Mokorotlo

The design is believed to have been inspired by the conical mountain Mount Qiloane.

A similarly shaped hat, called a toedang,[5] was commonly worn by the Cape Malays, who are descendants of slaves from the East Indies.

[6][better source needed] The mokorotlo was likely adopted in the early 20th century, when chiefs began to wear the hat and began singing a song also known as the ‘Mokorotlo’ to garner support at village “Pitso”, which is a gathering.

[4] The Sotho display the mokorotlo in their homes, indicating that they uphold the customs and acknowledge their bonds with their Balimo.

The hat is an important part of Sotho cultural attire that is worn to reflect national identity and pride.