Seithati Motšoeneng
THE Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC) commemorated World Tourism Day with Sani Top herd boys as a way of acknowledging the crucial role they play in the tourism value chain.
The tourism day, celebrated annually on the 27th of September, was this year held under the theme “Tourism and Peace”.
It saw the LTDC distribute blankets and gumboots, essential items for the herd boys, in the highlands of Mokhotlong.
The LTDC chose Mokhotlong because it is a key district in Lesotho’s tourism landscape as it houses several tourism attractions such as the iconic Thabana Ntenyana – the highest point in Southern Africa at 3482m above sea level, the Soloane Hotsprings, the highest pub in Africa – Sani Mountain Lodge, and the majestic Maloti mountains which are usually covered in snow.
The LTDC Chief Executive Officer, Molupe Pheko, said World Tourism Day 2024 underlined the vital contribution of tourism not just as an economic driver, but as a tool for fostering global peace and cultural exchanges. By strengthening the bonds between local communities and international visitors, tourism can help create a more inclusive and peaceful world.
Mr Pheko said the LTDC’s aim was thus to raise awareness among the herd boys about tourism and environmental conservation, while also formally incorporating them into the tourism value chain. Additionally, the LTDC also wanted to foster positive attitudes and behaviours towards tourists, ensuring that shepherds act as knowledgeable and welcoming ambassadors for the country.
He alluded to the crucial role herders play as ambassadors of Lesotho’s tourism industry. He noted that shepherds often interact with tourists, making them key players in shaping visitors’ experiences.
“The way shepherds approach tourists during their time in the country is very important, as it can either encourage tourists to return or discourage them from coming back,” Mr Pheko said.
“The distinctive way shepherds dress and conduct themselves is an attraction in itself, offering tourists a unique cultural experience.
“It is important to foster a peaceful and harmonious relationship between shepherds and tourists, in line with this year’s theme, ensuring a positive and fulfilling experience for visitors to Lesotho.”
Mr Pheko said tourists often sought to experience the rustic lifestyle of villages like Sani, enjoying traditional cuisine, purchasing well-crafted artifacts, and witnessing traditional performances by the herd boys.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Mosetsi Qasa, from the local farmers’ association, expressed gratitude to LTDC for educating them about tourism and for providing the gifts, which will be valuable for the herders as they carry out their duties.
“As farmers, we rely on the shepherds to take care of our livestock, so it is crucial that they are well taken care of,” Mr Qasa said.
Tsebo Molefe, representing the Southern Drakensberg Tourism Community, highlighted how tourism can bring economic opportunities and boost livelihoods in villages. He acknowledged the important role herders play in tourism, as they are the first people tourists encounter on their journey to remote destinations.
“We have seen the vital role these individuals play in our work as tour operators, and we are here to appreciate their impact as ambassadors of tourism,” Mr Molefe said.
