Listen to Mpho Molikeng’s Likhomo Matšela

The song pays homage to the late praise poet Letsema Matšela, who at the height of 1970s and 1980s American and European pop taught the Basotho music of dihoba.

The song encourages young people to take pride in their culture and pleads with the authorities in Lesotho to erect a statue in honour of Matšela. The ‘Matlama’ singer also appeals to those in power to rename the national highway after Matšela for his preservation the Basotho culture.

‘Likhomo Matšela’ samples Matšela's song ‘Majoro’. It was produced by Msokolara and is available for streaming and download on digital platforms.

“The title of the song is inspired by Sesotho salutation likhomo, which loosely translates to ‘cows’ and we all know cows in pre-colonial Africa meant currency, royalty, wealth and respect,” Molikeng told Music In Africa. “I am paying homage to the greatest poet who lived in his era. I can only hope that the powers that be in Lesotho will heed the call. Lesotho needs healing – may this be one of many small acts that could help.

“As a musician of indigenous music, I always strive to teach Basotho across the board to find our own voice in these ever-changing times. I also want the younger generation to take their own culture to heart and wear it with pride – hence the hip hop beat on this track. In this way, we as a people can exist to eternity.”

‘Likhomo Matšela’ is available for streaming and purchase via Bandcamp.