Mohalenyane Phakela

ALL is set for the second annual Maletsunyane Braai Festival which will be held in the vicinity of the majestic Maletsunyane Falls in Semonkong from Saturday to Sunday.

One of the organisers, Bokang Kheekhe this week told the Weekender that all was in place and the road had also been refurbished ahead of the “biggest braai festival”.

“We have everything in place for the festival as the Ministry of Local Government on Monday helped us by fixing the road which will enable small cars to safely reach the venue,” Kheekhe said.

“By Thursday (today) everything we need will be in Semonkong and what will be left is for people to arrive on Saturday for the party. We have also checked the weather and noticed that the rain will be at bay so people don’t have to worry but even if it rains we believe it will be moderate and after all it is summer so it will not spoil the fun.

“Unlike last year when people were braaing and dancing near their cars, this year we have separated the parking, camping and festival sites but people should not worry about the safety of their cars. We also have a proper sound system unlike last year when it could not be heard by everyone.”

On Saturday the event will be a ‘chilled’ braai day starting at 10am with games such as paintball, quad-biking and horse riding. In the evening at about 7pm, the musical festival will commence featuring various local artistes such as multi award-winner Selimo Thabane, Leomile, Juvy, Nirex, L-Tore, Mega Hertz, Robocop and MIP alongside DJs Thizozo, Kopper, Buff Jnr, AfroDJ, Deepee, BoxFr3sh, Bootz, Vesta, Zagro DJs, Lym and Lilaphalapha.

Revellers can either camp or sleep at community members’ houses (homestays) for a fee.

Maletsunyane Braai Festival was first held last year by OTB Exclusive Events Management and it attracted scores of revellers. It started as an idea of bringing people together for a braai at an iconic place in the country.

The festival also contributes towards the promotion of tourism in that it is held near the famous Maletsunyane Falls – the longest commercially operated single-drop abseil in the world, descending 204 metres to the bottom of the gorge.

Apart from Vodacom Lesotho, this year the organisers have partnered with the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation and Back To The Woods, the Lesotho Mounted Police and the community of Semonkong.

The first instalment was entrance free and lasting only a day. This time there will be an entrance charge which the organisers say is to enable them to cater for logistics such as lighting, sound, toilets, showers as well as paying community members who will be employed at the festival (at least 100 people).

Kheekhe further said they are working closely with one, Khabiso Nkune, who has organised a bus for people from Maseru to Maletsunyane.

He also said that they were opposed to the culture of drinking and driving, moreso because the route to Semonkong can be dangerous.

“People wishing to camp can bring their own tents or rent them from Back To The Woods as well as Khabiso Nkune at the event. We are expecting between 2 500 and 4 000 people and we believe that is the number we can manage,” he said.

Mohalenyane Phakela

THE dream of watching Idols South Africa (IdolsSA) live which seemed so farfetched was made possible for Basotho this past weekend when DStv Lesotho took six of its customers to the grand finale of the much-loved musical contest at Carnival City in Johannesburg, South Africa on Sunday.

It was fun, leisure and comfort for the six lucky Compact and Premium subscribers who were pampered by DStv Lesotho from the moment they arrived at Moshoeshoe I International Airport on Saturday for their flight to South Africa.

They were accommodated in a top notch hotel throughout their stay in Johannesburg.

Never have the lucky customers experienced such hand-holding and pampering by the attentive DStv Lesotho staff who were always close by to ensure they were not only served with the best meals and their favourite drinks  at a nearby top restaurant.

They also had the opportunity to savour the first class entertainment at Carnival City, snapping away with their phones and cameras to ensure the memorable episode will always remain to be seen by posterity.

DStv is a division of MultiChoice – a video entertainment and internet company with a strong presence in South Africa and across the African continent, including Lesotho. MultiChoice also offers subscriptions to GoTV.

IdolsSA season 13 episodes were broadcast live on Mzansi Magic – DStv Channel 161 (which is only accessible to Compact and Premium subscribers) – every Sunday since July 9 this year. The finale was also broadcast live with the DStv Lesotho customers getting messages during and after the show from their family and friends back in Lesotho saying they saw them on the television.

The six customers had front row seats for the IdolsSA final which was a shootout between Paxton Fielies (16) and Mthokozisi Ndaba (25).

Paxton won despite the huge support for Mthokozisi. And if any of the lucky six were disappointed by that result, DStv more than comforted them by hosting an a fun-filled after-party which started at one of the restaurants at Carnival City and ended at the hotel in the wee hours of Monday.

In addition, the DStv Lesotho customers enjoyed performances by household South African acts such as Boom Shaka, TKZee, Somizi, Heavy K, DJ Tira, Destruction Boys, Naak Musiq, Kwesta, Donald and Kid X.

Speaking to the Weekender this week, the customers had nothing but praise and gratitude to DStv Lesotho for giving them an experience of a lifetime.

“When I first saw the advert on Facebook, I thought it was one of those social media pranks but then I also had that ‘what if its real’ mentality hence I entered the contest,” one of the customers Ratselanyane Rantuba said.

“It became believable when we boarded a plane at Moshoeshoe I and during our stay in Johannesburg DStv ensured that we were well-taken care of.

“It was a life changing experience as we were not only able to watch Idols live but it was also the first time being on the plane for some of us.”

Another customer, Grace Ramokoatsi urged Basotho to subscribe to DStv Compact and Premium to enjoy benefits such as those they had experienced.

“As an IdolsSA follower, I always ensured I never missed an episode every Sunday on Mzansi Magic, but this experience of being able to see the show live and how it is produced topped it all.

“I would like to thank DStv Lesotho for the opportunity and further urge Basotho who follow IdolsSA to keep on subscribing to Compact and Premium so that they can one day be treated like us,” she said.

Mohalenyane Phakela

GOSPEL music lovers are expected to fill up Setsoto Stadium in Maseru on Saturday for night of praise and worship that will be headlined by prominent local and South African Gospel stars.

Organised by Cube Events, the Lesotho Gospel Festival will feature the likes of South Africa’s Lion of Judah hit-maker, Lebo Sekgobela and Ntokozo Mbambo of the Jehova is Your Name fame. The duo will be accompanied by Dr Tumi, whose major hit is No other God. They will be joined by local acts such as Yadah Praise Family, Mookho Moqhali, Tehilla Africa and JC Crew. Comedian, Lilaphalapha, is also expected to tickle the crowd.

Dr Tumi posted a video on Cube Events’ Facebook page on Monday promising a blessed night of “lifting the name of Jesus” and Ntokozo also posted to state her excitement at the prospect of returning to Lesotho. She also said that she was looking forward to meeting her fans at Maseru Mall before the show on Saturday.

Speaking to the Weekender this week, Cube Events’ Benedict “Benny B” Makhetha said that all was in place and the nation should expect a night of serious and entertaining praise and worship music.

“Preparations and logistics for Lesotho Gospel Festival are in place and all that is left is for people to fill up Setsoto Stadium,” Makhetha said.

“The South African trio will be arriving on Saturday morning and will have a meet and greet session at Maseru Mall from 11am to 2pm where fans who possess their latest albums will get the opportunity to also take pictures with them.

