Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) and the United States of America (USA) - New York National Guard (NYNG) hosted Military-to-Military Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) on 23 September 2026 at LDF Headquarters Ratjomose, Maseru Lesotho.

In her keynote remarks, the Chairperson of SMEE and also the LDF Director of Human Resource and Admin, Dr Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Nolukhanyo Ndleleni officially opened the session and welcomed the USA delegation on behalf of the Commander Lesotho Defence Force. “Welcome to the Mountain Kingdom, this engagement will strengthen the strategic relationships between the two Militaries.” Stated Dr Lt Col Ndleleni. She emphasized that the close proximity, historical, social and family relations between communities on both sides of the international boundary contribute to strong and cordial relations between the two countries.

On the other hand, the Team Leader of NYNG US Embassy Pretoria, Lt Col John Clark outlined a possible point of continuation of the sessions between the LDF and NYGN. He further acknowledged the special relationship between Lesotho and South-Africa, particularly in view of Lesotho’s geographical position as an enclave surrounded by South-Africa.

The engagement was structured around illicit trafficking detection and interdiction, Doctrine development and Multinational Peacekeeping. The engagement provided an opportunity for LDF and New York National Guard to share operational experiences, examine potential capability and development opportunities.