Art and Culture

July 9 2025

National arts festival kicks off

Gaborone ignites with creativity as national arts festival kicks off

The air in Gaborone was abuzz with energy and vibrant expression this past weekend, as the National Arts Festival successfully launched its first leg across various Gaborone constituencies.

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Under the inspiring theme, ‘Recognizing our cultural diversity and celebrating the freedom of our expressions’, the event, hosted by the National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB), drew thousands of artists, performers, and art enthusiasts.

The festival transformed three key Gaborone locations; Rainbow High School Hall, Maitisong Theatre, and Joy City Park, into dynamic hubs of creativity. These venues proudly showcased the rich artistic tapestry of Gaborone North, South, Central, Bonnington South, and North constituencies.

Attendees were treated to a diverse range of artistic expressions, from the rhythmic beats of traditional song and dance to compelling drama, evocative poetry, lively polka dance, and side-splitting comedy, among many other captivating performances.

Otsetswe Koboyankwe, NACB’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, eloquently captured the essence of this year’s festival. “This year’s festival is a celebration of identity, community, and creativity. We saw incredible talent emerge from all corners of Gaborone, and we are proud to be an organization that uplifts the arts at grassroots level.”

PERFOMANCES HELD AT MAITISONG THEATRE

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National-Arts-1-1024x1024-500x500 National arts festival kicks off

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Beyond the sheer spectacle of performances, Koboyankwe emphasized the festival’s profound significance. “This festival represents a powerful platform for cultural preservation, youth empowerment, cultural tourism, and national storytelling. It is a reminder that our heritage is not only alive but evolving as shaped by the voices and visions of today’s artists. Moving forward, we remain committed to supporting inclusive, sustainable spaces where creativity can thrive and communities can connect through the universal language of the arts.”

The festival was brimming with memorable moments, with several acts earning special recognition. The Amateur Polka Dance Group captivated audiences with their energy and precision, securing first place in the Gaborone North Constituency and celebrating the lively heritage of polka. Equally moving were Dineo Tsa Tumelo and Soul Redeemers, who both clinched first place in the Clap and Tap Category in their respective constituencies, captivating hearts with their soulful and disciplined renditions that honored deep-rooted spiritual traditions.

The resounding success of the Gaborone leg stands as a powerful testament to the enduring power of the arts in fostering social cohesion, national pride, and cultural sustainability. Over the next five weeks, the festival will continue its journey, progressing to different constituencies across the country.

This nationwide tour promises to unearth a wealth of talent and showcase an even broader spectrum of cultural artistic expressions. Following the constituency festivals, the event will culminate in the much-anticipated Regional Festivals and the grand National Carnival.

The NACB says it remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting and supporting artists across Botswana through the National Arts Festival, ensuring that artists are the primary beneficiaries of this enriching program.

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July 5 2025

Newz the Poet a rising lyrical architect

Localthreads.online Art and Culture, Lifestyle 3

Botswana’s burgeoning music scene is quite vibrant, and in it, a new voice is commanding attention, weaving narratives with raw lyricism and undeniable motivational energy. Newz Da Poet, signed to Five01Five Records in 2023 and deeply rooted in the Bredren Over Everything collective, is rapidly solidifying his position as a compelling force in authentic hip-hop.

His artistry is a testament to the power of introspective storytelling, delivered with a punchy, impactful flow that resonates deeply with listeners. Newz Da Poet’s musical style is characterized by its unfiltered honesty and a relentless drive to inspire.

He frequently collaborates with the equally talented Ville Jahkour and the masterful producer SimbA Tha SoundBendA, a partnership that consistently yields dynamic beats perfectly complementing his sharp wordplay. This synergy is evident across his discography, shaping a sound that is both contemporary and rooted in the essence of classic hip-hop.

The track currently igniting the airwaves and online platforms is “Mabhena,” the lead single from his anticipated debut LP, Bad Newz 2. Featuring Ville Jahkour and produced by SimbA Tha SoundBendA, “Mabhena” has quickly become a fan favorite.

Its emotional depth and compelling storytelling have garnered enthusiastic reactions from listeners, with comments like “The villain who died a hero” and “Your beat selections are insane” flooding social media. This single is more than just a song; it’s a testament to Newz Da Poet’s ability to craft narratives that stick, leaving a lasting impression.

