- George Letsalo moved to Moria for his health in 2019 but says high travel costs will stop his family’s visits.
- Bus operators say fuel price hikes are hurting the industry as thousands of people travel to Limpopo for religious gatherings.
George Letsalo* moved from his home to Moria in Limpopo in 2019 to find healing after being sick for a long time. The 69-year-old pensioner left his wife and children to serve the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) and work the land.
Every year, his family travels to join him for the pilgrimage. They have not missed a trip in 20 years. However, Letsalo said this will be the last time they come because travel has become too expensive.
The family usually saves R5,000 for the trip to cover bus fares, food and toiletries for three people. Last year they spent R5,700, which was more than they had planned. This year they
saved R6,000, but they cannot keep up with the rising costs.
“Maybe if one of my children gets a job this year then we will return next year,” Letsalo said.
More than 2,000 buses are taking people to Limpopo and nearby countries for the gathering.
Oliver Maponya, the president of the South African National Small Bus Operators Council, said Moria is the main destination. Most buses are coming from Mpumalanga, North West and Gauteng.
Maponya said the fuel price hike has made things difficult for bus owners. Many people booked their trips before the prices went up.
“Operators cannot go back to customers to adjust prices. They will have to absorb the costs,” Maponya said.
*The name of the pensioner has been changed to follow Zion Christian Church protocols.
Pictured above: Church members in Moria.
Image source: Flickr
