Unearthing Lesotho’s vocal gems
BOKANG MOSHOESHOE
MASERU – Lesotho’s entertainment and creative industry is taking a powerful stride forward with The Kingdom Voices (TKV), a six-month-long reality TV show currently being hosted by Mokoro Creatives, Lesotho’s premier events management and advertising agency.
Mokoro Creatives has carved a name for itself by delivering unforgettable experiences and innovative brand solutions, and The Kingdom Voices is another glowing feather in its cap.
This locally produced reality show goes far beyond entertainment. It is a transformative national platform designed to unearth and showcase raw vocal talent from all 10 districts of Lesotho.
Running annually from March to August, TKV celebrates the power of live music, community unity, and cultural pride while also promoting job creation and national development through the arts.
With a vision rooted in purpose the mission behind The Kingdom Voices is bold and inspiring as it includes to discover hidden vocal talent in Lesotho and give them the spotlight they deserve, promote a love for live music and elevate the local music scene, create a united platform for artists across the country, offer wholesome, family-oriented entertainment, and to stimulate job creation within the music and creative sectors.
Tkv is thoughtfully divided into four stages being; the Makoanyane Hunt, the Mohlomi Honour, the Mohato Spotlight, and lastly the Letsie Crown. The Makoanyane Hunt is the district Level (March to May) Auditions which are held in all 10 districts, free and open to the public.
Contestants compete in categories such as Male Voice, Female Voice, and People’s Voice, judged by a panel of three resident judges and one guest judge. Communities gather to cheer on their own, making it a truly grassroots celebration of talent.
So far, auditions have taken place in eight districts. One district, Mokhotlong, has unfortunately been disqualified, while Berea remains the final district yet to audition.
To date, 294 contestants have registered, with 173 having auditioned, proving the passion and hunger for music that thrives across the country.
The Mohlomi Honour, national level (May to June) From each district, the top three vocalists (30 in total) are brought to Maseru for national induction and training. This includes intensive vocal coaching and rehearsal to prepare them for the next phase.
It’s a time of growth, learning, and transformation.
The Mohato Spotlight, semi-finals (June to July) 15 contestants from the national stage are paired with five vocal coaches (each coach working with three contestants). Here, they are refined into performers ready for prime time. This stage not only tests their talent but also their endurance and passion.
Lastly, the Letsie Crown, grand finale (July to August) where only six finalists remain. Each contestant is given their own vocal coach, fashion designer, and a team of three backing vocalists.
The stage is set for a spectacular final showdown. With lights, music, and style at its peak, the grand finale aims to crown Lesotho’s next vocal sensation.
The recently launched music competition is being hailed as a powerful initiative to promote unity among Basotho and strengthen the country’s economy through the arts.
Speaking at the event, TKV representative, Ntsane Pheko, managing director emphasized the importance of collective effort in developing the local music industry.
“This competition will promote unity amongst Basotho, we urge local businesses and the government to invest in the growth of the music industry, as it is every citizen’s responsibility to contribute to the nation’s economic development,” Pheko stated.
He further added, “We cannot do this alone as TKV, and even the government on its own cannot provide for all of us, we must all work hard together across all sectors of life to achieve our goals. We call on companies and individuals to sponsor and support us in promoting the music industry.”
Renowned artist, Mookho Moqhali, echoed Pheko’s sentiments, stating that Lesotho’s music industry still lags behind and requires significant support. She advised aspiring musicians to pursue backup careers to ensure financial stability, given the current challenges in relying solely on music for income.
Moqhali concluded by urging the government to invest more resources in supporting local artists, highlighting the role of the arts in national development.
TKV achievements so far are already a success story in progress with eight districts auditioned, one disqualified (Mokhotlong), one remaining (Berea), 294 registered contestants, 173 auditioned contestants, 13 local artists have already participated, Mpesa and Eco-Cash voting lines open to the public and a dedicated results system in place.
As The Kingdom Voices advances, Mokoro Creatives is inviting partners to come on board and be part of this transformative journey.
TKV is more than a TV show; it is a movement, it is about lifting voices, building careers, and uniting communities.
It is a celebration of talent, culture, and national pride. As Mokoro Creatives continues to lead the way, The Kingdom Voices stands as a testament to what is possible when creativity, passion, and purpose come together.
