Chris Theko
The harmonious monthly family picnic and flea-market initiative, Nala Community Market came back to life after it returned on Sunday May 01, 2022 at the Sefikeng sa Moshoeshoe Park following a two-year break due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
Nala Market is a monthly community development initiative founded with an objective to bring families together, to interact through shopping, dining and entertainment, all at one station.
Dubbed ‘The Return’, the beatific market promotes art and making of local products from different places in Lesotho to ensure prosperity (Nala) and growth for all.
Speaking to Newsday on the sidelines of the event, Nala Coordinator, MaLord Mefane said the initiative is focused on community development and working to end the grave unemployment crisis through activities that promote self-reliance.
“Our idea is to provide a platform for the public, and in particular families, to access locally-produced goods and fresh produce, as well as showcasing local talent and other home-grown products.
“Through the Nala Market, we have created an avenue for local small producers and businesses to showcase their products and to also support them to generate income,†Mefane said.
The rebound do showcased different art products, ranging from fine art; handicrafts, and the famous Basotho wall-hangers, which are made of the beautiful Lesotho wool.
It also featured fashion with stalls for different types of locally-produced street wear on display.
The momentous family picnic also presented an opportunity for live performances from amateur artistes to the likes of rapper/singer Kali Mrepantsula, Mora-Mobu who is a poet and Ragga Vybz bringing about a mix of music and poetry.
Nala Market was first launched in March 2016 and so far, the project has thoroughly worked to ensure a community-based approach that is inclusive of some of the forerunners who make Lesotho great.
