Thousands of Buses Expected to Descend on Moria as ZCC Pilgrimage Begins
POLOKWANE – Motorists travelling on major routes in Limpopo have been warned to brace for heavy traffic this weekend as more than 4 000 buses are expected to converge on Moria for the annual Zion Christian Church (ZCC pilgrimage).
The pilgrimage, taking place from Friday, 4 September, to Sunday, 6 September 2026, is expected to draw thousands of congregants from across South Africa, as well as neighbouring Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety says traffic volumes are expected to increase significantly from Friday night, with buses expected to start moving towards Moria after 23h00.
The annual gathering, held under the leadership of ZCC leader His Grace Bishop Dr B.E. Lekganyane, will reach its climax on Sunday during the church’s consecration service.
Political party leaders, senior traditional leaders, business leaders and other VIPs are expected to attend the Sunday proceedings.
Authorities have identified several major routes likely to experience congestion as pilgrims make their way to and from Moria.
These include the N1 northbound from Gauteng and southbound from Musina and Makhado, as well as the N11 from Groblersbridge, which connects to the R567 towards Polokwane or the D19 Matlala Road.
The N1 southbound from Beitbridge towards Polokwane is also expected to carry increased traffic.
Motorists using the R37, D4040 and the N1 Bypass towards the R71 have also been warned to expect congestion, particularly from Friday and again on Sunday afternoon when thousands of pilgrims begin their return journeys.
The department says provincial traffic officers will be deployed in full force along major routes leading to Moria to manage traffic flow and enforce road safety regulations.
Motorists have been urged to plan their journeys carefully, allow extra travelling time and exercise patience on the roads.
The department has also appealed to drivers to avoid speeding, ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and obey instructions from traffic officers and other law enforcement agencies.
With thousands of buses, midibuses and minibuses expected on the province’s roads, authorities are urging motorists to remain vigilant and exercise caution throughout the weekend.
The department says the public’s cooperation will be critical in ensuring that the massive movement of pilgrims takes place safely and with minimal disruption to other road users.
