…with vibrant celebration at Baduza Park
Seithati Motsoeneng
THE Lesotho Tourism Festival (LETOFE) wrapped up in spectacular fashion on Sunday with a vibrant celebration at Baduza Park at Maseru Mall, drawing crowds of locals and visitors for a day filled with music, culture and family entertainment.
The LETOFE Wrap-Up Experience marked the culmination of weeks of celebrating Lesotho’s rich heritage and tourism potential. The event blended music, fashion and community activities, creating a festive atmosphere that highlighted the country’s cultural pride.
Sponsored by Standard Lesotho Bank (SLB) SmartCard, the event transformed the lush surroundings of Baduza Park into a lively gathering space where families and friends enjoyed a relaxed day of entertainment and social interaction.
A major highlight of the event was electrifying performances by renowned South African Afro-pop groups Mafikizolo and Malaika. Mafikizolo thrilled the audience with their signature fusion of Afro-pop and contemporary sounds, while Malaika captivated the crowd with soulful melodies and a powerful stage presence that brought the festival to a memorable close.
SLB Marketing Manager for Communications and Sponsorships, Manyathela Kheleli, said the bank aims to grow the festival into a lifestyle event that caters for families as festivals increasingly evolve into broader lifestyle experiences.
“Our objective is to bring families together in one space where they can relax and enjoy themselves without the need for separate activities,” Mr Kheleli said.
Beyond the musical performances, the festival maintained a strong family-friendly focus. A dedicated kiddies’ corner offered various games and activities, ensuring young attendees were equally entertained.
Local and international DJs also kept the energy high throughout the day, delivering upbeat music that encouraged dancing and lively interaction among festivalgoers.
Visitors also explored a variety of fashion stalls showcasing the creativity of local designers. From traditional Basotho attire to contemporary fashion pieces, the displays celebrated Lesotho’s textile heritage and emerging design talent.
The festival further provided a platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase handcrafted products, including jewellery and traditional garments. The stalls not only promoted small businesses but also encouraged cultural exchange and support for local craftsmanship.
Overall, the LETOFE Wrap-Up Experience celebrated Lesotho’s cultural diversity and tourism potential, bringing people together in a festive environment that emphasised community, creativity and heritage.
As the festival concluded, many attendees left with a renewed appreciation for Lesotho’s vibrant culture and the hope that similar events will continue to grow.
