Moshoeshoe’s Day

On March 11th - Moshoeshoe's Day, the Bosothos gather to commemorate the Great's life and reign of Lesotho's first king, also known as the father of Lesotho. He is a gifted leader and diplomat and was responsible for the preservation of much of the country's cultural legacy, as well as the establishment of Christianity through his acceptance of European missionaries. The king passed away on March 11th, 1870, therefore people choose this day to mark the first ruler of a country.

Today, the Basotho people continue to show their respect to their founder with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony in Maseru's capital city, as well as sporting events and traditional music and dancing. Moshoeshoe's Day is celebrated with festivities held in all of the country's districts. There are various political and ceremonial speeches conducted to persuade the public to support the government's efforts to alleviate the country's persistent poverty.

When: March 11th

Where: All across the country