“The actual show will start at 5pm and people can expect to be blessed and entertained by a combination of praise and worship performances that will compel the crowd to showcase its dance moves.”

He said it had always Dr Tumi’s wish to come to Lesotho while Sekgobela and Ntokozo had been well received on their last visits. He said, it was therefore, befitting to bring the trio to perform as gospel music was often side-lined in favour of secular entertainment.

“The Lesotho Gospel Festival is more than just a music show but aimed at promoting arts too so we will be having stalls for our local crafters to sell their products to the revellers including South Africans who will be attending the show.

“We are also pleased to contribute to the revival of the Yadah Praise Family whose last performance was at our Summer Gospel Festival last year,” he said.

Mohalenyane Phakela

THE government regards the Maletsunyane Braai Festival as one of the drivers of tourism in the country and will render its full support to the event, a senior government official has said.

The second edition of the annual braai fiesta which was held on Saturday and Sunday in Semonkong, lived up to its billing drawing scores of revellers to braai in the vicinity of the world-famous Maletsunyane Falls.

The crowds began flocking much earlier than the 10am starting time on Saturday- proving they could not wait for the fun and festivities to begin.

The weather also seemed to have been primed not to disappoint as the bright sunshine was tempered by the moderate wind which swept across the area to provide a cooling breeze.

Revellers down their meat with copious amounts of their favourite beverages while the DJs kept the party going with up-tempo beats.

Patrons also took pictures against the backdrop of the enchanting spectacle of the Maletsunyane Falls, which they posted to various social media platforms.

The Maletsunyane Braai Festival was first held last year by OTB Exclusive Events Management and this year, they partnered with Back To The Woods, Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation and the local community to ensure and even bigger event.

Also in attendance were the Minster of Social Development ‘Matebatso Doti, Minister of Gender, Youth, Sports and Recreation, Kabelo Mafura as well as the Principal Secretary of Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Culture (MTEC) Motena Tṧolo.

Tṧolo told the Weekender on Saturday that such events helped to increase the popularity of the Maletsunyane Falls.

“When the festival was first held last year, the idea was for friends to get together and braai meat but due to the magnitude of people who showed interest, the organisers decided to add it to the national tourism calendar,” Tṧolo said.

“It is through this event that more people got to know and fall in love with the Maletsunyane Falls so the government, through the Tourism ministry fully supports the initiative.”

The local community also benefitted from the festival either through part time jobs cleaning the area and providing security, or by renting out horses for rides and photo sessions.

One of the community members, Kabelo Mosito, who was employed as a security guard for the festival, told this publication that they fully supported the festival.

He called on the government to erect a security fence around the area so that they could be employed on a full-time basis.

“The festival has given us jobs while others are making money by renting out their horses and selling crafts. It is however, a pity that it is held once a year, leaving us without jobs afterwards.

“The area is not secured and people can come as they please without any benefits for the community. The only way we earn anything is if the Semonkong Lodge guests need horses to visit the Falls.

“If only government could erect a fence around the area so that people can pay to enter, then we can be employed on full time basis. Regulating the influx of people who come here will also enable us to know the peak times and the kind of products we can sell to tourists,” Mosito said.

In response, Tṧolo said her ministry had already contracted a company to secure the area.

Mohalenyane Phakela

THE government of Lesotho says while it has nothing against raunchy South African dancer, Zodwa WaBantu, visiting Lesotho, the country’s public indecency law forbids her from doing nude performances.

Zodwa is a socialite and dancer whose sexually provocative dressing and dancing has won her international acclaim. She became an internet sensation when she attended the Vodacom Durban July (2017) party in South Africa wearing a black figure-hugging dress that had a high side slit which showed that she was not wearing any underwear.

Word has it that she shows off her private parts while dancing and this has made her a sought after artiste in several countries in southern Africa.

Local entertainment outfit, Lifestyle Xperience had billed the controversial Durban dancer to entertain revellers in Maseru on 22 December this year and there has since been a lot of hype about the event.

However, the government powered cold water on plans to bring her to Lesotho after parliamentarians on Monday reached a consensus that her performance would be against the law.

Lesotho becomes the second country to ban the dancer’s performance as Zimbabwe also banned her in August.

Speaking to the Weekender this week, Communications minister and government spokesperson, Joang Molapo, said parliament had not banned Zodwa from coming but only barred her nude performances.

“There is no secret about the kind of behaviour the South African dancer showcases during her performances and like other countries, Lesotho has a law against public indecency hence we had to act to stop the show,” Molapo said this week.

“We have not banned her (Zodwa) from visiting Lesotho on a social call. She can come anytime she feels like but we will not allow her to break the law by showcasing her private parts.”

Mr Molapo also said they had written to the organisers of the show to inform them about parliament decision, adding they should have known that Lesotho prohibits public indecency.

He said the government would therefore, not be liable for any costs they had incurred.

Meanwhile, the show organiser, Montoeli ‘Moleli told the Weekender on Tuesday that he had not received any communication from the government and he was therefore in the dark as to what prompted the decision to stop the show.

“I first learned that there was a radio programme held on 17 November on the topic of Zodwa coming to Lesotho.

“On Monday I further learnt that the parliament had spent the whole day discussing the issue and that a letter had been addressed to me to stop the show.

“Unfortunately, I did not learn any of these issues formally but through the grapevine and I have not yet received any letter so I can neither comment nor act as I do not know the contents of the letter,” ‘Moleli said.

Mohalenyane Phakela

THE Blankets and Bling (BBling) lifestyle event which was held in Khorong in Thaba Bosiu on Saturday and Sunday was a resounding success in showcasing the cultural aspects of Basotho through the fashion, cuisine and games.

The event was first held in 2009 by Emotiv PR and Productions Kangfong. It was last held in 2014 before the organisers gave in to “popular demand” to relaunch it this year.

This year’s edition was held under the theme “U mang Mosotho (who is a Mosotho?”

Some of the patrons at Blankets and Bling

This is reminiscent of BBling’s main sponsor, Alliance Insurance’s U Mang campaign.

Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC) Chief Executive Officer, Mpaiphele Maqutu, endorsed the event.

“We have endorsed the Blankets and Bling concept and in our view, the concept is consistent with our (LTDC) vision to promote and stimulate domestic tourism through events like this which enhance social cohesion and encourage Basotho to do tourism,” Maqutu said.

“We are confident Blankets and Bling will go a long way towards the promotion of Sesotho culture and sustainable tourism in Lesotho.”

The female patrons outshined their male counterparts with their elegant fashion styles which had strong traditional influences.

There were also music performances from local acts such as Hypnotic Souls, Bible Verse, Qekha and OG S’Killz, with DJs Hobbs, The Hitman, Mr Maps, Nkonyane Pitso, Mekonko, Shaixstacy Agent K and Zagro DJs. Meloh was the only female artist on the line-up.

Famo legend, Honye, was given a rousing reception for his performance of Alliance Insurance’s theme song. The entire Alliance staff that was in attendance jumped onto the stage and showered him with gifts.

Cultural games such as Mokou, Skipin and Mokoro (target) were a major highlight of the event, particularly the Morabaraba tournament which attracted most people. The inflatable soccer poles sponsored by Maluti Mountain Brewery were very popular with children.

