Millions of worshippers are expected to gather in Moria this Easter as Limpopo prepares for one of Africa’s largest religious pilgrimages, with authorities intensifying road safety operations. Picture Credit: Facebook
By Aisha Zardad
Polokwane — Limpopo is bracing for a major influx of worshippers this Easter, as millions are expected to converge on Moria, outside Polokwane, for one of the country’s most significant religious gatherings.
The annual pilgrimage, led by the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) and the St Engenas Zion Christian Church, is set to draw visitors from across South Africa and neighbouring countries, placing the province at the centre of one of the continent’s largest faith-based events.
Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba described the occasion as a time of unity and reflection, highlighting its broader cultural and spiritual importance.
The season, she said, “brings together families, friends and faith-based communities in celebration, prayer and renewal.”
“As the gateway to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, Limpopo remains a destination of cultural richness, spiritual significance, and natural beauty,” said Ramathuba.
She encouraged visitors to explore the province beyond the pilgrimage, supporting local businesses and experiencing its tourism offerings, while remaining mindful of safety throughout the busy period.
Ramathuba also extended well wishes to travellers, hoping for “a peaceful, safe, and spiritually enriching Easter.”
With the expected surge in movement, authorities have turned their focus to road safety, warning that long-distance travel and fatigue remain major risks.
“Fatigue remains one of the leading causes of road accidents. We encourage motorists to rest every two hours or after travelling 200 kilometres.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility that requires vigilance, discipline, and mutual respect,” the Premier said.
The province’s Department of Transport and Community Safety has confirmed that extensive safety measures are in place to manage the increased traffic volumes.
MEC Violet Mathye said the department is “fully prepared for the upcoming Easter travel period, with intensified law enforcement operations aimed at ensuring the safety of all road users across the province.”
Motorists have been urged to comply with road regulations, including adhering to speed limits, avoiding alcohol consumption, ensuring vehicles are roadworthy, and wearing seatbelts at all times.
Pedestrians have also been cautioned to remain alert, use designated crossings, and avoid busy roads, particularly after dark.
Authorities expect heavy congestion along key routes leading to Moria, especially with the movement of buses and minibuses transporting pilgrims.
“We expect significant movement of buses and minibuses on R71 from Polokwane towards Boyne and from Tzaneen direction, as well as on D4040 from the R37 turn off to ZCC St. Engenas via Maja.
“We also expect movement of buses on N1 from Beitbridge to Polokwane Direction and from N11 via R567 or D19 Matlala Road to Polokwane,” Mathye said.
She added that officials are aiming to replicate last year’s success, where no fatalities were recorded along the N1 during the Easter period, with plans to extend that outcome across more routes.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility, and through cooperation with law enforcement, we can save lives. No journey is worth a life—arrive alive.”
Mathye also encouraged visitors to enjoy the province responsibly, wishing them “a safe journey and a pleasant stay.”
