By Selloane Ntshonyane
- The event was organised by Molefi Mokoatle, founder of the Apara Sesotho brand, known for modern designs inspired by Sesotho culture.
- Performers mixed Sesotho music with hip hop, amapiano and afrosoul while attendees wore traditional blankets, hats and skirts.
Old Park Station in Newtown came alive with Sesotho music and dancing as Basotho gathered to celebrate heritage day on 27 September.
The event was hosted by Molefi Mokoatle, founder of the Apara Sesotho clothing brand, which creates modern fashion inspired by Sesotho traditions.
The venue was filled with Seshoeshoe dresses, colourful blankets, beadwork and short skirts called Dithethana. Men and women danced while holding decorated sticks known as melamu.
Ntate Milo, an artist from Qacha’s Nek in Lesotho, said performing at the event was special.
“This honours the greatness of our nation. As Basotho we are lifting up and taking pride in our culture,” he said.
He explained that his music fuses hip hop with Sesotho instruments like the Koriana. Other acts, including Mavele and Stash, Sephaka and Ntate Tekano, blended amapiano, hip hop and afrosoul with Sesotho music.
One attendee, known as Sotho Mafia from Springs, proudly wore a Thula Moya hat and a patchwork blanket. He said the hat, used by herders in the mountains, protects against the cold wind. He also makes and sells hats.
As part of the programme, MC Palo Mokailane hosted a quiz in Sesotho. Winners walked away with Apara Sesotho t-shirts for answering cultural questions and reciting clan names.
Pictured above: Basotho in traditional dress celebrating heritage day at Old Park Station, Newtown.
Image source: Selloane Ntshonyane
