Lesotho seeks expansion of Thaba-Bosiu Monument’s historic recognition
MPHO RAMOLULA
MASERU – Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture hosted a workshop on Monday at UNESCO hall which focused on expanding the scope of the Thaba-Bosiu National Monument to include historically significant sites.
Thaba-Bosiu National Monument is a historically significant mountain fortress in Lesotho, holding deep cultural and historical importance for the Basotho people. It served as the stronghold of King Moshoeshoe I, a key figure in Lesotho’s history.
Currently, only Thaba-Bosiu itself is on UNESCO’s tentative list.
This new initiative seeks to broaden the nomination to encompass other sites intimately linked to the kingdom’s founding and development, providing a more comprehensive picture of Basotho history and culture. Lesotho already boasts one UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sehlabathebe National Park.
The workshop’s main objective is to secure UNESCO recognition for additional sites connected to the Basotho nation’s history, including Botha-Bothe plateau (Morena Moshoeshoe’s first fortress), Menkhoaneng (his birthplace), Lipetu, and Malimong.
These locations collectively narrate the Basotho people’s story, showcasing their resilience and cultural heritage.
The Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture envisions this expanded nomination as a catalyst for economic growth.
Increased tourism stemming from the UNESCO designation would create employment opportunities and improve the livelihoods of communities situated along the proposed heritage route.
Pokello Mahlomola, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the significance of preserving Lesotho’s cultural heritage, stating that it plays a vital role in unifying Basotho, strengthening our national identity and fostering a deep sense of pride in our historical legacy.
He highlighted the economic benefits, asserting that the impact of this nomination extends far beyond prestige. It will serve as a catalyst for economic growth by boosting tourism, creating employment opportunities, and enhancing the livelihoods of the communities along the heritage route.
Mahlomola expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their participation and expertise, stating, “Your participation in this workshop signifies your dedication to the preservation of our heritage. I urge you all to share your expertise, insights and experiences to ensure that this process is successful.”
He stressed the collaborative nature of the project, stating that the dream of adding another UNESCO World Heritage Site to Lesotho is within their reach if they work together with diligence and determination.
“It is both an honour and privilege to stand before you today as we embark on a significant journey towards the preservation and promotion of our national heritage,” said Mahlomola, setting the tone for the workshop.
He further stated, “these sites represent the very foundation of our history, culture and identity, and their recognition on a global scale would not only reaffirm our pride as a nation, but also offer immense benefits to our people and our economy.”
The workshop aimed to expand the scope of the Thaba-Bosiu National Monument nomination to include sites such as Botha-Bothe, Menkhoaneng, Lipetu, and Malimong, thereby telling a more complete story of the Basotho people’s history.
The government believes this will significantly stimulate the local economy through increased tourism and job creation.
The success of Sehlabathebe’s UNESCO recognition fuelled confidence in the possibility of securing similar status for the expanded Thaba-Bosiu site.
Mahlomola concluded his remarks by expressing appreciation to UNESCO for their continued support, acknowledging the crucial role played by Dr Pascall Taruvinga in securing the Sehlabathebe’s designation.
He voiced confidence in the success of the project, stating: “as we look ahead with great hope and trust, to the expansion of Thaba-Bosiu’s scope, we are confident that under your continued stewardship and guidance, our technical team will be empowered to succeed once again.”
The workshop represents a significant step towards enriching Lesotho’s cultural landscape and promoting its rich history on the global stage.
The successful expansion of the Thaba-Bosiu National Monument’s scope would not only elevate Lesotho’s international profile but also provide substantial economic benefits to local communities.
The collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, and supported by UNESCO, showcases a commitment to preserving and celebrating Lesotho’s invaluable cultural heritage for future generations.
The people of Lesotho and the international community alike will closely follow the outcome of the workshop and the subsequent UNESCO processes.
