New radio station in town

NTHAKO MAJORO 

MASERU – A newly established local radio station, Boiketlo FM, is set to host a gala dinner tonight at the ’Manthabiseng Convention Centre to commemorate its official launch, 11 months since the Arrival Centre-based commercial radio station commenced broadcasting.

Prior to the gala dinner, the station’s management was scheduled to hold a press conference where the Minister of Communications, Science, and Technology, Nthati Moorosi, is expected to officiate the opening of the radio station.

“We are excited to announce the official launch of the radio station, with a gala dinner scheduled to take place at the Manthabiseng Convention Centre on April 12,” said Boiketlo FM Station Manager, Keneuoe Ntholeng. “Prior to the gala dinner, we are organising a press conference in the morning, during which the Minister of Communications, Science, and Technology will officially inaugurate the radio station,” Ntholeng added.

She said invited dignitaries for the gala launch include Prime Minister Ntsokoane Sam Matekane, Minister of Sports, Tourism, and Culture, Motlatsi Maqelepo, and Minister Moorosi, along with other Cabinet ministers and government officials.

“We have also extended invitations to the Commander of the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF), the Commissioner of the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS), and the Commissioner of the Lesotho Correctional Service,” Ntholeng said.

Presidents of both the Lesotho Sport and Recreation Commission (LSRC), Litšitso Motšeremeli, and the Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC), Tlali Rampooana, along with the President of the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA), King’s Counsel Salemane Phafane, have also been invited.

Leseli FM’s renowned sports commentator, Thabo Kofa, is slated to grace the gala alongside local musicians like Mantša, Sentšo, and Dj Counter Force, among others. Boiketlo FM was established by three Basotho nationals, Nelson Vicente, Mohau Soro, and Ntholeng, with a vision to contribute to the advancement of sports, agriculture, and tourism in the country.

The radio station commenced broadcasting on May 20 last year, after its establishment in October 2019, and obtained a licence on May 3, 2023. Broadcasting from the Arrival Centre in Maseru, Boiketlo FM currently employs 20 staff members, with the majority serving as presenters. The red carpet event will commence at 5:45 p.m., followed by the gala launch from 6:00 p.m. until 11:59 p.m. Currently, there are more than 11 radio stations in Lesotho, in addition to several community radio stations.