A historical walk from Butha-Buthe to Thaba-Bosiu was undertaken by the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF), offering a reminder of Basotho’s rich heritage. Major General Mojor Matobakele, Vice Commander ofLDF urging collaboration between historians and knowledge bearers to illuminate Basotho history accurately.
“This walk provided a platform for diverse individuals to voice their perspectives on Basotho history. We plead with historians and knowledgeable individuals to collaborate in making our history clear,” Matobakele stated.
This historical was last done in 1824. Unlike the annual march in March, which takes a different route, this journey was accurately planned based on extensive research. Matobakele emphasized the thoroughness of the preparation: “Our researchers delved into when Moshoeshoe I left, why he left, the routes taken, and the duration of that journey.”
Crucially, the findings revealed that the Basotho departed from Butha-Buthe, not Menkhoaneng as previously believed. This migration, driven by defence reasons, occurred when Basotho were already engaged in conflicts with their enemies.
“This nation was built on foundations of war, which is whyit still exists. Most African nations were captured, but our nation was not, because of its foundation.” Matobakelenoted
The walk was conducted in June to mirror the original migration’s timing and due to scientific and geographical considerations. It was a journey of resilience and unity. Unlike in 1824, where this journey took nine day for them to reach their destination, this year’s participants, unburdened by old people and pregnant women, completed the walk in four days. They received crucial assistance from villagers and historians along the way for this journey to be a success.
Matobakele reflected on the strategic division, “They were not traveling as a crowd but were divided into armies based on their roles role.”
The walk was not a re-enactment but a call to correct historical inaccuracies, particularly those documented by colonial writers.
“We cannot say the history written by white people is accurate because no proper investigations were done to confirm what they said,” Matobakele asserted.
This sentiment highlights the importance of indigenous knowledge and the need for Basotho to reclaim their narrative.
Looking ahead, the LDF is committed to institutionalizing this historical walk, with plans to conduct it annually. Matobakele emphasized that it is important for the governmental and community to support them insustaining this tradition. He portrayed that as LDF they are ready and available to make this walk happen every year through the support of the government and Basotho.
This walk not only commemorates the migration that solidified the Basotho nation-state but also serves as a powerful reminder of their unity and resilience. As Matobakele appropriately put it, the walk is a testament to the enduring spirit of a nation that has survived the test of time and adversity.
In an era where the past is often overshadowed by the present, this initiative breathes new life into Basotho history, ensuring that the legacy of Moshoeshoe I and the unconquerable spirit of the Basotho people continue to inspire future generations. This walk will again be done on the 4th of October.
