By: Puseletso Maqoaelane
Maseru – In a press conference hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, and Culture in collaboration with Melodious Awards PTY LTD, plans for the highly anticipated 1st National Music Awards are shared.
Scheduled for October 18th, 2024. The awards ceremony forms a key part of the nation’s bicentennial celebrations, commemorating 200 years of cultural heritage.
The event, which promises to be a landmark occasion, aims to honor and celebrate the exceptional talent within the music industry. The press conference provides an in-depth look at the event’s significance, the categories to be awarded, and the anticipated impact on the music scene.
Rorisang Motsamai, the Managing Director of Melodious Awards, shares exciting news regarding the advancement of the music industry in Lesotho. According to Motsamai, the establishment of the melodious Music Awards last year was a significant milestone aimed at accelerating and strengthening the music scene within the country.
‘’we started the department called Melodious Music Awards last year, and its inception was precisely to organize and elevate all categories of music, we planned to ensure that the categories would be expanded,” Motsamai says.
The initiative began in September 2023, when a dedicated team came together to embark on this project. Along the way, promising developments unfolded, including collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Sports Arts and Culture.
“This collaboration led to the birth of a new entity called the National Music Awards,” Motsamai explains. The National Music Awards Ceremony is set to become an annual event dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the best musical and creative accomplishments in Lesotho.
The inception of the National Music Awards marks a pivotal moment for the music industry in Lesotho. It represents a concerted effort to not only acknowledge but also nurture local prestigious platforms to showcase their work. This initiative is poised to play a crucial role in the growth and development of the country’s music landscape, ensuring that Lesotho’s musical heritage continues to thrive and gain recognition.
‘Makhukhumala Kama, the Chief Executive Officer of the Lesotho Copyright Society of Authors and Artists, has shed light on the organization’s critical role in the creative industry. Kama emphasizes that their mission is to protect and enhance the work of artists and creators, ensuring they reap the benefits of their labour.
“Our role is to protect artists and creators, to develop them, to ensure that creators benefit from their work, and register their creations”, Kama states. This protection is important in era where intellectual property can be easily compromised, and the efforts of artists often go unrewarded.
The Lesotho Copyright Society of Authors and Artists is committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of local artists. By registering their works, the society provides a framework that safeguards intellectual property, ensuring that creators maintain control over their creations and receive due recognition and compensation.
Furthermore, the organization is dedicated to the development of artists. This involves offering support and resources that enable creators to enhance their skills and grow their careers. The society’s efforts help to cultivate a thriving creative environment in Lesotho, where artists feel valued and empowered.
The CEO‘s vision for the Lesotho Copyright Society underscores a broader commitment to fostering a robust creative industry. By protecting and promoting the rights of artists, society plays an essential role in nurturing the country’s cultural and artistic heritage. This, in turn, ensures that creators can continue to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Lesotho’s cultural landscape.
Hlalele Hlalele, the Deputy Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Culture and Youth, has affirmed the importance of cultural awards in Lesotho. He emphasizes that these awards like those that are found in other countries, are a testament to the nation’s creativity and artistic achievements.
“We are committed to these awards, which recognize excellence and creativity,” Hlalele states. “Lesotho has joined the ranks of nations with such prestigious accolades guided by the Lesotho Copyright Society of Authors and Artists.”
This year marks a significant milestone as Lesotho prepares to celebrate 200 years of Basotho heritage. The awards will not only honour this rich history but also pave the way for future celebrations. This event aims to foster unity among the Basotho people, reflecting on their cultural roots while looking forward to progress.
“The purpose of the awards is to bring the Basotho community together, to reflect on our past, and to envision our future,” Hlalele says.” We want to use our talents to enhance our lives and celebrate our achievements.”
By recognizing and celebrating the talents of local artists and creators, these awards provide a platform for showcasing Basotho culture and heritage. They highlight the creative contributions of individuals and inspire a sense of pride and unity within the community.