Africa-Press – Lesotho. Local artists have expressed their excitement over the resumption of events following the Prime Minister’s announcement on Sunday that the country has moved to alert colour blue as per
the country’s colour coding system which serve[s] as a guide for decision making for the Government of Lesotho to manage and control the spread of the
Covid-19 pandemic. To curb the spread of Covid-19, the government had imposed the restrictions of movement and other activities like events as they were considered the super spreaders of the
pandemic. In an interview with Informative Arts&Lifestyle Matete Leuta known as MATE. D in the music industry clarified that their grievances presently have turned into enthusiasm as their long time
struggle has been resolved. Leuta indicated that they went through tragic moments of extreme poverty in their families as they had nothing to earn a living with.
Moreover, Leuta showed that the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Advocate Lekhetho Rakuoane has been there for them, supporting them throughout the journey.
“The scuffle was very unbearable but we do make an assurance that we will abide by the guidelines put in place
by the World Health Organization (WHO) to curb the spread of Covid-19 because we have realized that it has negative impacts on our lives,” he said. Moreover, Leuta pointed
out that during this tussle he managed to release a single entitled ‘Papa ka linaoa’ inspired by the donation which was given to the local artists and film makers by the government.
He said the single was aimed at stating their dissatisfaction regarding the donation and also urge the government to take them serious and understand that art is
their source of income. He clarified that with that single he was not undermining the effort made by the government but was signifying that more focus should be on artists’ royalties.
“I am impressed by the government through the National COVID-19 Secretariat (NACOSEC) for permitting
us to start our performances because I was unable to meet my basic needs for survival,” he said. Meanwhile Famo musician Mantša Mohale who is an advisory
member at Lesotho Music Rights Association (LeMRA) highlighted that they are happy with the decision which was reached of restarting of events as this will enable them to generate more
money for their productions and meeting their necessities. “We are making a plea to the government to increase capacity of people who are permitted to attend
events as we are going to make little money, I will ensure that they adhere to World Health Organization guidelines (WHO) at all times. Also entertainment sector should be enhanced as it improves the economy of countries,” he added.
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