Moroke Sekoboto
ALL roads lead to the scenic Ramabanta Trading Post in the outskirts of Maseru this weekend, where the highly anticipated Econet APICA 2025 festival will take place from tomorrow until Sunday.
Telecommunications powerhouse Econet Telecom Lesotho has injected over M700 000 alongside organisers Global Events to make this edition one to remember.
As one of Lesotho’s biggest music and leisure events, APICA promises an unforgettable experience with world-class entertainment, thrilling adventure activities, and significant economic benefits for the country.
This year’s festival is headlined by internationally acclaimed jazz icon Jonathan Butler, whose remarkable career has spanned decades, captivating audiences worldwide with his soulful melodies. Butler was recently awarded an honorary doctorate of Philosophy (honoris causa) by Stellenbosch University in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the music industry and his efforts in uplifting communities through his artistry.
Joining Butler on the Econet APICA 2025 stage will be an impressive lineup of local and international artists, including South African hip-hop star K.O, soulful singer Azana, and Lesotho’s own Wave Rhyder and Omali Themba. The festival will also feature Ebonics, Jazzy Tea, Goldhearted, Philey Khumalo, Da Starr, DJ Tseko, and Dikata, ensuring a diverse and electrifying musical experience.
Beyond the music, festivalgoers can enjoy camping under the stars, hiking through Lesotho’s stunning mountain landscapes, and horseback riding adventures. These activities highlight the country’s natural beauty and position Econet APICA as more than just a music festival – it’s an all-encompassing cultural and tourism experience.
Econet’s Acting General Manager for Marketing Communications and Customer Service, Puleng ‘Mathabo Masoabi, emphasised the company’s dedication to fostering local talent and promoting tourism.
“Econet Telecom Lesotho is proud to power Econet APICA 2025, ensuring that Lesotho continues to be a vibrant hub for music and culture. This festival not only entertains but also creates job opportunities, boosts tourism, and provides a platform for SMMEs to thrive. It is an investment in our people, our economy, and the arts,” Ms Masoabi said.
She added that the festival’s impact extends beyond entertainment, stimulating job creation and economic activity—from local vendors and security personnel to hospitality services and transportation. Additionally, it serves as an excellent platform for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to showcase and promote their products and services, further driving economic growth in Lesotho.
“Beyond the exceptional music performances, Econet APICA is more than just a festival—it’s an experience.”
Global Events’s Montoeli ‘Moleli also highlighted the significance of Econet’s continued support in making this festival a reality.
“We are grateful for our partnership with Econet, which enables us to deliver an event of this magnitude as part of the country’s entertainment calendar. Econet APICA promises nothing but fun for friends and loved ones while also showcasing what the Kingdom in the Sky has to offer in terms of entertainment.
“As anticipation builds for Econet APICA 2025, music lovers and adventure seekers can look forward to a weekend filled with spectacular performances, breathtaking scenery, and an unparalleled cultural experience. With Econet at the helm, this festival continues to elevate Lesotho’s entertainment scene while driving economic and social impact.”