The local community also benefitted through the sale of traditional food and beer.

Mohalenyane Phakela

Alliance Française de Maseru, will bring their 2017 calendar of events to an end with various activities including a concert to be headlined by Morena Leraba and Johannesburg-based BLK JKS today at Ouh La La Café.

Morena Leraba is a musician and shepherd from of Ha-Mojela in Mafeteng district, located south of Lesotho’s capital Maseru.

His lyrics are deeply rooted in Lesotho’s traditional music mostly influenced by the Famo genre.

BLK JKS (pronounced Black Jacks) are a South African rock band from Johannesburg, formed in 2000. Having toured the United States of America and several European countries, the band is currently working on its second album which will feature Morena Leraba. The stage will be opened by The Frequent Traveller’s Programme from Germany.

Alliance Française has been promoting French as well as local culture in Lesotho since 1981, and throughout the years it has formed partnerships with Sotho organisations and artistes, opening doors to different arts and cultural initiatives by Basotho and the French community in Lesotho.

The concert is part of the celebrations which started last Friday with an exhibition by photographers, Meri Hyöky and Selebalo Molefe. The exhibition will run till 15 December when the offices close for Christmas.

The exhibition explores and celebrates craftsmanship and people who work with their hands in modern-day Lesotho. Featured in the exhibition are photographs of sheet metal workers, woodworkers, chefs, hairstylists and bricklayers.

The Christmas market featuring various Lesotho made products also started on Monday at Alliance Française premises and will run till Saturday. On Tuesday there was also a poetry open mic contest featuring several local wordsmiths.

Tomorrow filmmaker Teboho Edkins together with the Swiss movie students will host an interactive discussion with local film practitioners on movies and how they are made.

Mohalenyane Phakela

THE inaugural Lesotho Gospel Festival at Setsoto Stadium lived up to its billing as Christians and other revellers braved the chilly conditions to turn the Saturday evening into a memorable night of praise and worship.

Organised by Cube Events, the event was tailored for Gospel music lovers as they are often neglected by promoters who often organise secular shows during the festive season.

The ladies had their blankets and fleeces while the men had their heavy jackets to ensure that no weather fashioned against them would stop them from attending the show.

Due to the rain showers and windy weather, the show start slightly later than the scheduled 5pm time there were minor hiccups with the sound as each act took its time to tune the settings to their convenience when it was their time to perform.

If this was a concern, it certainly did not show on the part of the audience, thanks to the comedy duo of Lilaphalapha and South Africa hailing, Tieho Khakhau, who kept them tickled with their Christian-themed jokes in between performances.

They also made fun of those who had just performed.

Locals, Rorisang Motsamai and Tsie were the first to perform in succession before Jerry Madubela and Living Waters also wowed the audiences.

The Semphethenyane ensemble, Tehilla Africa, also gave a super-charged performance which led many to mistake them for one of the top South African groups.

Sentṧo also came on stage and belted out his hit single, Mohau, to an appreciative audience.

The South African performances were opened by former Joyous Celebration member Ntokozo Mbambo who defied the cold breeze with her blouse.

Even before her performance as she mounted the stage, the crowd gathered at the edge of the stage and jostled to take selfies with the Jehova is Your Name hit-maker.

The crowd joined in her midnight performance by singing along and waving in the air, very much like congregants do in worship sessions in church.

Fellow South Africans, Dr Tumi and Lebo Sekgobela played their part in making the whole show a truly memorable Gospel experience with their touching hymns.

The performances were preceded by an address by the Minister of Small Businesses, Cooperatives and Marketing, Chalale Phori, who described Christianity as one of the pillars of Basotho hence the government presence which also included Education and Training minister, Mokhele Moletsane and Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Mpaiphele Maqutu.

“It is with great honour that I stand here on behalf of the government to say that we are happy to support the show which does not entertain naked performers,” Mr Phori said.

“The founder of this nation, King Moshoeshoe I, allowed missionaries into Lesotho to introduce Christianity and we believe he is happy where he is watching that we are still holding on to (Jesus) Christ through events of this nature,” he said.

Mohalenyane Phakela

DANCEHALL and Reggae artiste, Sensi Rankings, has bemoaned the reluctance of local promoters to engage artistes in his genre, saying they are only taken seriously in other countries where they get booked for shows.

Sensi Rankings’ comments come in the wake of his scheduled appearance at the Africa Unite Reggae Family Concert which will be held on Saturday at the Ben Marais Hall in Rustenburg, South Africa.

He is expected to share the stage with popular acts such as Malawians, Gemini Major and Lucius Banda, Zimbabweans, Buffalo Souljah and Winky D as well as South Africans that include Sanchez Africa, Tidal Waves, Fanta Jozi, Bongo Riot, L Tidute, Don Franco, Don Royal, Empress Pro, Empress Supreme, Naffy Dread, Don & Greg, Dj Nyati, DJ Toto, Blazah I, Thuli Thulz & Larry T, One Love Movement, Lavado, Gazavin,  Lawgkal, Jah B, Blakka Yut, Ras Iyets and Wiseman.

The Africa Unite Reggae Family Concert, which is being held for the second time, is organised by Bantu Media SA in Association with Powertainment Reggae Sound and Rastafari United Front to cater for Dancehall and Reggae lovers.

Speaking to the Weekender this week, Rankings said that he looked forward to picking from where he left off while residing in South Africa in 2010.

“While in Johannesburg back then, I worked with artistes such as Mapaputsi, Jah Seed and Junior from Boom Shaka but I could not establish myself due to the fact that I did not have South African identity documents,” Rankings said, adding he decided to return home in 2014.

“I had already made a name for myself so this booking will afford me the opportunity to show people that that I am better than before.

“As Lesotho artistes, we get overwhelmed when booked in other countries because those promoters treat us like any other professional artiste on the line-up. This is something I cannot say about those who host events here at home as they only start appreciating us once they realise we are recognised elsewhere.”

The 32-year-old musician joined the music industry in 2005 as a gospel singer under Yadah Praise Family which he left in 2007. In 2008 he enrolled in a two year vocals and percussions programme at Creare International Arts School in Bloemfontein, South Africa before moving to Johannesburg to seek greener pastures.

He opened the stage for Sizzla at 4Fordy in September 2015 and it is said the Jamaican star was so impressed with him that he wanted to sign him.

However, the deal never materialised, reportedly due to miscommunication with Sizzla’s agents who are based in South Africa.

He said international events such as the Saturday show provided a perfect platform “to foster working relations with artistes from other countries so I am going to give the performance my all as someone may fall in love with my craft and collaborate with me”.

“I am mostly looking forward to meeting Gemini Major because I like the way he presents his sound and on top of that he is also a producer and I am keeping my fingers crossed that something will come up,” he said.

Mohalenyane Phakela

WITH schools already closed and most companies breaking off tomorrow for the Christmas holidays, the mid-December weekend is jam-packed with activities which will leave revellers spoilt for choice.

