The red carpet was rolled out and Maseru’s music lovers filled the Manthabiseng Convention Centre on Saturday evening as the 2nd edition of the National Music Awards (NMA’s) brought together the crème of Lesotho’s creative industry for a night of celebration, glamour, and unforgettable performances.
The spotlight of the evening belonged to gospel music sensation Minister Spokes, who emerged as the night’s biggest winner. He scooped two of the most coveted awards, Song of the Year for his powerful hit Taba eaka and Record of the Year for the soul-stirring Lifela tsa Chache.
Taking to the stage to a standing ovation, Spokes was visibly emotional as he acknowledged the support behind his journey.
“Thank you Baheso ba ratehang ka tšehetso ea lona towards my ministry,” he said warmly, drawing loud cheers from the audience.
He went on to thank his family, his mentor Bishop Kgabe, and the Anglican Church of Lesotho for “opening doors for me and allowing me to sing their hymns,” which have become a cornerstone of his music ministry.
Organised under the theme Celebrating Lesotho’s Creative Spirit, the awards ceremony featured a vibrant mix of live performances, tribute segments, and moving acceptance speeches that reflected the resilience and growth of the local music industry.
One of the most emotional moments of the night came when legendary famo singer Apollo Ntabanyane was honoured with the Queen ‘Mamohato Lifetime Achievement Award.
The room erupted in applause as the veteran artist, who has shaped Lesotho’s musical identity for decades, took to the stage. The award celebrated not only his longevity but also his ability to evolve and remain relevant in a constantly changing industry.
Another major highlight was the presentation of the Artist of the Decade Award to none other than Ntate Stunna. Known for putting Lesotho hip hop on the map, his consistency, international collaborations, and dominance over the past ten years earned him this special recognition.
True to his charismatic nature, Stunna thanked his fans, affectionately known as “Stunna Nation”, for supporting him from underground stages to the global spotlight.
A wide range of artists were also honoured across various categories. Cityzeen LS took home the Best Sothohop Artist award, while Lady Ray was named Best Upcoming Artist. Lekope FM presenter, ‘Mapaseka Sekantsi, won the Best Music Radio Program Presenter award, and Sannerewas recognised as the Most Played Artist on Radio.
Mega Ntsihlele walked away with the Best Producer award, while Target claimed Best Famo Artist. The Best Hip Hop Artist award went to Sekani, and the Best Clap and Tap Album was awarded to Lerato La Bolumeli.
The Best Newcomer award was taken by Pelo E Tlotlehang Ea Jeso, while Koenas scooped Best Gospel Album. Jerry Ramanemane won Best Afro Soul, and Masterpiece took home Best Amapiano Album. The Best Jazz Album award went to Sipho Lukhele, while Nthabiseng Mohanele was named Best International Artist. BASA walked away with the Best Choral Group award, and the Best Political Album accolade went to Laere Oa DC.
The NMAs also provided a platform for emerging artists and young talents who are shaping the future of Lesotho’s music industry. With dazzling fashion on the red carpet, energetic performances, and heartfelt speeches, the night served as a powerful reminder of the vibrancy and potential of the country’s creative sector.
In his remarks, the Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, Motlatsi Maqelepo, reflected on the progress made since the awards were launched last year. He praised the decision to establish the NMAs as a way to celebrate and recognise local talent.
“Musicians have always been part of who we are as Basotho over generations; our talent and creativity have been entrenched and overflowing like the rivers that cut through our mountains but for too long government and the private sector and society had not come together to raise music high enough to the level it deserves, tonight we correct that mistake, we further declare that music will never play in the background of our nations’ history and will take its place at the center,” Minister Maqelepo said.
“Music is not just entertainment, it is the heartbeat of our culture, the echo of our heritage and the voice of our people when words are not enough, it builds bridges where divisions stand, it reconciles where pain lingers, it speaks and conveys what no ordinary speech ever could. Our artists are not merely performers but vessels of the nation’s soul and we must protect them, uplift and make sure they thrive,” he added.
Summary
- The red carpet was rolled out and Maseru’s music lovers filled the Manthabiseng Convention Centre on Saturday evening as the 2nd edition of the National Music Awards (NMA’s) brought together the crème of Lesotho’s creative industry for a night of celebration, glamour, and unforgettable performances.
- He went on to thank his family, his mentor Bishop Kgabe, and the Anglican Church of Lesotho for “opening doors for me and allowing me to sing their hymns,” which have become a cornerstone of his music ministry.
- Our talent and creativity have been entrenched and overflowing like the rivers that cut through our mountains but for too long government and the private sector and society had not come together to raise music high enough to the level it deserves, tonight we correct that mistake, we further declare that music will never play in the background of our nations’ history and will take its place….
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