What may be acceptable in Europe or America may be offensive in Africa- Lesotho! Have you been wondering how Basotho run their everyday life? Their Dos and DONTs? Then welcome to RocApply!! We have dedicated this piece for your information on Basotho culture and customs! Let’s get going...
The people are predominately rural, and getting around mountainous areas has always been difficult. However, the Basotho pony is ideal for local transportation and so breeding and riding these surefooted ponies is very important. In the towns, as well as in the mountains, it will not be unusual to meet horseman, clad in a kobo, his traditional cloak or blanket, who will raise his hand in the traditional greeting "Khotso" - meaning peace.
As one of the few African tribes living in a mountainous locale, the people have developed many unique cultural adaptations to their conditions. The greatly and creatively patterned woven Basotho blanket is one example. In both urban and rural settings it is quite common to encounter a Basotho horseman clad in a 'kobo', who will graciously raise hand in a customary greeting, 'khotso' meaning peace.
All around the country you’ll see people dressed in woollen blankets, often with beautiful patterns. This is the ideal garment for a cold environment, and also has the versatility of keeping the rain off. Basotho are also known for their 'mokorotlo'. Most people here still lead rural lifestyle with scattered picturesque villages and clusters of huts located high in lying areas and on the mid-levels well away from the deep river valleys and potential flood zones. Villages are very structured.
They are made up of a number of kraals, i.e. a collection of buildings belonging to one family. Some are for sleeping, some for storage and one for cooking. Each kraal will also have an enclosure for livestock here. Each village has a chief, or headman, who will fall under the chief for the area. The people here are agriculturalists. The chief distributes the fields around the villages to villagers. Many crops are cultivated including maize, wheat, sorghum, beans and peas as well as vegetables such as onions and cabbage. Many local herbs are also gathered as green vegetables, which the Basotho call Moroho.
Animals are very important in the Basotho society. The Basotho pony represents the best form of transport in the mountains, and donkeys are often used as pack animals. Most families will have some cattle, and oxen are used to plough the sloping mountain fields. Wool is a major source of income both from Merino sheep and mohair from Angora goats, and you’ll see many herds of both deep in the mountains.
Basotho people are also renowned for their crafts. Traditional products have a reputation for quality, individuality and high standards. They have a universal appeal, and have helped to give the country a strong identity. They all make wonderful souvenirs of a visit to Lesotho. The country has a justifiable reputation for its fine wool and mohair weaving. Tapestries, which are completely hand-woven, are works of art that display their own different character, and are noted for their beauty, softness and strength.
The artistic talent of most Basotho women also finds expression in the fine knitwear including pullovers, scarves and other personal items. The herds of sheep and goats that roam the hillsides provide the skins and hides for a plenty supply of sheepskin products. These include warm and comfortable slippers and jackets, whole skins and much more. In addition, the ready supply of hides provides leather for interesting leather goods such as bags, belts and small gift items.
" Its a place to be" - Martin from Canada
