In the rural community of Mahobong in Leribe District, Lesotho, CLC Team The Green Buffaloes is showing that better community health can begin with something as simple as getting people moving together. Through their Sport for All initiative, "Physical Activity Is a Cure! (Boithapollo ke Pheko!)", the team reached 264 participants aged 5 to 75, including 185 women and girls, 79 men and boys.
The project was developed in response to growing concerns about sedentary lifestyles, increasing dependence on electronic devices, and declining participation in physical activity. Led by the TAFISA-trained Community Leadership Course (CLC) graduates, the team worked with community leaders, health professionals, schools, the police, local businesses, and volunteers. Together they created accessible and enjoyable opportunities for everyone to take part, with the aim of building a lasting culture of active living in Mahobong.
Community mobilisation began months before the main event through village meetings, awareness campaigns, posters, flyers, and social media, which ensured widespread local engagement. Volunteers received leadership and facilitation training before delivering an inclusive Sport for All Community Fun Festival in April 2026. The festival featured tug of war, hula hoop challenges, volleyball, skipping rope, recreational games, fitness activities, and traditional community exercises. Every activity emphasised communication, teamwork, inclusion, and enjoyment, so participants of different ages and abilities could interact with and support one another.
The project produced encouraging results across the community. Participation at the festival exceeded expectations, and more residents have begun to make physical activity part of their daily lives. Community members also reported a stronger willingness to volunteer for physically demanding community service because they now see that this work benefits their own health and wellbeing.
A key sign of changing habits has been the rise of social walks. Residents who once walked on their own now walk together, in at least three regular groups of up to ten people each. These walks have created new friendships and strengthened existing relationships. They have also encouraged more people to see physical activity as an enjoyable shared experience rather than an individual pursuit.
Some of the strongest evidence of impact came through personal stories. One volunteer described how her cousin recovered remarkably well after surgery, and medical staff attributed the speedy healing to her long-term commitment to regular physical activity. An 84-year-old participant proudly shared that she can now stand up on her own and even skip rope since joining the programme. Teachers observed greater confidence, stronger school spirit, and emerging sporting talent among students who had previously been reluctant to take part.
Looking ahead, The Green Buffaloes are focused on keeping the movement going well beyond the initial project. Trained volunteers will continue to lead regular activities with support from Mahobong Health Centre, local schools, community leaders, and local businesses. The team also hopes to attract new partners to expand resources and bring the benefits of Sport for All to neighbouring communities.
The project demonstrates how inclusive, community-led physical activity can improve health and wellbeing while strengthening relationships and bringing people of all ages together. In doing so, it strongly reflects TAFISA's mission of creating a better and healthier world through Sport for All. By empowering local volunteers and placing ownership in the hands of the community, The Green Buffaloes are laying the foundations for healthier, more active, and more connected lives across Mahobong.
By Team The Green Buffaloes: Tebello Matsoso, Kahlolo Mokhanese, Mbulelo Mochochoko, Piet Lemao, Mkwananzi Heshepe, and Tjama Mokoma
