Excitement is building across the Mountain Kingdom as preparations hit high gear for the highly anticipated Econet APICA festival.

This premier event, a dynamic collaboration between Econet Telecom Lesotho and Global Events, promises an unforgettable fusion of world-class music, thrilling adventure, and vibrant local culture at the scenic Ramabanta Trading Post.

Since its inception in 2019, Econet APICA, which stands for African Picnic and Camping, has rapidly grown into a cornerstone of Lesotho’s entertainment calendar, drawing enthusiasts from across the region.

“Econet APICA is a visionary collaboration,” explains Puleng ‘Mathabo Masoabi, Econet’s acting GM for Marketing Communications and Customer Experience.

“Our aim is to create a world-class music and adventure festival that celebrates entertainment, culture, and tourism in Lesotho.”

The festival’s mission extends beyond mere entertainment.

“The primary mission is to enhance Lesotho’s entertainment landscape, foster community engagement, and promote the country’s tourism sector,” Masoabi stated.

Importantly, it also serves as a platform “to have fun with Econet’s valued customers for their invaluable support.”

Underscoring this commitment, Econet has invested over M700,000 into this year’s edition, highlighting the event’s significance and scale.

Evolution has been key to APICA’s success. Masoabi noted that the festival has “evolved quite significantly,” expanding its artist line-ups to include both international icons and local heroes, while integrating unique outdoor experiences like hiking, horse riding, and gaming.

This year boasts a particularly stellar roster, featuring jazz legend Jonathan Butler, known primarily for his smooth jazz and R&B music and soulful vocals, K.O and Azana, alongside beloved local artists like Wave Rhyder, Omali Themba, and Ntate Stunna.

True to its name, APICA deeply embraces Lesotho’s heritage.

“It is not just about music. Econet APICA is a celebration of Lesotho’s rich cultural heritage, from outdoor adventure, nature exploration, and temporary sheltering in the wilderness,” emphasises Masoabi.

The Ramabanta location provides an immersive backdrop, allowing attendees to engage in hiking, horse riding excursions, and purchase locally crafted arts and souvenirs. This focus also provides a crucial platform for local talent.

“The festival serves as a platform for Lesotho’s artists to showcase their talent alongside internationally acclaimed musicians,” giving them vital exposure and opening doors for future opportunities.

Montoeli Moleli of Global Events also elaborates on the festival’s broader impact.

“Econet APICA has helped put Lesotho on the entertainment map by attracting visitors from outside the country,” he said.

“It strengthens the cultural scene by integrating various art forms—music, crafts, food, and adventure—into one holistic experience.”

Selecting the artists involves balancing audience demand, musical diversity, and thematic alignment, ensuring a fresh and engaging lineup each year.

Organising such a large-scale event requires meticulous planning and strong partnerships. “The festival is made possible through a strong partnership between Econet Telecom Lesotho and Global Events, along with other partners,” Moleli confirms, acknowledging the complexities of logistics, security, and hospitality in an outdoor setting.

Despite challenges like transportation and crowd management, “through strong partnerships and efficient planning, the festival continues to deliver an exceptional experience.”

Inclusivity is a core principle. The festival attracts a diverse crowd of music lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts engaged through various media channels.

“Affordable ticket pricing, varied entertainment options, and diverse artist selections ensure that the festival appeals to different groups,” Moleli noted, adding that the inclusion of local vendors ensures benefits ripple through the community. This approach has seen a noticeable shift towards more regional and international attendees, boosting Lesotho’s tourism.

Reflecting on past triumphs, Moleli recalls “iconic performances from top-tier artists such as the legendary Tšepo Tshola, Master KG, Selimo Thabane, and Kwesta,” moments that cement the festival’s reputation.

This year, attendees can expect similar high-energy sets from the announced stars, complemented by an enhanced focus on the outdoor and camping experience.

Looking ahead, sustainability and future growth are priorities. The festival promotes eco-friendly practices and supports local businesses, aiming to minimise its environmental footprint while maximising economic benefits.

Future plans include attracting more international visitors and integrating even more interactive Basotho cultural experiences.

Fusi Hlaoli

I am an IT officer by day, immersed in the world of technology, troubleshooting systems, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Now, my  passion lies in storytelling. I am a writer at heart, fascinated by the power of words to inform, engage, and inspire.