A dazzling sea of colourful Seshoeshoe dresses, intricately designed blankets and elegant traditional attire transformed Avani Maseru into a living tapestry of Basotho culture as hundreds gathered for the annual Khaba Joalo Ka ‘Mabasotho celebration, marking the 50th birthday of Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso.
Held under the theme “Crowned in Heritage,” the event blended culture, philanthropy, fashion and entertainment into a memorable evening dedicated to celebrating the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and raising support for vulnerable children through the Hlokomela Bana Foundation.
The atmosphere throughout the evening was vibrant and festive, with women and men, though predominantly women, arriving in striking Seshoeshoe creations and traditional blankets that created a picturesque display of Basotho heritage and elegance.
From the moment guests entered the venue, it was clear that this year’s celebration was unlike any other. The event radiated jubilation befitting a Golden Jubilee, as attendees embraced the occasion as both a cultural showcase and an opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause.
Adding to the evening’s excitement were captivating performances by renowned musician Maleh and a fashion showcase by internationally acclaimed designer Georges Malelu, whose creations brought a contemporary flair to traditional Basotho fashion.
Rev. Moruti Tuoane gave a biblical, inspirational talk on the importance of giving, drawing on her own experiences.
Also making it to the stage were the Lesotho Choir, Thizozo and Ntate Mantsa.
Since its launch in 2017, Khaba Joalo Ka ‘Mabasotho has become one of Lesotho’s most anticipated social and charitable events. It brings together business leaders, corporate partners and members of the public to celebrate Basotho identity while supporting national development initiatives.
Addressing guests, Her Majesty expressed gratitude to Avani Maseru Hotel for consistently organising the event and supporting the work of Hlokomela Bana.
“It is by the grace of God that I am celebrating 50 years today,” she said.
She explained that the celebration serves a dual purpose: commemorating her birthday while also creating an opportunity for Basotho to support vulnerable children.
“We are remembering vulnerable and needy children, ensuring that they, too, can enjoy life and have their needs met. At the same time, people are able to celebrate my birthday through acts of giving,” she said.
The Queen humorously recounted how a friend had complained about not receiving an invitation to the event.
“I had to explain that even I am an invited guest. This event belongs to the spirit of giving, with celebration at its centre,” she said, drawing laughter from attendees.
Her Majesty reserved special praise for Avani Maseru Hotel, describing the hospitality establishment as one of the most consistent supporters of Hlokomela Bana.
“It was mentioned earlier that we are not funded. This event plays a very important role in helping us meet the needs of the children we support. Avani has remained steadfast in walking this journey with us.”
The Queen noted that while the event did not take place last year, the wait made the 2026 celebration even more special.
“Now I understand why we did not celebrate last year. It was preparation for this magnificent celebration of my 50th year. Today’s festivities surpass all the previous years,” she said.
She used the occasion to encourage Basotho to embrace kindness and generosity.
“As the celebrations continue, I urge every Mosotho to prioritise acts of kindness. When you give, God blesses you. Celebrate me by praising God, by giving and by simply being kind.”
Her Majesty also encouraged Basotho to adopt healthier lifestyles, drawing applause when she jokingly demonstrated that turning 50 did not mean slowing down.
“I am happy that at 50 I can still get down on the dance floor,” she said. “Let us exercise, eat healthy and take care of ourselves. I am heading to 100 years, and I encourage all of you to strive for healthy living.”
The Queen also observed that women continue to dominate attendance at the annual event.
“Every year, I notice that there are many women and only a few men. I do not know why men are reluctant to attend, but I am grateful to those who come.”
The celebration’s charitable focus centred on Hlokomela Bana, an organisation founded in the 1980s by the late Queen ‘Mamohato Bereng Seeiso to support vulnerable children across Lesotho. It now operates under the auspices of the National Queen’s Trust Fund, with Queen ‘Masenate serving as its patron.
Speaking on behalf of the foundation, representatives highlighted the organisation’s ongoing efforts to support orphaned and vulnerable children through educational assistance, clothing donations and other interventions.
The foundation reported that funds raised through previous editions of the event have enabled donations to schools across the country, including Philisanong School for learners with disabilities, where winter clothing, educational materials and wheelchairs were provided.
This year, the foundation honoured the legacy of Queen ‘Mamohato through a visit to Mamohau High School, where food parcels, school uniforms and teaching aids were donated. Plans are also underway to support St Leo’s School at Ha-Makhoathi in the coming weeks.
The foundation appealed to the private sector to continue partnering with Hlokomela Bana to ensure that vulnerable children receive the support they need.
Avani Maseru Hotel General Manager, Letsoso Mohaso, said the event was inspired by Her Majesty’s desire for a birthday celebration that creates a lasting impact.
“The event was a response to Her Majesty’s call for a meaningful celebration that would allow Basotho to express kindness while enjoying themselves,” he said.
“We are honoured that Her Majesty chose Avani as the home of this prestigious event, which makes possible her vision of helping vulnerable Basotho children.”
Sales and Marketing Manager Sharlene Maema described Khaba Joalo Ka ‘Mabasotho as one of the highlights of the hotel’s annual calendar and said this year’s celebration carried special significance because it marked Her Majesty’s Golden Jubilee.
The previous edition of the event raised approximately M65,000 for Hlokomela Bana, and organisers expressed optimism that this year’s gathering would generate even greater support.
As music filled the ballroom and guests danced late into the evening, Khaba Joalo Ka ‘Mabasotho 2026 showed why it has become much more than a birthday celebration, but a national platform that honours culture, celebrates leadership and mobilises compassion for Lesotho’s most vulnerable children.
Summary
- A dazzling sea of colourful Seshoeshoe dresses, intricately designed blankets and elegant traditional attire transformed Avani Maseru into a living tapestry of Basotho culture as hundreds gathered for the annual Khaba Joalo Ka ‘Mabasotho celebration, marking the 50th birthday of Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso.
- Held under the theme “Crowned in Heritage,” the event blended culture, philanthropy, fashion and entertainment into a memorable evening dedicated to celebrating the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and raising support for vulnerable children through the Hlokomela Bana Foundation.
- The event radiated jubilation befitting a Golden Jubilee, as attendees embraced the occasion as both a cultural showcase and an opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause.
Co-Owner and Managing Editor of Newsday Media Lesotho. PEPFAR Media champion, Award wining features journalist, an Investigative journalist, REPSSI CAB member. Maseru, Lesotho Joined November 2009.