DIRT MOUTH

All roads lead to Cuban Linx club in Maseru for tonight’s lyrical battle between Khubetsoana-born Verbal Kingpin and Ha Hoohlo’s T.U.R.K. There is a M10 000 prize for the winner of this final edition of the monthly Dirt Mouth contests for 2017. The June edition winner OG S’killz will take on Phizzy Khor in the Undercut category which carries a M5 000 winner’s purse.

There will be supporting performances by the likes of T Mech, Iso, Nirex, L-Tore, Nuch, Fatal Verb, Lyrical Potheads, Kot Inferno, Olive Branch and Moddaw as well as DJs Osmic, Dave Postah, NINE24, Trybz, Konsept and Da Soulvince. South African rapper Shane Eagle is also billed to grace the event.

FRIDAY

MACHANKURA FRIDAY

Club 4Fordy in Khubetsoana will host the money spenders’ party dubbed Machankura Friday. The likes of DJ King, Dave Postah, Konsept, Mo Tabz and Osmic are all set to perform at the event.

MASERU SUMMER FEST

The much anticipated Maseru Summer Fest is expected to fill up Setsoto Stadium much like the Vodacom Summer Feva. The Maseru Summer Fest boasts a gigantic line-up of South African and local heavyweights who will entertain patrons till the following morning. Hailing from South Africa are DJ Tira, Destruction Boys, Lady Zamar, Emtee, A-Reece, Naak Musiq, Tipcee, Sdutlanoma1000, Lasauce, Sjava, DJ Micks, Zanda, Dr Moruti, DJ SK and DJ Mlungu. Local acts include Vesta, Tshepzadj, Mekonko, Mega Hertz, Linah, Osmic, Keshy, Rochesta, NINE24, Black T, Lym, Zagro DJs, Trybz, Konsept, KTA Kings, L-Tore, Linkeng, Pablo DJ, Kaytee Fresh and Monyasedj with MCs Lilaphalapha, Kiva and Mavele.

SATURDAY

ABSOLUT NITE

Cuban Linx in Maseru will host the second edition of its Absolut Nites which are sponsored by Absolut Vodka. Behind the decks will be NINE24, Trybz, MSL, Da Starr, Smooth, Katz, The A-Supreme and Konsept.

90s HOUSE PARTY

The 90s themed party will be held at Music Mansion in Maseru West. There will be performances by Smooth, Lobby, Katz, Boxfresh, Jacky, 2Zero, Addilyx.

NALA SOCIAL MARKET

The Nala Project Community Market will run till Sunday. Activities will include bike tours, games and face paintings. The crafts market will have leatherworks, jewellery, accessories and clothing. The primary purpose of the initiative is to provide a platform for the public to access locally produced goods and fresh produce, as well as local talent and initiatives. The secondary purpose is to provide an avenue for local small producers/ businesses to generate income and encourage self-employment.

SUNDAY

PICNIC IN THE NORTH

South African entertainment outfit, Shaxe Khumalo Events and Unknown, will host a lifestyle party at Manthabiseng Convention Centre in Maseru. It will feature performances from OFM’s Shaxe Khumalo, Mekonko, Pablodj, Katz, Smooth, Tshepzadj, Le Goody, Immo, Tiger, Blackman, Trybz, Afrodj, Boxfresh, MSL, Konsept, Lobby, Kopper, L-Tore, Vesta, Sech, NINE24, Lets Chill, The A-Supreme, Gama and Thizozo.

Mohalenyane Phakela and Tokelo Rasephei

VOLUMES two and three of the Moshoeshoe: The Mountain Kingdom documentary is finally ready for the market after a two year wait that was caused by funding challenges.

The three-part documentary chronicles the founding of the Basotho nation by King Moshoeshoe I in the 19^th century when he brought together various tribes from different parts of southern Africa until his death. It also showcases the evolution of Lesotho since his death.

The film was produced by Moroka-Pula Productions and Phokeng Communications under the stewardship of Kalosi Ramakhula and Lebohang Phooko. The research was conducted with the help of local historians and others based in former colonial power, Britain as well as France which sent the first Christian missionaries to Lesotho.

Part one was released in 2013 and it focused on the early years of King Moshoeshoe 1. It also covers his departure from his birth place of Menkhoaneng in Butha Buthe to the Qiloane Plateau (Thaba Bosiu) in Maseru district which became his fortress in 1824.

Part two was scheduled for release in 2015 but this did not happen due to low sales of part one which Ramakhula attributed to poor marketing.

Speaking to the Weekender this week, Ramakhula said he used his savings from a production job he got early this in South Africa to fund the release of volumes two and three of the documentary.

“I got a job in Bloemfontein to work on the Dr Rantlai Molemela (the late founder of Bloemfontein Celtic football club) documentary and raised funds before going back to the studio with Saba Sehloho for him to edit the remaining part,” Ramakhula said.

“The initial plan was to have part two only but after new discoveries and additional information about Lesotho today, we decided to break it down into volume two and three with each running for one hour 15 minutes.”

Volume two begins with the story of the Bataung tribe’s alliance with King Moshoeshoe 1 and it also touches on the arrival of the Afrikaners at the Orange River. This volume also covers the two wars between the Basotho and the British.

King Moshoeshoe 1’s military prowess and diplomatic dexterity are presented by history authorities. The last chapter of the volume details the arrival of Sir George Clerk from Britain and his meeting with King Moshoeshoe 1 to arbitrate on the land issues between the Afrikaners and Basotho.

Volume three covers the establishment of the Afrikaner state (the Orange Free State) in 1854 under its first President, Josias Hoffman.

During his tenure, the Orange Free State and Lesotho enjoyed cordial relations but that changed soon after Hoffman was replaced by President Jacobus Nicolaas Boshoff. The two states were suddenly embroiled in disagreements that led to three major wars, all of which were an attempt by the Free State government to conquer Lesotho. King Moshoeshoe 1 successfully defended the Basotho nation until the signing of the annexation treaty by the British in 1868. Lesotho became a British protectorate and His Majesty died in 1870.

“By watching these two volumes, people will discover Morena Moshoeshoe beyond the common knowledge that he advocated for peace, but also the fact that he turned Lesotho into the centre of pan-African politics with many seeking advice from him.

“Although the British were claimed to be friends of Morena Moshoeshoe, they introduced military sanctions on Basotho, not knowing Morena Moshoeshoe’s people had learned to manufacture their own guns and powder which they used to defeat the Afrikaners.

“The information is presented in an intriguing manner which will keep viewers glued to their screens. This is a must watch,” Ramakhula said.

The film’s production manager Hlathe Moteane added that they had developed clear marketing and distribution framework which will ensure that the latest releases do not flop like volume one.

“Our review based on volume one showed us that distribution goes along with marketing and part one failed because it was only distributed to various retail outlets without alerting people about it.

“We are in talks with various marketing outfits, mostly indigenous Basotho companies to be part of the project to ensure it reaches every Mosotho regardless of the location.

“The biggest strategy so far is placing it online for streaming, rentals and downloads. We believe this strategy will reach out to other nations who would like to know about the founding of Lesotho.”

Moshoeshoe: The Mountain King Volume 2 and 3 copies acre currently available at Pioneer Mall’s Basutoland Ink kiosk and Lifestyle Books, La Music Mania LNDC, AVANI Maseru and Lesotho, Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village, Mazenod Book depots as well as Morija Book depots. The official film launch is set for March 2018 which is the national month dedicated to the founder of Basotho nation.

