Lesotho is once again preparing to celebrate one of its most significant cultural and historical events, the Moshoeshoe Walk. Now in its 18th edition, this annual pilgrimage pays tribute to King Moshoeshoe I, the founder of the Basotho nation. The event retraces his legendary journey of resilience and unity, drawing participants from across the globe to experience history on foot.
The walk, scheduled to take place from March 6th to 8th, with departure set for March 5th at 10 a.m., will cover a historic route from Menkhoaneng to Thaba Phats’oa, Malimong, and ultimately, Thaba Bosiu, the sacred mountain fortress where King Moshoeshoe I established the Basotho nation. Along the way, walkers will immerse themselves in traditional Basotho heritage, retracing the footsteps of a visionary leader who united scattered clans to form a powerful kingdom in the 19th century.
According to Matela Molapo, the Public Relations Officer of the Lesotho Tourism Development Cooperation (LTDC), the Moshoeshoe Walk is more than just a commemoration, it is a tourism drawcard that enhances Lesotho’s visibility on the global stage. “The walk attracts tourism, as many people visit Lesotho to explore. It also serves as a marketing tool, as those who participate go back home and share their experiences. This word-of-mouth promotion plays a crucial role in encouraging others to learn about our culture, history, and monarchy,” Molapo stated.
One of the walk’s major sponsors, Maluti Mountain Brewery (MMB), recognizes its cultural significance. Charma Mwansa, representing MMB, emphasized how the event strengthens cultural identity. “This is a prestigious walk that takes us back to our roots. Being part of it means contributing to our own culture. This year, we are running a campaign called ‘Back to Our Roots’ to encourage people to reconnect with their heritage,” Mwansa said.
Beyond cultural preservation, the Moshoeshoe Walk has become a beacon of community development. The brainchild of Thabo Maretlane, the event has grown tremendously, attracting international media and participants from countries such as the United Kingdom, Austria, China, Nigeria, and Kenya. Maretlane highlighted the walk’s impact on local communities along the route. “We have empowered local communities in various ways. Every year, we leave a mark, whether it’s building schools, churches, or toilets in the area. We also support local organizations such as Hlokomela Banana and other community initiatives. This year, we expect around 1,000 participants,” he revealed.
While Lesotho’s tourism industry has made strides, Maretlane believes there is still work to be done to position the country more prominently on the global tourism map. “The walk has grown significantly, but Lesotho remains behind when it comes to tourism, even after 200 years of nationhood. Our goal is to ensure that other parts of the country receive recognition, not just a select few tourist destinations,” he added.
For participants, the Moshoeshoe Walk is not just a physical challenge but a journey of reflection, patriotism, and cultural immersion. Dressed in traditional Basotho blankets, carrying walking sticks, and singing songs, walkers experience a deep connection with their ancestry, reliving the struggles and triumphs of King Moshoeshoe I.
As the 18th edition approaches, anticipation is high, with both local and international participants eager to step into history, embrace their roots, and walk in the footsteps of a great leader. The Moshoeshoe Walk continues to be a living tribute to Lesotho’s rich past and an inspiration for future generations.
