Mohalenyane Phakela
HORDES of revellers braved the rain during the BOLESWA Intervarsity Games opening bash held on Saturday at Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village.
Fortunately for them, the line-up of local and South African artists did not disappoint with scintillating performances during the all night bash organised by entertainment outfit Rock The City SA in conjunction with National University of Lesotho’s student body (SRC).
The event, powered by Vodacom Lesotho, was meant to launch the BOLESWA Intervarsity Games – an annual event held on a rotational basis between the University of Botswana, National University of Lesotho and National University of Swaziland to foster solidarity and mutual friendship among the students. This year, the games are being held in Lesotho, and began on Monday this week until Saturday.
The opening show lived up to the billing of organisers with a huge stage, top notch sound system and three large monitors that ensured that revellers could see and hear the artists from afar.
The South African contingent of Professor, Character, Emtee, DJ Liquid, Zano, Cassper Nyovest, Heavy K, Mono T, DJ Mlungu, Dr Malinga, Nokwazi, Fif Cooper, Zinhle Ngidi & Trademark kept the crowd on the dance floor despite the light showers that threatened to disrupt the event.
Local artists such as 3rdCode, Kot Inferno, KVN, Juvy and Mohale Oa Lioling held their own during their performances and also left fans screaming for more.
Mohale Oa Lioling leader, Taemane, told the Weekender on the side-lines of the event it was an honour to be the only famo group to perform at the show.
“We feel honoured to be part of this great show and to share the stage with seasoned artists since we have only managed to share the stage with South African singer Rebecca Malope in 2013,” he said.
“Sharing the stage with these high profile artists ensures that we up our game and get the necessary exposure since we will be performing in Botswana in June.”
Taemane said the recent spate of famo-related killings had dented their image and resulted in fewer bookings.
“The killings have turned people against us and they no longer support us because they fear for their lives. It has become very difficult for us to get bookings or even sell our music,” he said.
South African House producer and vocalist, Zano, said he was “blown away” by the talent in Lesotho.
“This is my second time performing in Lesotho and I am always blown away by the local talent. The fans also know how to have fun and bring a lot of vibe to a show irrespective of the weather,” he said
“It was also good to have South African acts sharing the stage with local artists which builds the spirit of oneness.
“There is also a lot of talent in Lesotho, especially in Hip Hop, and I believe it is high time South African and Lesotho artists worked together.”
