By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – The vibrant celebration of Basotho culture and heritage will once again come to life on August 2 2025 as the Basotho New Year is hosted at the Basotho Cultural Village in QwaQwa.
Following the resounding success of the 2024 celebration, which coincided with the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democracy, the bicentenary of the Basotho nation, and the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Basotho Cultural Village, the 2025 edition promises to be yet another milestone in the preservation of African identity.
As the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter is also celebrated in 2025, the Basotho New Year takes on deeper meaning. The iconic words of the charter, “The doors of learning and culture shall be opened,” echo through this annual celebration rooted in African heritage.
Speaking ahead of the celebration, Principal Chief Paulos Moloi, of the Makholokoe Royal House, expressed his support and pride in the ongoing tradition.
“As custodians of culture and traditions, we are happy to take part in this festive event that celebrates Basotho culture and heritage. Year in and year out, the celebration is held at Basotho Cultural Village right in our backyard and it boasts of Basotho traditional attire, food, music, and decor that reflect our cultural identity. We, as the Makholokoe, are very proud to be part and parcel of this celebration and know that any challenges that may arise will be addressed by working hand in hand with the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation,” said Chief Moloi.
The Basotho New Year traditionally begins in August (Phato), marking the end of the dry winter season (Mariha) and the beginning of a season of new life. It is also the time when fields are cultivated and the first crop is offered in a sacred ritual to Tlatlamatjholo (God).
Mme Ntombizanele Sifuba, MEC for the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation (SACR), emphasized the cultural significance of the occasion.
“During the 2025 Basotho New Year celebration, we will again showcase the prestigious and magnificent heritage of the Basotho people, which we should all pride ourselves in as Africans,” said Sifuba. “The post-colonial geo-political and economic context calls on us as Africans to constantly and practically demonstrate that Africa is a continent with a rich history and heritage.”
“The celebration will begin at 10:00 AM and feature a wide array of activities, including horse riding, traditional cultivation demonstrations, and a rich display of Sesotho music and dance, such as Mohobelo, accordion music, Serobelelo, and Sesotho hip hop. In keeping with the spirit of African unity, Zulu and Tswana traditional dances will also be featured. Attendees will enjoy a feast of Basotho traditional cuisine, bringing together flavours and stories from across the Basotho nation,” SACR spokesperson Tankiso Zola shared with the media.
This annual celebration remains a proud affirmation of identity, unity, and cultural resilience in the Free State and beyond.
