…as rising and music legends are awarded at NMA ceremony
Ithabeleng Qhasho
THE Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, in collaboration with the National Music Awards (NMA) and the Lesotho Copyright Society of Authors and Artists (Lescosa), has honoured the late Joseph Moeketsi Chaltin Tsatsanyane, a pioneer in Lesotho’s music and arts industry, with a posthumous award.
The ceremony was held in Maseru on Tuesday, with Mr Tsatsanyane’s son, Mokherane Chaltin Tsatsanyane, receiving the award on behalf of his late father.
Speaking on behalf of NMA organising team, Rorisang Motsamai revealed that Mr Tsatsanyane was among the key honourees of the night, recognised for his immense contribution to Lesotho’s music industry. He also announced two other winners in different categories: Palesa Sehoai for Single of the Year and Socks from Boiketlo FM for Best Radio Music Presenter.
Born on 15 January 1948, Mr Tsatsanyane’s influence reached its peak in the 1990s when he founded Trans-Africa Arts Productions, which hosted renowned music festivals and stage productions. His platform promoted both local and international artists such as Hugh Masekela, Steve Kekana, Kori Moraba, and The O’Jays, among others.
In 1991, Tsatsanyane achieved another milestone by forming the political music group Setlamo, whose hit single Ntsu Lefika le Teng sold hundreds of thousands of copies, cementing his status as a music icon. He is survived by two sons, Moorosi Daniel Tsatsanyane and Mokherane, who continue to uphold the family’s artistic legacy.
Senior Arts and Culture Officer, Bokang Mokotjo, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to addressing youth unemployment through support for the creative industry. She said that when talent is nurtured through the right policies, it can create jobs and transform lives.
“Basotho are gifted in music, and platforms like the Music Awards are key to nurturing that talent,” she said.
Ms Mokotjo expressed gratitude to the Tsatsanyane family, noting that their contribution had paved the way for many Basotho artists. She added that, as a result, the Ministry and the Music Awards Festival had decided to honour Mr Tsatsanyane with a Tribute Achievement Award.
Acting Manager of Lescosa, Maema Chaka, described Tsatsanyane as a legend who inspired generations. He explained that Lescosa promotes and protects creatives by issuing licences to businesses that use music and by collecting licence fees to distribute as royalties.
“Creativity must pay because artists invest their time, skill and money in producing what others consume,” Mr Chaka said.
He added that the Music Awards and similar events are essential for promoting creativity and recognising artists’ hard work.
