was officiated by the Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, Hon. Motlatsi Maqelepo, and celebrated sportsmanship, unity, and national pride.
A key moment of the ceremony was the arrival of the Queen’s Baton, part of the international Queen’s Baton Relay that precedes the Commonwealth Games. The Baton, carrying a message from His Majesty King Charles III, continues its journey through Commonwealth member countries ahead of the 2026 Games in Glasgow.
Minister Maqelepo received the Baton from Lesotho’s Commonwealth gold medalist, Mr. Thabiso Moqhali, and then passed it to a group of young athletes, symbolising the future of Lesotho’s sporting talent. 
Speaking at the event, the Minister called on youth to use sports as a tool for empowerment, peacebuilding, and cultural exchange. He praised the athletes for their dedication and urged them to pursue excellence both on and off the field.
