MOST local DJs have quit their beloved profession because they are unable to perform due to restrictions caused by recurring COVID-19 lockdowns that have left them destitute.
society
Feb. 5, 2021
KABELO MASOABI
2 min read
No green light for local entertainers
Dj Pascal
Some of them have actually resorted to selling off their expensive sound equipment either for cash or in exchange of certain goods they desperately need, Metro has learnt. Under the orange colour level, public events and indoor parties are completely not permitted.
“My projection gives me that things are not going to change anytime soon. It might take several years before things return to normal and that says everybody must hustle for survival, hence I have decided to quit and hunt for a stable job,” says DJ Thipsy of Maseru East.
Molemo Khomari popularly known as DJ Capisto from Lithabaneng in Teyateyaneng, says entertainment plays an important role in rehabilitating people, adding that it would be important for the government to permit small controlled parties to be held so that people like him do not totally run out of business.
“People are stressed because of the prevailing situation. They need to be rehabilitated from time to time, dance and music are other basic elements ideal for releasing stress. It is our responsibility as event organisers to enforce stipulated guidelines to ensure that partygoers are safe. I mean, if 50 people are allowed to attend church and funerals why can’t they party on that scale?” asked Thabang Rantalane aka DJ Darling K.
Celebrated DJ Daverts owns sound equipment worth thousands of maloti but like fellow entertainers, he is unable to put his expensive gear to better use because of the lockdown.
It is rumoured that the famous local DJ was at one point during the previous lockdown forced to beg his supporters to each donate M1 to him in order to feed his family.
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A local DJ performing at a party before the last lockdown
“Is this the end of entertainment industry in this country? We ask because there are countries most hit by the pandemic but they recognise the significance of the industry, the role it plays in tourism, job creation, business opportunities and rehabilitation,” several local entertainers protested on social media platforms.
However, the Minister of Tourism and Culture Advocate Lekhetho Rakuoane still remains adamant that entertainment events should remain closed in order to curb further spread of the virus.
He argued that alcohol which is largely consumed at parties is one of super spreaders of the pandemic.
“People buy their drinks and go home. That is, people should not gather at public bars or other selling points of booze,” he said.
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