Seithati Motšoeneng
THE nation is gearing up for an unprecedented celebration of culture, adventure and community development with the upcoming 2026 Katse Tourism Festival.
Scheduled for 26–28 February 2026, the annually organised event, supported by the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA), will unfold against the breathtaking backdrop of Katse Dam, Africa’s second-largest double-curvature arch dam, nestled in the heart of the Lesotho highlands in Thaba Tseka.
Since its debut in 2021, the Katse Tourism Festival has grown steadily in popularity, attracting both local residents and international visitors eager to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Mountain Kingdom.
The festival reflects a shared vision of sustainable development, cultural preservation and community well-being, transforming the Katse area into a hub of economic opportunity and national pride.
Organisers say the 2026 edition is expected to surpass previous years by not only showcasing Lesotho’s rich cultural heritage, but also strengthening efforts around sustainable tourism and community empowerment.
The festival promises a vibrant and diverse programme of activities. Visitors can look forward to traditional Basotho cultural performances, featuring energetic dance troupes, colourful attire and storytelling sessions that celebrate indigenous history and identity. Adventure enthusiasts will enjoy water-based activities on the scenic Katse Reservoir, including boat cruises and fishing expeditions.
Adrenaline-filled attractions such as bull-riding competitions and a mini-marathon winding through the picturesque landscape surrounding the dam are also on the programme. Food lovers will be treated to cooking competitions highlighting local delicacies such as moroho (wild spinach), vegetable stews and fresh trout, offering a true taste of Lesotho’s culinary heritage.
Beyond entertainment, the Katse Tourism Festival has become an important platform for sustainable development and community upliftment. Proceeds from previous editions have been channelled into projects aimed at improving healthcare, sanitation and education in surrounding communities. This approach has seen residents move from being passive beneficiaries to active participants who take pride in shaping their own economic future.
Festival chairperson, Selikane Rakuoane, emphasised the importance of positioning Katse as an international tourism destination.
“Our goal is to leverage the natural beauty of this area to attract tourists from around the world,” Mr Rakuoane said.
“The festival is not just about entertainment; it is about creating lasting economic opportunities for our people.”
LHDA chief executive officer, Tente Tente, reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to community development and cultural preservation.
“The festival embodies our vision of turning natural attractions into engines of economic growth. It is also a platform for empowering youth, fostering cultural pride and strengthening partnerships with local communities,” Tente said.
Looking ahead, organisers hope the festival will continue to attract growing numbers of international visitors, encouraging longer stays and increased tourism spending. The ultimate goal is to position Lesotho as a must-visit destination on the global tourism map, while ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach even the most remote communities.
