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21 October 2026 by Limpho Sello

Puleng Mabote, a 29-year-old visually impaired woman from Ha Abia in Maseru, says a two-day training organised by the Lesotho National League of the Visually Impaired Persons (LNLVIP) has helped her manage her personal finances and health better.

Mabote says the training provided an opportunity to learn more about women’s health, challenge misconceptions and acquire practical skills she could apply in her everyday life.

She said one of her key takeaways from the training was learning to pay attention to changes in her body and seek medical attention when necessary.

She recalled that before the workshop, she sometimes became concerned when she noticed vaginal discharge, believing it meant she was sick.

However, the discussions helped her understand that vaginal discharge can be a normal part of the body’s reproductive processes and that its characteristics can help distinguish normal discharge from a possible infection.

She learned that unusual odour and itching may indicate an infection and that understanding these differences can help women make informed decisions about seeking care.

“I also learned a lot about menopause and the signs to look out for when that stage of life approaches,” Mabote said.

“Honestly, my eyes have been opened because we were taught the importance of understanding ourselves and our bodies so that we can take better care of ourselves.”

Beyond health, Mabote said the workshop challenged participants to accept themselves and avoid self-stigmatisation because of their visual impairments.

She explained that participants were encouraged to give themselves time to process their experiences and move beyond their challenges instead of assuming that their disabilities would prevent them from enjoying fulfilling romantic relationships.

Financial literacy was another important lesson. Mabote said she previously spent all her money whenever she received it. She has since learned the importance of saving for emergencies and future needs, prioritising necessities over wants and avoiding unnecessary debt.

The workshop also introduced participants to the possibility of generating income through small businesses, which Mabote said could help improve financial independence and address poverty among people with disabilities.

For LNLVIP Chief Executive Keketso Mangope, the annual women’s workshops provide an opportunity to equip members with practical knowledge and skills that they can take back to their communities.

Mangope said the organisation holds the workshops annually for women members from all 10 districts of Lesotho. The sessions cover different subjects depending on the needs of participants.

This year’s workshop focused on financial literacy, income generation, health and general wellbeing. It was held at the Mohloli oa Bophelo Training and Rehabilitation Centre at Ha Tšosane in Maseru on 8-9 August 2026.

Mangope explained that the sessions typically begin with financial management before moving on to other subjects according to the needs and questions of the women attending.

The workshops bring together mothers, young women from communities, allowing participants to learn progressively, from basic concepts to more advanced information.

He said facilitators also consider participants’ right to access information and ensure that discussions respond to the issues affecting people in their communities.

Beyond financial and health education, the organisation addresses human rights and the challenges people encounter when seeking services for themselves and their children.

Mangope said some community members do not know which authorities or institutions to approach when they experience difficulties, including gender-based violence.

The workshops therefore help participants understand appropriate reporting channels and where to seek assistance.

“Sometimes people don’t know who to call, or who they should talk to when they face these problems,” he explained.

Through these sessions, the organisation seeks to empower mothers and young women with visual impairment, with information they can use to address challenges.

Mangope said in such platforms participants are encouraged to take what they learn home and apply it when dealing with police stations, traditional leaders and local authorities.

He said the ultimate goal is to strengthen their members by helping them understand their rights, participate in public discussions and share information with others.

As LNLVIP celebrates its 40th anniversary in Lesotho, Mabote’s experiences highlight the importance of creating opportunities for people with visual impairments to access information, develop practical skills and participate meaningfully in their communities.

Her story is a reminder that a visual impairment does not erase a person’s interests, ambitions or capacity to live independently. With the right information, support and opportunities, people can continue pursuing the things that matter to them while finding new ways to navigate life’s challenges.