The National Music Awards (NMAs) brought their 2025 edition to a memorable close by presenting the newly introduced Tribute Achievement Award to the late Joseph Moeketsi Chaltin Tsatsanyene, a pioneer widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Lesotho’s music and entertainment industry.
The award, presented posthumously, recogniSed Tsatsanyene’s outstanding contribution to the growth and professionalization of the country’s creative sector. His son, Mokherane Chaltin Tsatsanyene, accepted the honour on behalf of the family during the ceremony, marking an emotional highlight of the evening.
Born with a vision to elevate Lesotho’s music and arts scene, Chaltin made his mark in 1978 when he founded Charisma Productions, later renamed TransAfrica Arts Productions. Through this platform, he began promoting both local and international artists, helping to bridge Lesotho’s music industry with the global stage.
Among the artists he worked with were prominent names such as Letta Mbuli, Caiphus Semenya, and Kori Moraba, alongside international acts including Jimmy Cliff, Clarence Carter, The O’Jays, and The Commodores.
Chaltin was also the man behind bringing the Bossel Circus to Lesotho, a rare feat that showcased his ambition to expose local audiences to diverse forms of entertainment.
He was instrumental in managing Sankomota, one of the most celebrated musical groups ever to emerge from Lesotho. Beyond music, he demonstrated his creative versatility through theatre, notably with productions such as Mahlomo. In 1991, he founded a political music group named Setlamo, using art as a vehicle for social and political expression.
Speaking during the awards ceremony, Rorisang Motsamai, the event organiser, described Tsatsanyene as a visionary whose work had a lasting impact on Lesotho’s creative industry.
“His dedication to promoting local and international talent, as well as his innovative approach, has truly cemented him as a legendary icon,” Motsamai said.
“His contribution not only opened doors for artists who came after him but also laid a solid foundation for the future of Basotho music.”
Representing the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, Senior Arts and Crafts Officer Tokelo Mapena commended the NMAs for recognising Tsatsanyene’s role in shaping the country’s artistic landscape. She emphasized that the ministry’s mandate includes creating a conducive environment for artists to thrive and make a sustainable living from their work, which in turn contributes to addressing unemployment.
“Great works deserve to be honored. Recognising figures like the late Chaltin Tsatsanyene not only pays tribute to their legacy but also inspires younger generations to build on their achievements,” she said.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Mokherane, who also serves as a Member of Parliament, expressed gratitude to the NMAs for the recognition and reflected on his father’s enduring influence.
“Though he may not have received his flowers while he was still with us, I am forever grateful to be his son. He was my mentor, my guide, and my inspiration throughout my life,” he said.
In a touching gesture that underscored his commitment to preserving his father’s legacy, Mokherane announced that he would personally sponsor the Tribute Achievement Award annually with a M10,000 contribution, beginning next year.
“This moment means more than words can express. As a token of my appreciation and commitment to preserving his legacy, I pledge to sponsor this category every year so that we may continue recognising those who have paved the way for Basotho music and inspired generations.”
The NMAs’ decision to honour Tsatsanyene was met with widespread applause from the audience, many of whom hailed him as a trailblazer whose vision helped shape the modern entertainment industry in Lesotho.
His multifaceted career, spanning music promotion, artist management, theatre production, and cultural advocacy, established a blueprint for future generations of creatives in the country.
His name now joins a distinguished list of creatives whose contributions continue to influence the country’s cultural and artistic identity, ensuring that his pioneering spirit lives on through the artists and industry professionals he inspired.
Summary
- The National Music Awards (NMAs) brought their 2025 edition to a memorable close by presenting the newly introduced Tribute Achievement Award to the late Joseph Moeketsi Chaltin Tsatsanyene, a pioneer widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Lesotho’s music and entertainment industry.
- In an emotional acceptance speech, Mokherane, who also serves as a Member of Parliament, expressed gratitude to the NMAs for the recognition and reflected on his father’s enduring influence.
- As a token of my appreciation and commitment to preserving his legacy, I pledge to sponsor this category every year so that we may continue recognising those who have paved the way for Basotho music and inspired generations.
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