Moshoeshoe Walk set to welcome 2 000 participants

The 2026 edition of the annual Moshoeshoe Walk is expected to draw at least 2 000 participants when it takes place from March 5 to 7, organisers have announced.

The three-day heritage walk retraces the historic journey of Moshoeshoe I, who led his people to the mountain fortress of Thaba Bosiu in the 19th century.

What began in 2007 as a cultural commemoration has grown into an international event attracting hikers from across the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the rest of Africa and beyond.

Speaking at a press briefing this week, Thabo Maretlane, Managing Director of T-Connexion Marketing and Tours and founder of the walk, said preparations are well underway to host what he described as one of Africa’s most unique heritage experiences.

“No one pulls the ground like the Moshoeshoe Walk in Africa. It is not just a normal walk — it is walking in the footsteps of King Moshoeshoe I. Basotho should know that this is their pride,” Maretlane said.

The route begins at ‘Mate, Menkhoaneng, passing through Malaoaneng, Mahobong, Thaba-Phatŝoa, Lipetu, Ha Makhoroana, Mahlatsa, Malimong, Ha Kome, Sefikeng, Metolong and Khamolane, before culminating at Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village.

Beyond celebrating history, the organisers say the walk also carries a strong social responsibility component. Over the years, the initiative has built toilets for schools along the route, donated Bibles to churches, provided mobile phones to elderly villagers, and supplied school shoes to needy pupils.

The event is supported by several partners, with Maluti Mountain Brewery (MMB) serving as the main sponsor under a two-year agreement. Other sponsors include Lesotho National Development Corporation, the Chinese Embassy, Vodacom Lesotho, Alliance Insurance, Econet Telecom Lesotho, Blue Ribbon and Clover.

MMB Managing Director, ‘Mapeete Ntjana, said the company is proud to back an event that reflects the country’s origins and values.

“This walk is our heritage and our pride,” Ntjana said.

“King Moshoeshoe I took this journey seeking peace and unity. When we produce Maluti beer, it is also about bringing people together,” she noted.

Ntjana added that the walk offers an opportunity for others to understand the resilience and peaceful spirit that define the Basotho nation.