Mohalenyane Phakela

AHEAD of Christmas Day on Monday, the weekend is teeming with entertainment events that will leave revellers spoilt for choice. 

THURSDAY

MASERU TOUCHDOWN 2017

Cuban Linx will kick off the festivities with a homecoming party for Basotho residing outside South Africa. The event is held twice yearly during Easter and Christmas when most people come for the holidays. The show will feature performances by Hobbs, Individual Max, StacyDJ, Mr Maps, Trybz, NINE24, Konsept and Gama, with guest disc spinners from South Africa that include Tha Cutt and 2Zero. 

FRIDAY

KEYS TO THE CITY: THE BLUEPRINT

Slated for Maseru Mall, Keys to the City is an urban event for the Hip Hop loving youths. The lifestyle event which will be held for the third time in as many years will feature South African disc spinner Shaxe Khumalo who has made a name for himself in Lesotho. He will share the booth with locals Veenushka, Osmic, Tiger, Lobby and Gama.

MISS LESOTHO 2018

TWELVE finalists will strut their stuff at Manthabiseng Convention Centre in the race for the prestigious Miss Lesotho title which will automatically land the winner an opportunity to represent Lesotho at Miss World as well as the M20 000 prize money. The judging panel will consist of South African stars including Miss South Africa 2016 Ntandoyenkosi Kunene, South African Top Model Palesa Ramoshebi, Director of Sync Model Management Alessandrio Bergman, Palse Homme founder and fashion designer Paledi Segapo who are set to be the guest judges at the prestigious pageant as well as Miss Universe Zambia 2010 Alice Rowlands. The local judging panel will include Vodacom Lesotho Senior Marketing Specialist Sekonyela Matamane, Miss World Lesotho 2010 Karabelo Tṧosane as well as Ttwins co-owners Matṧeliso and Tṧeliso Thella. South African soapie Muvhango actress Buhle Samuels and DJ Moruti Mathe will be the MCs for the night. South African DJ Cuevoice is expected to entertain patrons alongside local acts such as Juvy, Zagro DJs and Mookho Moqhali. The red carpet reception will be hosted by radio personalities Quizy and April.

T.G.I.F. – BLOCK PARTY

Maseru city centre-based Cuban Linx will “thank God” for Friday through what is dubbed “an expensive” music fiesta which will be headlined by renowned South African House muso DJ Fistaz Mixwell alongside T-Deep from Metro FM who has been a regular guest. Also hailing from South Africa will be the mix guru Master Chen Fu and together will share the stage with local heavyweights such as Mekonko, Bootz, AfroDJ, Trybz, Zakes and Agent K.

WAAR WAS JY 2017

Stone Sounds will take revellers back to the 80s and 90s sounds at Victoria poolside by bringing fourth South African legends such as Mercy Pakela, Kori Moraba, Steve Kekana, Black Five and Zizi Kongo who will share the stage with Lesotho’s veteran Apollo Ntabanyane as well as DJ Counter and Tseko with Lilaphalapha being the MC.

BACK TO THE CAVES

The Kome Caves in Berea district will be a hive of activities when entertainment outfit Legacy House Media host a four-day cultural and lifestyle event. It will be a festival filled with live performances, flea markets, camping, cuisine and cultural activities. Gracing the stage will be Vibes Nation DJ, Chomma Dee, Lion Gasp, Bokang Motsamai, Thizozo, T-Herbs, Damario, Stive Omega, MIP, L-Tore, Boshoa Bots’oere, Nirex, Nde, Him I Am and Cablo Nice among others.

ONE NIGHT STAND WITH STARS

South African prime time soapie Rhythm City stars are billed to grace the Hlotse, Leribe situated Cloud 9 Café which was formerly Ekhaya. Teboho Khalo who plays Puleng, Mpho Molepo who plays Fats and Lesotho’s very own Tseko Monaheng who is yet to make an appearance of the Etv soapie will have a meet and greet session with fans at the club while resident DJs ensure that good music remains the flavour of the night.

 MONDAY

3-STAGE XMAS MADNESS

De Tail Sounds will setup three stages at Hotel Mount Maluti in Mohale’s Hoek on Christmas Day.
Stage 1 (Juveniles Stage) will cater for those aged 15 to 20 and this stage will be set ablaze by Warrys, Cutter, Doggy Dagging, JNice and DeepCaldy who will be playing Hip Hop and 2017 bangers. Stage 2 (Matured Youth) the main focus will be entertaining youths aged 21 years and above through deep and soulful House, Lounge and old school Hip Hop. The line-up will include BhugzSoul (Bhugzela), Spindokta, TshepzaDj, Morsh, DeTail and Lebuza. In the evening, the two line-ups will unite on Stage 3 to host an all-night party.

TUESDAY

SUMMER SHAKEDOWN

Boxing Day will not be the same as Summer Shakedown will bring a relaxed lifestyle hangout to be held at ‘Manthabiseng Convention Centre grounds. The event will feature South African acts such as Major League DJs, Tshego, Nadia Nakai, Gemini Major and Just Themba alongside Zee, Harmonix, Da Starr, Kats & Smooth, SNO and Vards among others.

Mohalenyane Phakela

IT is all systems go for the 13^th edition of the annual Lesotho Tourism Festival (LETOFE) – Sounds of Blue on Saturday, with a host of foreign and local musical artists lined up.

As usual, the fete will be held at Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village and will feature South African musos Ringo, Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuze, Vusi Nova, Bongani Radebe, The Soil and Nathi who replaced the ailing Hugh Masekela.

The local contingent has been increased this year, with the legendary Tšepo Tšola joined by Friends, Mystic Margin, Selimo Thabane, Kommanda Obbs, Juvy and L-Tore.

This year’s edition has the tagline Sounds of Blue reflecting Standard Lesotho Bank’s (SLB) progression from sponsor to brand sponsor. SLB is regarded as the “blue bank”. The other sponsors include Alliance Insurance, Metropolitan Lesotho, Central Media and Vodacom Lesotho.

The bash will be followed the next day by the LETOFE Wrap Up show at the Maseru Mall-based Ba.One. The show will feature DJs Vigilante, Milkshake, Dimplez, Lerato Kganyago and Sue from the neighbouring country, along with locals Tapi Delux, Tedoz and Neo Tlali.

Addressing a press conference in Maseru this week, event organiser, Montoeli ‘Moleli, said all was set for the sought after festival, adding that 5 000 tickets had already been sold.

“As LETOFE keeps gaining momentum and more support, we as the organisers also step up our game with every edition and having learned from other international festivals, we will be having two stages as well as a camping area to allow people to rest before driving home,” he said.

“When we started, only around 2 500 tickets would be sold but this year over 5 000 have already been sold via Computicket, and this number excludes those that have been sold by Vodacom’s M-Pesa.”

‘Moleli said in addition to the normal stage, the cultural village’s amphitheatre would also be used as another stage. Camping sites would be inside Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village and ‘Melesi Lodge – a stone’s throw away from the heritage centre.

