Mohalenyane Phakela
RENOWNED American-born Hip Hop artist and poet, Akua Naru, is set to perform in Lesotho from 23 to 27 August 2016 as part of Women’s Month commemorations.
The Germany-based lyricist will headline a show slated for Victory Hall in Moshoeshoe II on 25 August 2016 and share the stage with local poets and rappers. Naru is also scheduled to participate in a camping excursion at Casa Tumi in Makhalaneng.
According to Lekhema Malakia and Phoka Thene who spoke on behalf of the organisers, Naru’s visit was made possible through the collaboration of Bonono Merchants, Back to the Woods, Kingsway Kicks, Bare e ne re, Focus Creative Agency, Nala Project, Verbal Reigns, Ragga Vybz, The Urban Era and Kick4Life.
They said Naru, who was born Latanya Hinton, would participate in a number of activities meant to inspire women and share her experiences with local artists.
“She is not only an artist, but a feminist as well who has held a number of workshops around the world aimed at empowering women,” said Thene.
“Upon her arrival in Lesotho, Naru will head to Teyateyaneng to tour a number of cooperatives such as Elelloang Basali and Hatoa Mose Mosali to learn more about women crafters and the challenges they face.
“She will hold a meet-and-greet seminar with local women and the corporate sector at Kick4life’s No.7 Restaurant to create linkages so they can collaborate even after she has left.”
Malakia said Naru expressed a desire to visit Lesotho when they met her last year.
“We attended a show Naru held last year in South Africa and were able to meet and talk about the visit. Naru told us she always wanted to visit the Mountain Kingdom,” said Malakia.
“During her performance on 25 August 2016, a local band will play for Naru because she uses bands in the country she is visiting.”
The camping excursion will include such activities as hiking the Thabana Li Mmele plateau and paintball.
“Naru’s fans will be able to interact with her in an informal setting. The Nala Project social market will also be open and we are expecting local artists from all sectors to showcase their talents and sell their wares,” he said.
