WATCH | Downpours, knee-deep rivers and royal spirit mark MoshoeshoeWalk finale

Staff reporter

Maseru – The 19th edition of the MoshoeshoeWalk concluded with His Majesty King Letsie III praising hikers for preserving the spirit of unity championed by his grandfather, King Moshoeshoe I.

“I am very pleased that once again the spirit of unity by Morena Moshoeshoe wa Pele (King Moshoeshoe I) is maintained,” the King said during his keynote address at the closing ceremony.

WATCH: Full closing remarks on our TikTok

The 2026 edition started in Mekhoaneng, Leribe, on Thursday and was attended by the King and Her Majesty Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso.

WATCH

Day one of the hike began on a high note, with participants in high spirits as they set off on the historic route retracing the footsteps of Moshoeshoe I.

WATCH

However, day two proved challenging as heavy rains fell throughout the day. Rivers swelled to capacity, forcing hikers to cross water reaching knee height.

WATCH

For safety reasons, the second day’s walk was cut short shortly after lunch, with organiser Thabo Maretlane explaining the decision.

WATCH

Despite the harsh weather conditions, Her Majesty the Queen led from the front, singing along the route. She was joined by Prince Lerotholi Mohato Bereng Seeiso and Princess Masenate Seeiso.

WATCH

Organisers have already set their sights on the 20th edition of MoshoeshoeWalk, scheduled for 11-13 March 2027.

This is also in celebration of Moshoeshoe Day.

The milestone event is expected to be bigger and better, with organisers aiming to collect 20 000 pairs of shoes, sanitary towels, clothes and any other item for underprivileged communities.

The 20th edition is for charity.

Those wishing to contribute can contact Maretlane on +266 6286 1361.

In other news, Her Royal Highness Princess Senate will this morning launch her Shoeshoe ea Moshoeshoe School Donation Drive aimed at helping under privileged learners.

The launch will be held at Maseru Mall at 09h30.

As team STEPUPSANEWS, we urge our stakeholders to contribute to this noble initiatives. We ask contributions in any form or shape from toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, sanitary towels etc.

We can be reached on 0685076731