Beyond “Mabhena,” Newz Da Poet’s discography boasts other notable collaborations, including “Lyyte It Up” (featuring Mufasa Da Shoota and El RiCCo), showcasing his versatility. He also touches on more personal themes with heartfelt tracks like “Oh Momma (Take Me Home)” and unleashes fiery energy with the diss anthem “We da Hooliganz,” all benefiting from SimbA Tha SoundBendA’s expert production.

Newz Da Poet’s ascent is bolstered by a robust network of affiliations. Five01Five Records provides crucial creative and distribution support, allowing him the freedom to express his artistic vision authentically.

Simultaneously, his involvement with Bredren Over Everything offers a supportive network of fellow artists and producers, fostering a collaborative environment that undoubtedly contributes to the polished quality of his work. This collective spirit is a cornerstone of his artistic journey, emphasizing camaraderie and cultural uplift.

With the buzz surrounding Bad Newz 2 and the impact of “Mabhena,” the anticipation for Newz Da Poet’s solo debut album, Fire On My Eyes, is palpable. Fans can expect more strategic releases through Five01Five Records and a deeper immersion into the Bredren Over Everything sphere.

The continued partnerships with talents like Ville Jahkour and SimbA Tha SoundBendA promise a future filled with even more powerful collaborations and groundbreaking music. Newz Da Poet is not just a rising musician; he’s a storyteller, a motivator, and a true voice of his generation, poised for breakout success.

July 4 2025

Thuto Retiyo Wayei culture story

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Thuto Retiyo revitalizes Wayei culture through music

WhatsApp-Image-2025-07-03-at-15.18.39-683x1024-600x899 Thuto Retiyo Wayei culture story

Today’s era is where global sounds dominate, and a quiet revolution is stirring within the Wayei community. While many contemporary artists lean into English lyrics, often for broader appeal or perhaps a perceived sense of modernity, there’s a profound beauty and power in returning to one’s roots.

The Wayei people are discovering, or perhaps rediscovering, that their native language isn’t just a medium for communication; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with history, identity, and an unparalleled artistic spirit.

But, in the heart of the Okavango Delta, where the emerald waters weave a tapestry of life, Thuto Retiyo, was born and raised amidst the Wayei tribe in the serene village of Seronga.

To emerge from the bosom of the Wayei is to carry a torch of dignity and a banner of pride, for theirs is a culture to brag about, a heritage to call their own. They are the children of the Delta, their lives intertwined with the rhythm of the seasons, their hands skilled in the ancient arts of ploughing, fishing, and hunting.

Through the veins of their land, they glide in Mokoro canoes, handcrafted from wood, truly at home on the water as a fish in the sea. The melodies of Retiyo’s native Wayei language are not just songs; they are whispers of preservation, a bulwark against the tide of silence that threatens to swallow his tongue whole.

“It grieves my heart to see the younger generation, adrift in a sea of other languages, their Wayei fading like a distant memory. When I ask why, the answer often strikes a chord of sadness: their parents, in a misguided attempt to ease their path, never spoke the language at home,” Retiyo said in an exclusive interview.

Now, for these young souls, speaking Wayei is like trying to catch the wind in a net. Yet, when Retiyo steps onto the stage and unleash the power of his ancestral tongue, people lean in, captivated, hanging on every word. It’s as if the spirit of the Delta itself flows through his voice, drawing them into the rich tapestry of their stories.

“Our traditions, like ancient baobabs, stand firm against the winds of change. Bongwale, a sacred passage where a girl, blossoming into womanhood, is cherished and celebrated after five days of quiet introspection, is but one shining example.”

He says their tables groan under the weight of delicacies like Tswii, Nxhuma, and Thapi, born from the fertile land and bountiful waters. They are keepers of the earth, their hands tending to pastoral farms and vibrant horticulture.

And when the sun dips below the horizon, the air thrums with the energy of Kharakhara and Seperu dances, their bodies adorned in the graceful Makgabi and Mojamburu. Yet, a shadow looms large, a specter of concern for their beloved Wayei tribe.

The younger generation, many of them speaking their language hesitantly or not at all, puts them at a crossroads. “We must stand tall, a united front, to ensure our culture doesn’t become a forgotten melody in the symphony of time.”

WhatsApp-Image-2025-07-03-at-15.18.40-1-683x1024-580x832 Thuto Retiyo Wayei culture story

WhatsApp-Image-2025-07-03-at-15.18.40-2-683x1024-580x750 Thuto Retiyo Wayei culture story

Retiyo’s music is a living testament to this fight, a vibrant echo of the Wayei heritage. The deep thrum of drums, resonant with the spirit of his Wayei ancestors, weaves through his songs, a heartbeat for their vanishing traditions.