“Unlike in the past, this time we will start in the early afternoon because most of the people we attract are mature. So, the aim is to have all the main performances done before they get tired; hopefully by around 1am. However, the show will still continue till the wee hours of Sunday morning.”

The organisers have also addressed the challenge of traffic by fixing an old route so that revellers can use another entrance to the Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village which has its own parking space.

He said the route goes via Liolong, passes ‘Mamohato Children’s Home and Blue Cross to ‘Melesi to the fields near the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation Information Centre on the left side of the cultural village’s entrance.

On behalf of the sponsors, SLB Chief Executive Mpho Vumbukani said as a people oriented bank, they supported initiatives that would help their clients to unwind.

“LETOFE: Sounds of Blue is our flagship sponsorship and it resonates very well with our brand,” he said.

“For over 12 years, Standard Lesotho Bank has been the main sponsor. This is a very important contribution that we are making towards the promotion of arts and culture in Lesotho and indeed the rest of Africa as Standard Bank Group supports different Jazz festivals across the continent, including Standard Bank Joy of Jazz in South Africa.”

He added: “It is our token of appreciation for the loyalty of our customers. Therefore, we urge everybody to come and unwind but then let us spend money wisely and remember that January is still coming.”

He also lauded the organisers for honouring the late Afro Jazz pioneer Frank Mooki Leepa.

“Ntate Frank was a master musician and composer of distinction who represented Lesotho well with aplomb at home and abroad. He remains an icon that has left a mark in the music industry,” said Vumbukani.

KWA-ZULU Natal is known for producing world-class music talent. DJ Black Coffee, DJ Tira, Toya Delazy, Shekhinah, Sketchy Bongo, Nasty C and legendary lyricist and producer Mbongeni Ngema all come from this coastal province. DJ Merlon, real name Sibusiso Mhlongo, has just added his name to the list.

Merlon is no stranger to the music scene: he shot to fame in 2014 with the chart-topping single Koze Kuse, a collaboration with music sensation Mondli Ngcobo. Merlon says he is thrilled about his latest project, The Pure Black Album, and his mentorship programme in partnership with his friend and mentor DJ Black Coffee.

Merlon says his album, dropped last month, is already making waves in the digital space. “This album is the best release of my career so far. It’s really big and already doing well in the markets. Since its release there’s been a buzz on digital platforms. And it’s coming from all over the world… people have been posting from European countries mostly… it’s been amazing.”

South Africa seems to be the hub for the world’s best house music and Merlon revealed that local musicians, some relatively unknown to their countrymen, were making waves overseas. The sad reality, however, is that these artists are not being paid for their work, an issue he would like to address.

“And the guys from here are doing amazing things. Sometimes these guys release 100 songs for free, good-quality music, but their music is not making making money for them because it’s too available. So we need to show them platforms where they can release their music to make money out of their music. This is not protecting them only; we’re also protecting the industry. So if, for instance, I’m selling my music and they are giving theirs for free, there’s bound to be conflict of interest.”

“The youngsters do this with the intention of promoting themselves, so we want to teach them how to use credible channels, the use of social media and introduce them to relevant stakeholders. They must not continue giving their music for free. These guys are very talented and to see them living under poverty while their songs top international charts, is just heartbreaking – they need to start seeing the commercial value of their hard work.”

Merlon says although they cannot sign them all, the programme aims to support the youngsters until they are ready to stand on their own “There are about 15 guys that we mentor on a day-to-day basis. It’s not a once-off thing. We’ll mentor them until they are big enough to stand on their own. However, we are there for them if and when they encounter problems… when they need any kind of help, they have us, any time.”

One of the young people affiliated with the programme is Enoo Napa, real name Siphiwe Mkhize, who recently signed with Soulistic Music. Napa, a self-taught DJ and producer, featured alongside Black Coffee and Da Capo at Ibiza and is now part of the Shimmy Beach summer residency in Cape Town. Merlon also challenged female house music creators to raise their game “because there is a big gap in the industry”.

“We don’t have female producers. We need a producer, a female, who can say: ‘I can make nice music.’ That space has been open for years. All the females are just DJs.” — IOL

Mamohlakola Letuka

MODEL and beauty queen, Mojabeng Senekal, and five other Basotho will take part in the Young African Leadership Initiative programme from beginning on 15 January to early next month at the Regional Leadership Centre (RLC) at the University of South Africa, School of Business Leadership in Pretoria, South Africa.

Senekal, a University of Johannesburg Master’s Degree in Public Health student will participate in public management category.

YALI Regional Leadership Centers are located at higher education institutions in sub-Saharan Africa and offer leadership training programmes to young leaders aged from 18 to 35 years.

The RLCs serve as a place for regional collaboration driven by young leaders by providing in-person and online training, networking, and professional development opportunities. The RLCs are a project of the United States Agency for International Development in collaboration with The MasterCard Foundation and other partners

Senekal and other young leaders will depart Lesotho on 14 January 2018 and return on the 9 February. They will join youths from Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Lesotho, Malawi, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

An excited Senekal this week told the Weekender that she looked forward to making the most of the opportunity to forge lasting relationships with fellow participants that would help her fulfil her dreams.

“I am very excited to have been accepted at my first application, and nothing will be able to hinder me from achieving my dreams,” Senekal said, adding this would help her to achieve more.

“I am planning on growing my modeling camp, where I do not only teach this young girls how to model but also how to find comfort in their own skins.”

“We are often taught that our beauty is validated by a men’s opinions and compliments but my camp teaches them otherwise.

“This is an opportunity that will help me think differently and I believe my projects will expand beyond what they are today.

“I am also sure I will make new friends from different cultures, and I am sure I will learn a lot from them,” she added.

Senekal has represented the country in several beauty pageants.

The BSc Environmental Science graduate from the National University of Lesotho has won several pageants including the Charity Award at the Face of Beauty International 2015 in Taiwan in October 2016.

She also won the Face of Lesotho 2015, Miss Personality 2014, Miss Royalty 2014 and Miss NUL 2015.

Mamohlakola Letuka

THE public have been urged to embrace their African culture and identity in order to liberate themselves from the mental bondage that was brought on western colonisation.

This was said by Mpho Letima, one of the keynote speakers at the Ba re e ne re Literature Festival which was held over the weekend at Machabeng International School in Maseru.

Ba re e ne re is a registered educational organisation whose mission is to enrich the lives of Basotho by promoting initiatives that support improved literacy and creative platforms for expression.

The Ba re e ne re Literature Festival was first held in 2011.

It is a multi-day event that brings together hundreds of people including writers, editors, publishers, poets, students, artistes, educators and expatriates to engage and share literary content.

The weekend activities included a keynote address, performances, panel discussions, and a practice-oriented workshop.

The festival enables Basotho writers to share their unique stories with local and international audiences.

Speaking at the weekend event, Letima said Africans were caged in a “box” of mental slavery and would not be able to break free unless they fully understand their condition.

She said that schools had helped reinforce colonial values making it difficult for people to rid themselves of what they had been systematically taught over a period of 11 years.

She further said that decolonisation would not be possible unless Basotho told their own stories instead of waiting for others to legitimise them through their stories.

“We need to be ourselves and unapologetically transmit our culture.

