Lesotho is set to witness a landmark moment in both sport and social advocacy as the LCS Ground hosts a groundbreaking women’s football tournament on June 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2025.
Organised by DIFA Berea in collaboration with DIFA Maseru, the event aims to shine a spotlight on gender-based violence and human trafficking, using football as a powerful platform for change.
For the first time in the country’s history, a women’s football tournament has received substantial corporate backing, thanks to a generous M100 000 sponsorship from Blue Sky Air Conditioning.
The sponsorship is the largest of its kind for women’s football in Lesotho and is expected to set a new standard for support in the sport.
“This is more than a football tournament, it is a platform to educate, empower, and act against the social ills that continue to plague our communities,” said Lekhooa Thabaneng, President of DIFA Berea, at the launch event.
The sponsorship covers not only a sizable prize pool, but also full kits, six footballs per team, and boots for every participating player, ensuring all eight clubs are well-equipped and ready for the pitch.
The teams competing for glory include: Berea Ladies FC, Amazulu Ladies FC, Massive Ladies FC, Koalepe Ladies FC, Sekamaneng Young Stars Ladies FC, LDF Ladies FC, Khabisi Ladies FCandLCS Ladies FC.
The prize breakdown is equally impressive: M20 000 for the winners, M14 000 for second place, M9 000 for third, and M6 000 for fourth. Individual awards include Player of the Tournament (M2 000), Top Goal Scorer (M1 500), Goalkeeper of the Tournament (M1 000), and Coach of the Tournament (M1 000).
Paul Ncheke, representing the DIFA Maseru President, praised the initiative and urged others to follow suit.
“We are proud to stand alongside DIFA Berea in supporting this initiative. We applaud Blue Sky Air Conditioning for leading the way, and we encourage other stakeholders to follow suit in supporting both sport and social progress,” he said.
Beyond the action on the pitch, the tournament will host awareness campaigns and educational sessions, offering attendees crucial information and resources to combat gender-based violence and human trafficking, persistent issues affecting communities across Lesotho.
The tournament kicks off with Group A matches on June 7:
- LDF Ladies FC vs Massive Ladies FC
- Khabisi Ladies FC vs Amazulu Ladies FC
Group B takes to the field on June 8:
- Berea Ladies FC vs Sekamaneng Young Stars Ladies FC
- Koalepe Ladies FC vs LCS Ladies FC
Organisers are calling on the public to turn out in numbers and support not just the football, but the fight for social justice. The event promises thrilling football, community dialogue, and a bold step forward for women’s sport in Lesotho.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
