By Khahliso Khama
MASERU — The Maseru Central Park was a hive of activity last weekend as Basotho youths celebrated the start of the ploughing and planting season known as Selemo sa Basotho.
Selemo sa Basotho is marked on the first of August every year when the Basotho traditional year begins.
The day marks the beginning of the planting season for Basotho.
The cultural event was organised by local artist Tlali Mapetla.
Mapetla told the Weekender that the show was meant to connect young Basotho with their culture.
He said it was important for young Basotho to mark important cultural events and reconnect with their past.
“All we are trying to do is bring Basotho mainly the youth closer to their tradition and culture which they seem to be slowly distancing themselves from,” Mapetla told the Weekender.
“We as the youth are trying to associate ourselves with our traditional and cultural values. To get every young person involved we decided to celebrate the different aspects of our culture through entertainment.”
Mapetla said they decided to come up with a programme where families could mingle with friends while listening and enjoying music by local artists.
DJ Tseko and Macs on the Decks were on the decks and performed for the crowd at the event.
‘Mamosa Mat’saba, 43, said she enjoyed the experience.
“I admire the concept by these youngsters to reconnect us with our culture and expose other young people to these celebrations,” Mat’saba said.
