Makananelo Manamolela
HUNDREDS flocked to Maseru Club Grounds on Friday and yesterday for the Lesotho Wine Festival 2025, an annual celebration of wine, heritage, and local entrepreneurship.
The event brought together producers of sparkling wines, fashion designers, storytellers, and artisans showcasing heritage items such as Aranda blankets.
The organiser, Paulo De Freitas, manager at Station Offsales, said day one is just the beginning of a larger festival aimed at promoting “bubbles” — sparkling wines.
“The most important thing is that we have dedicated a big section for heritage and crafts from local producers. We want to show the world the amazing talent here and use the wine festival as a platform for it. This year we are hosting 280 wines. We are thrilled to host this event in Maseru. This edition is our biggest yet, with over 50 arts and culture producers,” he said.
He also said while the journey had its challenges, the organisers learned and grew through each edition.
First National Bank, the festival’s main sponsor, expressed pride in supporting the event.
“We are excited to see the event grow. It started in a small venue with just 40 people, then 80, and eventually up to 1,000. This year, we can comfortably host around 2,000 attendees, allowing them to freely enjoy the entertainment and exhibits,” FNB marketing manager, Lerato Mohale, said.
He added that the bank is proud to provide a platform for small businesses and local artisans to showcase their products and reach a wider audience.
Among the entrepreneurs present was Alliance Française de Maseru, showcasing their 200 Years Basotho Celebration blankets. Director Elisabeth Douillet explained,
“We came to promote this blanket, which celebrates the story of friendship between France and Lesotho. This is our first time participating, and we are delighted to be part of this event. We hope to expand our partnerships with local liquor shops through the festival.”
Bon Courage Estate, known for quality wines, also participated, presenting their signature blush wine. National sales manager Ms. Michelle Elford shared the history of the wine:
“Our blush wine was first produced in 1993, over 30 years ago. The owner, Andre Bruwer, went to California, won a competition there, and noticed that all pink wines were called ‘blush.’ When he returned to South Africa, he decided to name all our sparkling wines ‘blush sparkling wines.’”
The festival continues through the weekend, offering attendees a blend of wine tasting, cultural exhibits, storytelling, and fashion, highlighting the richness of Lesotho’s heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.