The Quest for Biodiversity Preservation and Conservation in Lesotho: The Basotho Folklore and Literary Contribution

Mabohlokoa Khanyetsi; Mary Mensele

doi:10.25159/2663-6697/13165

Authors

Mabohlokoa Khanyetsi University of the Free State
Mary Mensele University of the Free State https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5933-0165

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6697/13165

Keywords:

oral literature , written literature , nature, biodiversity, preserve, conserve

Abstract

Researchers have discovered that both oral and written literature have aesthetic, entertainment, cultural, political, and social values. Based on the literature read for this study, none has shown the importance of both oral and written literature as a strategy to preserve and conserve biodiversity. This study intends to find out how Sesotho oral and written literature can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity in Lesotho. This study is a desktop study and used secondary data. A qualitative approach was used in the data analysis. The functionalist approach is used to respond to the research questions. The researchers conclude that both oral and written forms of Sesotho literature are still relevant in the 21st century, and through strategies derived from it, contemporary challenges can be addressed. Therefore, this study recommends that scholars of both oral and written Sesotho literature should consider the beauty of nature and appreciation of biodiversity in this genre to retain the relevance of the literature and contribute towards conserving nature and biodiversity.

Author Biography

Mabohlokoa Khanyetsi, University of the Free State

University of the Free State, African Languages Department, Qwaqwa Campus, Lecturer

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