Leemisa Thuseho
THE Bothata Mahlala-led Basotho Development Front (BDF) has taken a commendable step towards encouraging youth to monetise social media content creation.
The newly formed political party recently hosted a Facebook competition, where content creators participated in a “Magumba Dance Challenge”. The participant whose video garnered the most views won the challenge.
The Magumba dance, which originated in Sasolburg, South Africa, is associated with the song Magumba by Khadeair – a South African DJ, producer, vocalist, and songwriter. The dance involves unique head movements and has gained popularity through social media platforms.
The competition began on 14 July, and the winner was announced on Monday at the BDF office in Maseru.
Tholoana Sehloho and her crew were declared the winners in absentia and received a cash prize of M5000.
Speaking at the event, BDF media team member Tlale Pae said the initiative aimed to raise awareness among young people that content creation on social media can lead to employment opportunities and help address the country’s high youth unemployment rate.
“Our leader, Mr Mahlala, learned about the need to facilitate social media monetisation in Lesotho and responded promptly by launching this initiative,” Mr Pae said.
“We advocate for youth empowerment and want to demonstrate that social media content creation is a viable income-generating tool that can combat youth unemployment.”
BDF Youth Leader, Thato Nkhopea, echoed Mr Pae’s sentiments, emphasising that young people are highly creative and that their empowerment is a core priority for the party and its leader.
She also revealed that more initiatives are underway.
“We have two upcoming competitions starting this week, where youth will be invited to design a BDF blanket and a Seshoeshoe cloth,” Ms Nkhopea said.
Each winner will receive M10,000.
