Mapantsula join crusade against crime

 Challenge stereotypes of mapantsula being criminals

Scores of Mapantsula recently flocked to Mochudi for the Pantsula Festival Walk, held under the theme, ‘Unearthing young talent and integrity to accelerate our economy.’ Decked in their best finery, the men, women and children danced their hearts out in parades that had residents eating from the palm of their hands. The festival was the brainchild of a Mochudi based entrepreneur, Caroline Seiketso, who told The Midweek Sun that the project was a response to the increasing crime levels and the stereotypical association of crime with mapantsula.

In an interview with The Midweek Sun, members of the Zola (Old Naledi) mapantsula movement, Fejus Modise, who goes by the nickname BraFej and Senki Chaba also known as BraTiza, noted that it was important for mapantsula to build trust within communities. They said that some people were still indifferent to them and suspected them of criminal activities but it was up to them to change that perception. Modise said that they had recently met Kgosi Somolekae Rapula of Old Naledi, who applauded them for the good work they are doing.

“He said that the pantsula dance competitions and festivals would help get youth off the street.” Chaba noted that when a crime is committed, blame is squared on a lepantsula because of the stereotypical perception that they are criminals. “Someone once lost about 50 bucks and wanted to accuse us. I looked at the person thinking: I am wearing an outfit worth more than P10, 000, why would I steal a mere 50 bucks?”

When queried on how they afford the expensive garb synonymous with pantsula culture, he said that the clothes should not necessarily be everyday wear. “One can buy one or two outfits for special occasions and dress in normal affordable clothes the rest of the time. We often encourage youngsters living off a budget to lay-bye clothes and pay them off slowly as and when they can,” he said. They have plans to roll out pantsula movement to other parts of the country and use the platforms they get to fight crime in communities.