“We cannot advocate for decolonisation if we are not willing to disregard the colonial systems.

“We need to start asking uncomfortable questions and if we do not know what we are freeing ourselves from, we will just be going around in circles.”

She also called on more Basotho to embrace writing in order to preserve their messages for the future generations.

The cultural festival consisted of sessions A, B, C and D.

Session A explored the importance of literacy and highlighted that there were various literacies to consider for communication and storytelling.

It was agreed that there is the literacy of reading and writing but also visual literacy of images and that of social codes.

Session B was a community discussion to consider the significance of museums and galleries and the kind of art and history they should display.

It was agreed that Lesotho history should not be limited to political events, but also those events about ordinary people and their daily lives.

Section C which explored the intersections between fine art and the written word.

Session D served as a platform where aspiring young writers were educated on the requirements of publishers.

The event opened with some poetry performances and closed with songs by artiste, Morena Leraba.

Mamohlakola Letuka

KIMBERLEY Matete popularly known as ‘Kimberley’ will next week release her third single, Chineko O, which was co-produced by Magic in Progress (MIP) and Megahertz.

The single is a follow up to her earlier tracks, Bad Girl and About You which are available on her SoundCloud, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube accounts.

In an interview with the Weekender this week, she said that the song was inspired by a special person who was her “showstopper”.

“I wrote it for a certain individual that catches my eye every time I see her,” Kimberley said.

The artiste who recently joined MIP began her career under the OGM brand.

“I started doing music professionally in 2015 with OGM. Music runs deep on both sides of my family.

“I recently signed with MIP and this is my second single with them”.

She said she would continue releasing singles until she felt ready to release an experimental project or an album.

“I am working on more singles for exposure so that I can get booked for gigs. So far, I have only performed at the Summa Feva, Cuban Linx and Roma events.

“I felt the need to work on my fan base first so that people are aware of my presence. So for now, I will be working on more singles and music videos that will be shared on every social media platform.”

She said her latest single which was the first of this year, felt like the beginning of a new journey for me because “this is the time for me to go big or go home”.

Kimberly, who also revealed that she is a lesbian, said that many people were not comfortable with her sexuality, which is fully expressed in her music videos and songs.

“I am a Lesbian and my music is about love. This means I will be singing to a woman and also having women in the videos,” she said.

“For many artistes music is a job, but for me it is a way of life through which I express myself, although I would like to make a living out of it soon.

“I’m still working on some things to make it easier for people to find my work although money is my biggest challenge as I do not have sponsors.”

She however, said there were supportive people who gave her positive feedback for work.

Mohalenyane Phakela

THE former cast of Our Times comprising of 32 actors have pleaded with Communications minister, Joang Molapo, to bar the airing of local soap opera on national television until their ‘payment dispute’ with the show’s producer, Motheea Mpharoane, are resolved.

Our Times explores the themes of betrayal, tragedy, romance and tradition among others.

The soapie aired on South African broadcaster eTV’s continental service e-Africa in January until March 2016.

It started airing on Lesotho National Broadcasting Services (LNBS) in May 2017 from Monday to Wednesday at 8:30pm and it is still showing.

When shooting began in 2013, the team, which was then made up of 54 members, agreed to work for free and would be remunerated when the soapie started making money. In July 2016, 32 of the cast parted ways with Mpharoane’s Landlocked Entertainment Company due to poor working relations.

Addressing the media in Maseru on Tuesday, the 32 former cast members said Mpharoane should compensate them for the time they worked on the soapie as they had initially agreed. They said they did not want to return to the soapie because the working relations had already soured and Mpharoane was already insulting them before they parted ways and made it clear that he no longer wanted to work with them.

Their argument is that if Landlocked Entertainment’s contract is renewed before addressing their concerns, Mpharoane will continue enriching himself with the taxpayers’ money while exploiting Basotho through their talents.

“We worked for three years for Landlocked Entertainment without pay as we had agreed that we would be compensated once Our Times starts selling and also discuss working contracts,” said one of the actors’, ‘Mantṧalla Ramakhula.

“We used our own wardrobe, transport and fed ourselves while also bringing to the set our own equipment such as pots for a kitchen shooting and bedding for bedroom scenes. The men were also used as labourers when building the studio.

“Due to the fact that we believed so much in the product, we sacrificed our talents and others were from outside Maseru and had to rent flats here in Maseru. During the third year Etv bought Our Times but two months passed without any word from Ntate Motheea. Some of us were also featured on one of the local insurance companies’ billboard adverts but never got the money we were promised.”

She further stated that they met with Mpharoane who told them that the money was too little and would only suffice to upgrade the studio. They continued working without pay and three months later the government of Lesotho also bought rights to air the soapie. Only then were they offered one year working contracts but to their surprise, the salaries ranged from M800 and M2000 which they considered too little.

They then asked the Ministry of Labour and Employment as well as LNBS to intervene and a day after those meetings they were presented with dismissal letters. They were only three months into the one year contracts when they were dismissed. They were paid for the remaining nine months when they were dismissed.

Another former actor said they were now speaking out “because we want the entire nation to know what kind of Mpharoane is and we also learned that he is seeking a renewal of the contract with LNBS”.

We plead with Ntate Joang not to permit the renewal of the contract because Ntate Motheea will continue exploiting Basotho. We hope we will be the last group of people he abused.

“We only learned about the true figure that the government paid for Our Times through Ntate Joang when said in parliament few weeks ago that it was M4 million. We believe that the government thought the money would be used to pay staff whereas it was meant to make Ntate Motheea rich.

“We want to meet the minister in person so that we can be able to narrate our ordeal to him. We are a team that comprises of camera operators, technicians, actors and set designers so we can work on our own if we get equipment,” the actor said.

However, Mpharoane told this publication that the 32 left on their own free will and both parties signed termination contracts which he paid out.

“They are lying when they say I owe them money because the contract we signed when terminating working relations indicate that I pay them for the remaining nine months of the contracts they had initially signed and neither Landlocked Entertainment nor they can demand anything from the other thereafter,” Mpharoane said.

Part of the contract signed on 27 July 2016 and seen by the Weekender reads: “It is hereby agreed by the two parties that upon signature of this termination agreement neither party shall have any further recourse or claim in relation to this terminated employment contract or any other contract prior to this one which established an employer and employee relationship”.

Mpharoane also produced another document which indicated that the 32 filed a case before Directorate of Dispute Prevention and Resolution (DDPR). The document bearing a DDPR stamp of 29 August 2017 indicated that the case was withdrawn after noting that the two parties had already settled their issues.

“When they took Landlocked Entertainment to the DDPR, their lawyer was surprised to learn of the mutual agreement we signed when parted ways therefore the case had to be thrown out.

“Now that they learn I am working to have the contract with LNBS renewed they want to hinder the process by claiming I owe them. If I really owe them, why don’t they ask LNBS to renew the contract but give them their share from that money? It is clear that their motive now is just to sabotage the project since they are aware it is garnering positive reviews.

“I agree that the money I paid them was little, and it is because the money the company had was little to cover salaries they demanded. They left on their own so I do not understand why they do not produce their own soapie so that we may compete for the LNBS tender and besides the government has appealed for local productions,” Mpharoane said.

