…as music, culture and tourism unite at Lesotho’s premier lifestyle festival
Moroke Sekoboto
TELECOMMUNICATIONS giant, Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL), in partnership with Global Events, this week officially launched the seventh edition of Econet APICA at Baduza Park, Maseru Mall.
ETL has injected more than M1.5 million into the event, promising to pull off a memorable edition.
The 2026 festival is scheduled for 27 February to 1 March at the iconic Ramabanta Trading Post, a venue famed for its breathtaking scenery and immersive outdoor experiences.
Speaking at the launch, ETL Acting General Manager for Marketing Communications and Customer Experience, Puleng ‘Mathabo Masoabi, highlighted the company’s sustained investment in Econet APICA since 2019, underscoring ETL’s commitment to driving Lesotho’s digital economy while empowering the arts and entertainment industry.
“Our investment in Econet APICA goes beyond entertainment. It is about supporting local talent, creating opportunities, and contributing meaningfully to Lesotho’s economic growth, while remaining steadfast in our vision of a digitally enabled future,” Masoabi said.
She added that this year’s edition will introduce a VIP section on the main event day (the second day of the festival), which will be available to valued customers at a cost.
During the launch, Global Events organiser Montoeli ‘Moleli unveiled some of the local and international headline acts set to grace the stage. These include legendary Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, Mawhoo, Sannere, Citizen Ls, Kelvin Momo, DJ Tseko, Bekezele, Jazzy T and Mookho Moqhali, among others.
‘Moleli emphasised that Econet APICA’s impact extends far beyond music.
“Econet APICA is a powerful economic catalyst. From local vendors, security personnel, tour guides and transport operators to accommodation providers and SMMEs, the festival creates real opportunities and livelihoods while showcasing the best of Lesotho,” he said.
Adding a strong tourism perspective, Phomolo Lebotsa, Head of Marketing and Acting Chief Executive of the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC), underscored the festival’s growing importance as both a cultural and tourism platform.
“Econet APICA has become a flagship event on Lesotho’s cultural calendar. It plays a critical role in positioning Lesotho as a compelling tourism destination for both regional and international visitors, while celebrating our rich heritage and natural beauty,” Lebotsa said.
He noted that Lesotho has identified tourism as a key driver of economic growth, adding that Econet APICA serves as a catalyst for economic development and job creation, while helping to sell and showcase Lesotho as a unique destination.
Representing the artists, Afro Jazz sensation, Mookho Moqhali, paid tribute to Econet Telecom Lesotho for powering the event and providing a vital platform for creative expression.
“We are incredibly grateful to Econet Telecom Lesotho for believing in the power of music and culture. Econet APICA is more than a festival – it is a movement. Fans can expect unforgettable performances, energy and moments that celebrate who we are,” Moqhali said.
Beyond the music, Econet APICA 2026 promises a fully immersive experience, featuring a comedy night, camping under the stars, hiking through Lesotho’s majestic mountain landscapes, and unforgettable horseback riding adventures ending with soothing R&B, soul and jazz sessions.
These experiences showcase the country’s natural beauty and firmly position Econet APICA as more than just a music festival, but a complete cultural and tourism experience.
Tickets are available via Econet’s EcoTicket platform at ecoticket.co.ls, ensuring easy and convenient access for music lovers across Lesotho and beyond.
