Basotho youth wow Europe and the Caribbean with culture, but lack of government support casts a shadow on historic journey.
Lesotho’s cultural identity shone brightly this year as Sothokids Culture Agency embarked on a groundbreaking creative tour across Europe and the Caribbean, showcasing authentic Basotho traditions to global audiences.
The youth-led agency departed the Mountain Kingdom on July 11 this year and returned on August 27, after performing at the renowned Festivals du Sud Tour.
Their journey included stops in France, Spain, Switzerland, and the Caribbean Islands, where they shared stages with internationally acclaimed artist Omali Themba, proudly flying Lesotho’s flag.
The tour was a milestone not only for the young performers but for the nation at large. At a time when African culture often struggles for visibility on the global stage, Sothokids stood out as the sole representative from the continent at the festival.
For six weeks, the group captured audiences with vibrant displays of music, dance, storytelling, and traditional attire. Their performances left lasting impressions on festivalgoers who had little exposure to Basotho culture.
A highlight came in Evolène, Switzerland, where their performance before a packed hall earned a standing ovation. It was a defining moment for the troupe and a proud achievement for Lesotho.
“We successfully staged multiple performances across Europe, and everywhere we went our culture was warmly received,” said the agency’s general manager, Sebabatso Litlali.
“In Switzerland, the audience could not stop applauding. That was a powerful reminder that our traditions have a place on the global stage.”
Beyond live shows, the group held cultural workshops and dialogue sessions, sharing heritage and traditions while collaborating with artists in France, Spain, and Switzerland. These exchanges created artistic blends that fused Basotho rhythms with European expressions.
“These collaborations birthed something new and beautiful, true cultural fusion. We danced, sang, and even shared meals and stories with our hosts. It was more than a performance, it was cultural immersion.” Litlali explained.
Their impact was widely recognised. In Géménos, France, the group received a Cultural Appreciation Award for their contribution to global diversity through performance. They also attracted European media coverage, with appearances on local radio and television extending Lesotho’s cultural reach.
Yet, behind the triumph lay financial struggles. Although the festival covered major costs such as flights, meals, and accommodation, significant expenses remained.
Founder and director Makhebe Seatlana disclosed that he personally invested nearly M100,000 to cover attire, visas, and logistics.
“We were not expecting monetary support from government because the invitation had already catered for most expenses,” Seatlana explained in an exclusive interview with Newsday.
“But we had hoped for at least moral support from the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture or from our embassies abroad. Sadly, even when we asked for help with visas or local transport, our requests were ignored.”
He noted that the only official who reached out during the trip was Lesotho’s Ambassador to Switzerland, Tšiu Khathibe, who visited them during their stay.
Despite this lack of official backing, private partners stepped forward to make the tour possible. Among the sponsors were Buti’s Car Wash, Sechaba Milling Co., FNB Lesotho, Jonko-Mane Denims, EcoFest, Brand New Vixion, TWGI Group, and Econet Telecom Lesotho.
“Without these sponsors, our journey would not have been possible,” Seatlana emphasised.
Their success has already earned them an invitation to the 2026 edition of the festival in Northern Europe. But enthusiasm is tempered by the financial strain.
“Because we represented Lesotho so well, the organisers extended another invitation. But knowing the costs I carried this year, I am seriously considering turning it down. Even though flights and accommodation are covered, smaller costs like visas and traditional attire are still significant. It may simply not be sustainable to repeat this,” Seatlana said.
His concerns highlight the broader challenges facing grassroots cultural groups in Lesotho, where creativity often exceeds institutional support.
Even so, the achievements of Sothokids cannot be denied. By bringing the Basotho spirit to Europe and the Caribbean, they placed Lesotho firmly on the map of global cultural exchange.
For the young performers, the journey was life-changing. They showcased their heritage while learning new forms of storytelling and collaboration through international workshops.
“This tour was proof that Basotho culture belongs on the world stage. We may be a small country, but our traditions are powerful, and when shared with the world, they resonate,” Seatlana said.
Summary
- The youth-led agency departed the Mountain Kingdom on July 11 this year and returned on August 27, after performing at the renowned Festivals du Sud Tour.
- The tour was a milestone not only for the young performers but for the nation at large.
- At a time when African culture often struggles for visibility on the global stage, Sothokids stood out as the sole representative from the continent at the festival.
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