JOHANNESBURG — The death of South African jazz legend Hugh Masekela on Tuesday, has shaken the music industry around the world, with musicians and celebrities expressing shock and dismay at the news, more so those who still wanted to work with him.

Masekela passed away earlier on Tuesday surrounded by his family at his home in Johannesburg following a long battle with prostate cancer. He was 78.

An iconic musician, composer and singer, Masekela’s career spanned over five decades in which he released 40 albums and gaining international recognition with his distinctive Afro-Jazz sound and hits such as “Soweto Blues”, which served as one of the soundtracks to the anti-apartheid movement.

“Bra Hugh”, as he was affectionately known, enjoyed friendships and performed alongside jazz legends like Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Charlie Mingus, Janis Joplin, Otis Redding, Jimi Hendrix and Paul Simon.

Musicians have since taken to social media to share the moments they enjoyed with the jazz legend and posted pictures to celebrate his life.

South African DJ Black Coffee, who remixed Masekela’s hit “Stimela”, said he had “no words” to express how he took Masekela’s passing.

Jazz artist Simphiwe Dana said she will forever remember Masekela and had been saddened that he passed on her birthday.

“We were meant to do a whole album together. For years we tried to get it together but it never worked out because he was traveling a lot. He lived his life to the fullest,” Dana Tweeted.

“So I’m not too sad, and I’m happy he is no longer suffering. And I will remember him always, especially on this day, the day of my birth and the day of his passing. He is leaving us a legacy so vast, a music book so big.”

Sipho “Hotstix”Mabuse said: “I have no words – my friend a mentor a giant. Rest In Peace Hugh Masekela. I am shattered.”

Benin musician Angelique Kidjo said: “Today I lost a friend. Hugh Masekela was a pioneer. He was one of the first musicians to spread African Music all over the world. But most of all, he was a funny, generous and beautiful soul.”

Producer and DJ Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwa said: “A beautiful soul he was, when most jazz musicians didn’t want to recognise us as club DJs and Kwaito musicians, he embraced with so much. My last gig with him, last year, we spent time being playful.”

Hip Hop star Cassper Nyovest said: “I once got a chance to jam with him on national TV and for the past two years, I tried to recreate this moment at Fill Up but he wasn’t able to commit to coming to perform with me. I will cherish this moment forever but most importantly the wisdom you shared.”

Scottish musician Annie Lennox said: “A very special man has just left the planet. His name will always be anonymous with the struggle against apartheid. He was profoundly committed to the issues of human rights, freedom and justice. He will be hugely missed.”

Sports presenter Robert Marawa said: “You lost the battle but you always won our hearts….we will continue to hear that “Choo-Choo train. A-chugging, and a pumping, and a smoking, and a pushing, a pumping, a crying and a steaming and a chugging and a whooo whooo! Absolute musical genius.”

TV presenter Boity Thulo said: “Rest in perfect peace, Bra Hugh. We are eternally grateful for the phenomenal and legendary legacy you leave behind. May the Heavens accept you with infinite Love and warmth.”

Masekela’s son, Sal, recalled memories in a Facebook post of being dragged around the jazz clubs of Manhattan by his father aged just five.

“He would steal the hearts and souls of innocents with a musical storytelling all his own. It was these moments and his choosing to take me around the globe any chance he got, that would come to shape my entire world view,” he said.

Masekela’s family it will release the details of his memorial service and funeral in due course. — African News Agency

Mamohlakola Letuka

INTERNATIONALLY-ACCLAIMED South African Poet, Ntsiki Mazwai, had poetry-lovers dancing to her explosive tunes last week Saturday at the ‘Front Porch’ launch held at the Rockview Gardens in Maseru.

Mazwai delivered her beautiful and most loved pieces such as Hey black child; To my exes chery; and Ikhoromente to the excitement of her audience.

The event was a brainchild of Petsoa Majoeng Arts & Entertainment (PMAE), an innovation aiming to showcase the beauty and depth of poetry in the country.

In an interview with the Weekender, Mazwai said, she had not expected some fireworks as she performed on stage.

“The audience were amazing. They listened avidly to each poem, which showed they really love and understand the depths of poetry. It also made me to understand that Basotho understand there are different ways of learning, and poetry is a powerful tool for learning about life, its challenges and other people’s cultures,” Mazwai said.

She further explained the poetry sector in showed a lot of potential and all the local Poets needed was support from relevant stakeholders for them to develop and be able to tell their stories compellingly.

“Poets and other artistes here are gifted, they and very creative. All they need is support from stakeholders, including the government, the private sector and other actors, to nurture their talent to greater heights.”

Mazwai said what sets her apart as an artiste, was her ability to remain herself, explaining, “I was born this way, my voice does all the work for me and I am original.”

Over the years, Mazwai has maintained her status, as a social activist who uses her voice to empower people who cannot fight for themselves.

She expressed her love for Lesotho, saying the Mountain Kingdom was precious because of its authenticity, “a country that does not lie about its identity”.

“I love the authenticity of Basotho. They treasure their traditions, which remain intact in the face of so much global influence. I believe my gift is mostly understood and appreciated here than anywhere else,” she said.

Mazwai is the younger sister to prominent songstress, Thandiswa, who burst onto the South African music scene with the Kwaito super group, Bongo Muffin.

Ntsiki Mazwai is also a renowned performer in her own right, who has mastered the art of combining poetry with music to spread powerful messages about life in Africa and women empowerment.

She made her presence felt on the South African cultural scene, beginning in the underground music movement in pubs and restaurants in Johannesburg in 2002.

Mazwai was thrust into the mainstream by the success of her song uRongo-a soulful mix of poetry and house music in 2005. Her self-titled album, “Spoke Word” was nominated for the South African Music Award (SAMA) for the Best Urban Pop Album in 2008.

The outspoken Ntsiki Mazwai is no stranger to controversy and has been caught -up in several highly publicised spats with fellow prominent South Africans including opposition leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema.

Last July, the two exchanged harsh words on Twitter with Ntsiki threatening to walk away from EFF as the party had become about its leader. Malema shot back saying he did not need her endorsement.

In a separate incident, she had a war of words with television personality, Bonang Matheba, who had apparently told her to focus on her music and also “try and look pretty”.

Mazwai did not take this lying down and responded with an equally vicious barb, saying she did not think Bonang was pretty herself but simply “wears lots of makeup”.

She also took a dig at investigative journalist and author, Jacques Pauw’s explosive new book about President Jacob Zuma, titled: The President’s Keepers, which she described as “white arrogance”.

Also commenting about last Saturday’s event, PMAE Founder, Nthare Makoae, said the event was about empowering Poets and Ntsiki was the ideal artiste to inspire local Poets.

Front Porch is a follow-up to PMAE’s earlier Golden Mic Initiative, which was about developing poetry by providing a platform for artistes to showcase their talent.

“The event was about bringing together poets and creating a poetry society,” Mr Makoae said, adding, “Front Porch is a new project, which is looking at continuing to showcase events that would help to empower our local Poets. This initiative also seeks to expose local Poets’ talent and facilitate future collaborations in the Southern African region and beyond,” Mr Makoae said.