The Moshoeshoe Walk, a 116-km trek retracing the historic route taken more than two centuries ago by King Moshoeshoe I, has grown into one of Lesotho's most influential cultural traditions since its inception in 2007.

by Xinhua writer Hang Zebo, Bai Ge

MASERU, March 8 (Xinhua) -- As the first light of dawn broke over the peaks of northern Lesotho, the quiet village of Menkhoaneng sprang to life with songs and dance. Under swirling mountain mist, thousands of participants gathered to embark on a journey steeped in the country's history.

The Moshoeshoe Walk 2026, a 116-km trek from Thursday to Saturday, retraces the historic route taken more than two centuries ago by King Moshoeshoe I, the founding father of the Basotho nation, which became the Kingdom of Lesotho in 1966 after gaining independence from the United Kingdom.

Since its inception in 2007, the annual event held every March has grown into one of Lesotho's most influential cultural traditions, bringing together young and old to follow in the footsteps of their ancestors.

More than 200 years ago, at a time when much of southern Africa was mired in violent conflict and displacement, King Moshoeshoe I chose a path that would shape the identity of the Basotho people. Rather than conquering neighboring groups, he welcomed displaced communities, forged alliances through dialogue and marriage, and granted land to integrate people from different backgrounds.

"We need to know where we come from so that we can understand who we are and where we are going," said 56-year-old Lesotho hiker Lekhooa Ramokhoro, noting that the trek connects participants to the country's past.

Hikers from countries, including Lesotho, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, travel from across the region to take part in the event, learning not only about Lesotho's nationhood but also engaging in a broader platform for regional cultural exchange.

As a landlocked country surrounded by South Africa and home to about 2.3 million people, Lesotho is the only country in the world whose entire territory lies above 1,000 meters in elevation.

Mokhehle Molobye, a participant from South Africa, said the walk carries a message that resonates beyond borders.

"King Moshoeshoe I represents a spirit that unites people," Molobye said, noting that the event helps revive and preserve the legacy of the founding king even after many years.

Representatives of the local Chinese community and members of the 19th Chinese medical team to Lesotho also participated in the event, providing medical support along the route to ensure the safety of hikers.

"The event not only serves as a sporting activity but also helps participants better understand Lesotho's history and culture," said Yin Hao, an employee of Sinohydro Bureau 11 Co., Ltd.

The experience allows Chinese companies operating in the country to integrate more closely into local communities and contribute to local development, Yin added.

"While providing medical support, we are also sharing friendship and strengthening the bond between the people of China and Lesotho," said Wu Hui, head of the 19th Chinese medical team to Lesotho.

Motlatsi Maqelepo, Lesotho's minister of tourism, sports, arts, and culture, welcomed participants from different countries to the event and highlighted its significance for cultural exchange.

"It means a lot for bilateral relations between Lesotho and China," Maqelepo said.