With the clock ticking toward Lesotho’s 60th Independence Day in 2026, the Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, Motlatsi Maqelepo, has revealed that Setsoto Stadium is being lined up to host the milestone event, and that the government is open to outsourcing contractors to ensure the stadium is ready on time.
Speaking at a media briefing yesterday at Setsoto Stadium, Maqelepo said the government is committed to delivering a fully revamped stadium capable of hosting large-scale events and meeting international standards.
The press briefing showcased progress on the stadium’s revamp, specifically the ongoing resurfacing of the pitch, which marks the first step in preparation for the installation of artificial turf.
“We have a very limited time frame, and we have started with the resurfacing of the field to prepare for the installation of the artificial grass. The capacity will be 25,000 plus from 14,000 after upgrade before October 4, 2026, when Lesotho will celebrate 60 years of independence,” said Maqelepo.
In light of the tight schedule, the Minister emphasised that the government is considering hiring foreign contractors to ensure the project meets its deadline.
“We must work hard so that when the time comes, the stadium is completed because we want Lesotho to have a stadium that is as high-quality as other countries. We have to let go of the stigma that has now become our tradition in Lesotho. With the short time frame, I believe there are companies capable of delivering this work, even if we outsource them and they subcontract our local companies,” he said.
According to Maqelepo, Adel Grass, the company responsible for the turf installation, is set to manufacture the artificial turf from April 26 to June 6 this year. The current resurfacing is laying the groundwork for that phase, with M7 million allocated for the turf component.
The broader renovation will involve a second company that will handle other infrastructure improvements, including dressing rooms and facilities flagged by FIFA.
He further said the upcoming renovations are estimated at M85 million and aim to address these issues by upgrading essential facilities. This initiative not only aspires to restore the stadium’s international hosting capabilities but also to boost local tourism and community engagement.
“The government has advised us to do a full revamping of the stadium instead of the renovations. They have decided to include us in the government’s policy whereby Setsoto Stadium was mentioned during the 2025/26 Budget Speech as a way to show that they have decided to allocate funds for the full revamping and upgrade of the stadium,” Maqelepo said.
However, he acknowledged that the M91 million ceiling budget for sports remains insufficient to address all the needs of the sector. He committed to more transparency, stating that the Ministry intends to release full costs of the refurbishment by July 2025.
“These initiatives signal the government’s commitment to improving sports facilities, ensuring athletes have access to world-class surfaces, and enhancing the country’s ability to host international events. The installation of artificial turf is expected to make the stadium more durable and adaptable for multiple sporting activities.”
For years, Setsoto Stadium has remained in a state of disrepair, banned by both FIFA and CAF from hosting international matches. The result has been a forced exile for the national team, Likuena, who have had to play their home fixtures outside the country.
The stadium’s prolonged decline has long been a symbol of broken promises and chronic delays. Despite numerous pledges by previous administrations, little progress had been made, until now.
Maqelepo’s willingness to bring in external contractors, while ensuring local companies still benefit through subcontracts, could mark a turning point in finally delivering on a promise Basotho have heard for years.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports.
Started working at Newsday in 2021.
has an Associate Degree in Journalism and Media.
