Image Credit: Mansa Kunta

Landlocked but definitely not hidden; embedded, the Kingdom of Lesotho, formerly known as the Basutoland, is an African gem recognized for its snowy winters, water, abundant diamonds and the enduring legacy of literary figures like Thomas Mofolo. One integral facet deserving a mention is the annual Moshoeshoe Walk that has since commenced on the 7th of March. This walk not only honors King Moshoeshoe’s legendary journey but also marks Lesotho’s 200 years as a founded nation. 

King Moshoeshoe I (1786-1870), a revered Southern African leader of the 19th century, is celebrated for his military prowess and ethical leadership. The Moshoeshoe’s Walk draws a diverse crowd, bringing together individuals from all walks of life, ethnicities and cultures. Despite the fact that King Moshoeshoe originally undertook the journey over nine days, definitely without the Hi-Tech boots or Heavy-duty gear, the event encapsulates the essence of his virtuous leadership as a diplomat, strategist and a unifying figure.

Initiated in 2007 by Thabo Maretlane, founder of T-Connexion, a tourism and marketing company, the Walk has become bigger and better each year, reaching its 16th edition alongside Lesotho’s bicentennial celebration this year. Held annually in March, the Walk sees participation from members of the royal family and numerous dignitaries. This year, the 3-day Walk was inaugurated by the Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane. Although the esteemed His Majesty King Letsie III was absent, the gracious Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso was present. 

Embarking from Menkhoaneng, the Walk spans 116km, weaving through Leribe and culminating at the iconic Thaba-Bosiu (Mountain at Night), which is where Moshoeshoe I built his almost impregnable fortress. It is at that stronghold where Moshoeshoe warded off attacks from many enemies, including Shaka Zulu’s and Mzilikazi’s Ndebele, during the Shaka wars, a gruesome period known as the Lifaqane wars (1813-1830). During that uncertain time, through moral influence, prowess and ethical leadership, Moshoeshoe built the Basotho nation.

While the Moshoeshoe Walk is often perceived as a grand and harmonious event, it is essential to acknowledge the unfiltered realities, like the ones shared in Tendai’s Murawha’s memoir, “Saved By The King.” In the Memoir, Queen ‘Masenate Bereng Seeiso, who was a consistent participant, opted for a horse on the second leg and a helicopter to Mont-Aux-Sources to meet the finalists, showcasing the challenges participants face, from blisters to chilling temperatures.

Remarkably, according to a credible source, the Moshoeshoe Walk has witnessed  no untoward “horrible” incidents, a testament to its meticulous organization. The involvement of high-profile individuals, organizations, and the royal family ensures excellent guides, well-equipped camps, and usually a constant aerial security, safeguarding participants throughout the journey.

This year’s walk is special for several reasons. Foremost, it marks the 200th anniversary of Lesotho as a founded nation. Additionally, it’s notable as the first occasion that a Mosotho athlete, distance runner Tebello Ramakongoana from Qacha’s Nek, will be participating in the Olympic Games, set to take place in France, Paris from June to August 2024. On that note, reliable sources indicated that the French Ambassador,  His Excellency David Martinon, was initially expected to join the Walk and plant the Olympic flag on Mont-aux-Sources. This symbolic act was intended to kickstart various projects initiated by the French and Lesotho governments leading up to the Bicentenary Celebrations throughout October.

Unfortunately, the French Ambassador did not partake in the Walk. Nonetheless, a representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Lesotho, Setloke Lekhela, assured this publication that the enduring friendship between Basotho and the French remains robust. He expressed optimism about future collaborations between the two nations in the near future. 

Lesotho is a developing country, but it is also a young country. Her origin story is profound and its resilience is embodied by events like the Moshoeshoe Walk. As one reflects back on her journey, it is an opportune moment to celebrate her enduring spirit. The Moshoeshoe Walk stands as a poignant reminder of the tenacity of the Basotho people and the everlasting legacy of Moshoeshoe I, echoing through the mountains, hills and valleys of Lesotho.