Ms Lineo Alphoncinah Palime, is a diplomat with over 19 years of experience, currently Charge d’Affaires at Lesotho High Commission, London. Lineo was born in Phahameng, Lesotho, South Africa, she is a single mother of two children Rets’epile Christina Palime and son Thabelo Charles Palime who sadly passed away in September 2021 after a sudden illness. After completing her degree in Public Administration and Political Science (PA/PS) at National University of Lesotho in 2003, Lineo joined Lesotho Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations working in the Directorate of Asia and Pacific Realm (DAPR) as First Secretary until 2013 when she was promoted as Counsellor in the same directorate. In 2016, Lineo was appointed as Minister Counsellor at Lesotho Embassy, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, transferring to London in 2019.
1) Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
United Kingdom.
2) What are your proudest achievements?
Being able to represent my country in Addis Ababa helped me contribute to the work of the African Union which included the Peace and Security Council (PSC), while in London the highlight of my career is representing my country’s contribution to the work of the Commonwealth and most importantly to hold fort as Acting Envoy for my country in Great Britain.
3) What inspires you?
Diplomacy.
4) What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
Lack of resources.
5) Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
I have several role models of whom are my parents and Archbishop who always encourage me to strive to be the best, confident, dedicated and committed to whatever I do in life.
6) What is the best aspect about your current role?
Being able to assist the needy and represent my country with dignity both in Addis Ababa and in London.
7) And the worst?
There is no aspect, however, being entrusted to run the strategic Mission like Lesotho – London is a great honour and privilege.
8) What are your long-term goals?
To build my career, contribute in building my country Lesotho. As a woman strive towards getting a leadership position within a period of one year after general elections in September,2022.
9) If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
I would focus more in professionalising Civil Service as the backbone of the government.
10) If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why.
President Nelson Mandela because he fought for freedom
