Sesotho Women in Literature Museum stir sleepy Ladybrand
. . . as Mantsopa Municipality marks Women’s Month
STAFF REPORTER
LADYBRAND – In the heart of Ladybrand, a sense of anticipation hung in the air on Thursday, August 29. The historic Ladybrand Town Hall buzzed with energy as the Mantsopa Local Municipality ((MLM) hosted an inspiring event to celebrate Women’s Month. This year’s theme focused on Sesotho Women in Literature, a tribute to the voices that have long shaped the rich cultural heritage of Basotho.
The gathering, led by the National Sesotho Literature Museum, marked a significant moment for the town and the literary community. As guests took their seats, the event commenced with a series of protocol observations. Molale Shuping, a respected figure in the community, captivated the audience with a lesson on the symbolism of the South African flag. His words reverberated through the hall, reminding everyone of the unity and history embedded in the colours of the flag.
This was followed by a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, led by the soulful voice of Mme Tšenoli, which filled the room with pride and reverence. The opening remarks came from the Mayor of Mantsopa Local Municipality, Councillor Mamsie Tsoene. With warmth and enthusiasm, she expressed her gratitude to the Sesotho Literature Museum and the Department of Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation for choosing Mantsopa as the host of such a momentous event.
Councillor Tsoene shared her personal connection to literature, reminiscing about how her father, a writer himself, had instilled in her a deep love for words and stories.
Her voice wavered with emotion as she spoke of the profound impact literature has had on her life, and she paid a heartfelt tribute to the renowned author Pule Lechesa. “Lechesa’s contributions to the literary world,” she noted, “have left an indelible mark on our community and beyond. His passion and talent are a beacon of inspiration.” The mayor’s words set the tone for the day, as she encouraged all the women present to embrace the wisdom that would be shared and to allow the event to inspire them to pursue their own literary dreams.
Her remarks were met with applause, a testament to the resonance of her message. As the programme continued, Tšeliso Masolane, the Acting Deputy Director of the Sesotho Literature Museum, took the stage. His address was a brief yet powerful reminder of the origins of the museum and its mission to preserve and promote Sesotho literature.
Masolane emphasised the importance of nurturing a love for language and literature, not just as an academic pursuit but as a living, breathing part of the Basotho identity. His words served as a call to action for the audience, urging them to engage with their cultural heritage through writing and storytelling.The event reached a crescendo with the much-anticipated launch of the book The Life and Times of Makhokolotso, written by esteemed biographer and researcher, Lechesa. Before the official unveiling, the crowd was led in a spirited song by Boitumelo Mokopanela, whose voice seemed to echo the collective pride and anticipation of everyone present.
Lehlohonolo Mariti, manager of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and a colleague of Lechesa, was tasked with introducing the book to the eager audience.
He read the introduction and preface, which had been penned by the distinguished Professor Nhlanhla Maake. In his preface, Professor Maake highlighted the importance of promoting and preserving Sesotho literature. He praised Lechesa for his dedication to celebrating the contributions of Sesotho female writers, particularly Mokhomo, whose life and work were immortalised in the new biography. When Lechesa finally took to the stage, the room fell silent in anticipation. With humility and grace, he shared the story behind the creation of his book, The Life and Times of Makhokolotso.
He expressed his deep gratitude to the family of Mokhomo, whose willingness to share their beloved relative’s life story made the book possible. He spoke passionately about Mokhomo’s pioneering role as the first Mosotho woman in South Africa to write a book in Sesotho. Her love for Sesotho literature, particularly poetry, had served as a powerful tool for her during the challenging apartheid era, allowing her to express her experiences and emotions in a profound way.
Lechesa also revealed an exciting discovery—an unpublished manuscript written by Mokhomo, which he hoped would soon be shared with the world. His research into Mokhomo’s life had been a labour of love, and he expressed his gratitude to those who had supported him throughout the journey, including literary giants like Professor David Ambrose and Professor Nhlanhla Maake.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Mantoa Molete, a lecturer at the Central University of Technology. In her speech, Dr. Molete praised Lechesa for his unique approach to highlighting the work of Sesotho women in literature. Unlike many critics, she noted, Lechesa’s work embraced the beauty of women’s writing without diminishing their contributions. She urged the audience to appreciate and preserve their culture by engaging in the practice of speaking and writing in their native language.
The event concluded with a lively Question & Answer session, where the pride and admiration of the Mantsopa community were evident. Attendees praised Lechesa for his dedication to Sesotho literature and expressed their excitement for future projects. As the day drew to a close, Masolane returned to the stage to deliver his closing remarks. He spoke of Lechesa as an honorary figure, a man whose knowledge and contributions should be celebrated and cherished.
The event ended on a high note, with attendees continuing their literary discussions over refreshments, leaving the hall with a renewed sense of purpose and pride in their cultural heritage.
