What will it take to end music-related killings in Lesotho?

Africa Daily

“People will say nasty things about you in their lyrics. You will then be tempted to respond. That’s how the violence starts” – Molefi “Mantsoaki” Tjemolane – Lesotho musician Famo music is a genre whose origins can be traced back to the 1920s, among Lesotho’s migrant labourers. Over time, it became commercial and formed a big part of national culture, enabling artists to make a living and win awards. But the music is now associated with gangs primarily linked to illegal gold mining in neighbouring South Africa and Lesotho itself. The main factions are known as Terene, draped in yellow traditional blankets over their shoulders, while Seakhi prefer blue and black blankets. Now, the government of Prime Minister Sam Matekane has banned some of the groups accused of fueling the violence. This has angered some musicians. Presenter: Alan Kasujja Guests: Lesotho’s Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police Lebona Lephema as well as Famo musician Molefi “Mantsoaki” Tjemolane