Lesotho is about to take centre stage on the global cultural map, as Sothokids Culture Agency prepares for a historic creative tour across Europe and the Caribbean.
From July 11 to August 27, 2025, the dynamic youth-led agency will represent the Kingdom at the Festivals du Sud Tour, performing in France, Spain, Switzerland, and the Caribbean Islands, alongside renowned artist Omali Themba.
What began as a bold ambition has now become a lived reality for the founder and director, Makhebe Seatlana, who shared his heartfelt reflections on what this moment means.
“This tour is a milestone for our agency. It serves as a confirmation that hard work indeed pays. It is also a proud moment for Basotho culture, a chance to showcase our heritage on an international platform, proving that our stories and creativity have a place on global stages,” Seatlana said.
Lesotho’s participation in the tour is a remarkable achievement. Seatlana explained that Sothokids was discovered online and later invited to a presentation where four other African countries were being considered for the opportunity.
“Fortunately, Lesotho through Sothokids was picked. This moment is not just for us, it is for the nation.”
The team has dedicated countless hours to preparation. For months, they have rehearsed every Sunday, focusing on storytelling through performance, music, and movement.
The performances promise a powerful fusion of traditional Basotho music and dance with modern creative expression, a raw, visually striking celebration of Basotho culture.
“We have worked on our creative elements while also taking care of travel logistics. We are proud to share that we have already secured our visas and flight tickets,” Seatlana said.
This journey holds deeper meaning beyond the stage. Sothokids sees this tour as a stepping stone toward a larger vision of building a sustainable cultural industry in Lesotho.
“We aim to become a leading cultural agency that supports, trains, and exports African creativity to the world, while remaining deeply rooted in Lesotho,” said Seatlana. “Our very core is about helping young people make a living from their talents to help beat the high unemployment rate in our country.”
For Seatlana, this journey is also personal. “I am beyond humbled and excited for this opportunity. It is a reminder of my hard work, resilience, and patience. As a young leader, it has been challenging for me, but against all odds, a dream has now become reality. I hope this serves as proof of God’s grace.”
Despite the team’s unwavering commitment, the road was not without its obstacles. Funding posed one of the biggest challenges. “We could not execute certain things because of the absence of money,” he explained. But the dream was kept alive by the support of generous sponsors who stepped forward to make the journey possible.
These include Buti’s Car Wash, Sechaba Milling Co., FNB Lesotho, Jonko-Mane Denims, EcoFest, Brand New Vixion, TWGI Group, and Econet Telecom Lesotho.
“Their support was absolutely important as it made everything financially and logistically possible. We are truly grateful.”
While the major logistics have been covered, the team is still in need of additional funding, particularly for performance costumes and participant allowances.
Seatlana appealed to the public and the private sector alike: “Anyone who believes in the power of youth and culture is welcome to support this initiative. We are almost there, and every contribution matters.”
The tour is being promoted under the slogan #18moyeng, a powerful declaration that young Basotho are on the move, breaking barriers, and claiming their space on global platforms.
“This is bigger than us,” Seatlana said. “We are carrying the hopes of a generation, and we are doing it with pride.”
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