The theme of this year's Morija Arts and Cultural Festival challenges parents to engage in a self-assessment,  examining whether they are still bringing up their children according to the traditional family norms and values.

Queen 'M'aSenate Bereng Seeiso, officially launching the 7th Morija Arts and Cultural Festival, which will be held from September 29 to October 2, 2005, urged parents, as key members of families, responsible for nation building and nurturing, to consider the festival not only as an entertainment event but, mainly as a platform from which the love of culture could be instilled  in children.

It is through the Festival that the Basotho, especially the younger generation, get to know their origin, the Queen said, emphasizing the importance of the Festival. She called on the Basotho to turn up in large numbers, and participate more actively than they did in past years.

On behalf of the Festival's management, Mr Mokoenya Chele said the nation is faced with a number of challenges that are a threat to its very existence. Among these are dysfunctional families, where strong values and loving relationships are overcome by unhealthy emotions, abuse and neglect.

This year's festival hopes to play part in nurturing a more positive outlook, and promoting transformation of attitudes and behaviour through a celebration of various aspect of the Basotho culture, he said.

01 September 2005