MORIJA BRINGS TOGETHER THOUSANDS OF BASOTHO

The Morija Arts and Cultural festival has once again brought together the Basotho nation from all corners of the country to celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of Lesotho and her people. Basotho of all ages ranging from children, youth, old and the aged collectively move up and about in realization of this years' festival objective which is to promote harmony among people and confidence in Lesotho after holding successful elections.

The festival further gives Basotho an opportunity to explore their interest in various fields that include traditional music, dance, drama as well as traditional arts such as "morabaraba" the board game while children are bound to enjoy younger people's activities that include a wide range of dance, film and drama shows.

One of the boys group performing a cultural dance at the festival (pic.L.Mphafi) 

The Festival has further been described by small entrepreneurs as an opportunity for them to market their products with the aim to attract potential buyers.  In an interview with one of the entrepreneurs Mrs Matebello Rapopo from Elelloang Basali based in   Teyateyang who had displayed the locally produced mohair products said it is during the festival that they meet other manufactures in exchange of views on how to improve products so as to improve their businesses. She mentioned that having           participated at the festival since 1999, they have since attracted both local and outside markets because of their displays during the festival, clarifying that most support has been from the tourists hence she expressed hope that in future more Basotho will extend their support to small entrepreneurs. 

Some of the crafts that were displayed by small entrepreneurs. (pic.L.Mphafi)                                                                                                                 

She further commended the organizers of the festival saying it should continue to run annually since it improves the country's economy by attracting tourists, saying it also encourages oneness amongst the Basotho. Most of the entrepreneurs who displayed among others, traditional dresses, handicrafts, art work, leader works, interior decorations and tapestries also expresses their gratitude for similar opportunities brought to them by the festival.

Meanwhile, the festival also attracted entrepreneurs from Swaziland, who also expressed their delight to take part for they will be able to establish new contacts as well as share experiences, information and exchange goods with other entrepreneurs from Lesotho. Meanwhile, the festival is the fourth of its kind to be held in Lesotho and is expected to come to an end on Sunday.

04 October,2002