By Neo Kolane
Two women, Khotsofalang Jobo and Paballo Tlhaole, founded Earth-Lovers Hiking Club in 2014 following the annual Moshoeshoe Walk which they found was not enough to remember the nation’s founder.
Earth-Lovers Hiking Club is a non-profit making social group. Its main aim is to visit Lesotho tourism sites, discover hiking trails and promote sustainable development.
The club’s primary goal is to promote hiking and adventure.
Talking to theReporter this week, the president of the club, Liteboho Leketa, said it was registered in February 2018.
Describing the structure of the club, Leketa said it is administered by the executive committee headed by the president and is elected biannually.
The club currently has 40 members and around 200 friends.
Leketa said they have hiked in different parts of Lesotho.
“The club members and its friends hiked Roma to Ha Lebamang, Metolong to Kome caves, Sehlabeng sa Butha-Buthe, Ha Makhakhe to Malealea Lodge, Bokong Nature Reserve to Tṧehlanyane Nature Reserve and from Matsieng to Thaba-Telle.
“In November 2021 we hiked from Semonkong to Marakabei which was our ultimate event. It was tough but enjoyable and we did some camping as well,” he said.
Leteka urged hiking activities reduce tension and anxiety and the risk of heart disease.
“It helps reduces chances of getting arthritis and increases good sleep while also controlling body weight. It also enhances bone density,” he warned.
Leteka also said the club members hike responsibly because at the end of the day they pay back to the communities living along their routes.
“For instance, during the hike from Semonkong to Marakabei we paid M6 800 to villagers from whom we had hired utensils for use.
“While during the Matsieng to Thaba Telle, we donated sanitary pads to girls at one of the local schools,” Leteka said.
He said next week the club members and its friends will be hiking to Ribaneng. Some international hikers are expected to join the exercise, he added.
Liteboho Leteka can be contacted on (+266) 62113111.
