MINISTER of Tourism, Advocate Lekhetho Rakuoane has commended the late Lesotho-born afro-jazz maestro, Tšepo ‘The Village Pope’ Tshola, saying he promoted Sesotho language throughout the world.

He was speaking on behalf of the government of Lesotho at the memorial service of the late musician in Maseru on Thursday.

Adv Rakuoane said to honour the gifted artiste and music producer, the government will grant him a state funeral.
“Tshola was a star that is expected to shine in Thaba-Bosiu as he is the pride of Basotho and Lesotho,” he said, adding that the honour shows how the government values musicians and their contribution to development of the country.
He said the legendary artiste will become a symbol of Basotho’s love of music which will always be remembered as a result of his presence in Thaba-Bosiu.
Adv Rakuoane called upon investors to contribute towards the development of Thaba-Bosiu, which is the pride of Basotho.
On behalf of musicians, famo music legend, Puseletso Seema thanked God for giving them an opportunity to live and learn from Tshola, 68.

She explained how the late artiste guided most of the musicians from both Lesotho and South Africa in his lifetime.

“His passing has been very painful to all of us because we thought he still had time to share his knowledge with us,” Seema said.