“Singing in my native tongue is not just an artistic choice; it is an act of defiance, a sacred promise to keep our culture alive. To the young Wayei hearts who feel adrift, disconnected from their roots, I implore you: let us journey back, back to the wellspring of our being. Our culture is our pride, the very marrow of our bones.”

A nation without its culture is like a ship without a rudder, lost at sea. “Let us call upon our ancestors, their wisdom a guiding star, to lead us home. My dream, a beacon in the night, is to see the essence of my culture emblazoned in every magazine, every publication I lay my eyes upon. For I am a pure Wayei, and my heart beats for the preservation of all that we are.”

July 4 2025

Basket weaving in Botswana redefines culture

Localthreads.online Art and Culture, CULTURE 0

Basket weaving as a breathtaking art of culture

Culture really is such a phenomenal phenomenon. It is beautiful, inspiring and evolving. Most people create cultural activities and products from what exists around them. From just bare materials found in nature, the end products are breathtaking.

Weaving is an age-old tradition passed down from mother to daughter, a symbol of pride in a rich culture. Baskets are a popular craft product in Botswana, mainly woven by women of the Bayeyi and Hambukushu tribes in the Northwest part of Botswana. Some of the villages include Shorobe, Etsha, Maun, Seronga, Gumare and Shakawe.

Along the shores of the might Okavango River, many livelihoods depend on basket weaving; crafting supports the entire family and supplements an incomethat allows them to feed, clothe, and educate their children.

Crafthood endeavors to support this movement by hosting quality control and product development workshops and facilitating access to markets. In doing so, this ensures that weaving culture is preserved and will continue to evolve in the future.

Each basket patter has a unique story and different types of baskets serve different purposes; closed baskets with lids are used for storing harvests of grain and sorghum, while open bowl-shaped baskets are used to carry items like threshed and pounded winnowing grain.

Tears of the giraffe is one pattern of baskets found in Botswana. The giraffe cannot be hunted easily; however, one of these creatures could easily feed an entire village when caught by a traditional hunting band. While their long legs would usually allow them to outrun the hunters, good horses and dogs exhaust a giraffe’s stamina. Unable to run anymore, the giraffe would lie down as the hunters closed in with arrows and bows, crying a final plea for life.

Another pattern of a basket is the roof of the rondavel, representing the traditional thatching pattern used by the Wayei community. During their assimilation by the cultural majority of the Batswana, these indigenous peoples were forced to become serfs and construct their own accommodation. Using their artistic nature to create this trademark roof patter, the distinct nature of the thatching served as both a form of identification and an outlet of expression.

When walking behind a group of cows, women noticed that the urine of the animals fell in a back-and-forth pattern, as they were herded, thus inspiring the urine trail of the bull pattern.

Arguably the most popular pattern, forehead of the Zebra is a literal interpretation of a Zebra’s face. It specifically highlights the star-shaped marking on their foreheads. On the other hand, the knees of the tortoise patterns are inspired by the gentle V-shape created by the tortoise’s knees as it walks. The Elephant trunk, also known as Night and Day has evolved into a basket pattern.

Culture enthusiasts say that this pattern is inspired by the Ying Yang symbol; however, modern interpretations state that it is meant to represent an elephant trunk drinking water.

July 2 2025

Serurubele redefines Setswana culture

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SERURUBELE A cultural weaver bracing Setswana heritage

In the tapestry of Setswana culture, where rich threads of poetry, ancient wisdom, and timeless practices intertwine, there walks a young soul named Serurubele. He is a living embodiment of art and a guardian of heritage, a true phoenix rising from the ashes of forgotten traditions.

As the first president of Botswana once declared, “A nation without culture is a lost nation,” and with Serurubele, Botswana is undoubtedly in good hands, poised to weather any storm.

Serurubele’s poetic spirit and cultural fervor were not acquired, but rather a birthright, blossoming within him from a tender age. He once plied his trade in the health sector, yet even there, the muse of poetry often called, a whisper that has now grown into a commercial symphony.

Though he holds a Bachelor of Public Health from the Institute of Development Management (IDM), earned in the year of 2021, his heart beats to a different drum, one that echoes with the ancient rhythms of his people.

He has left no stone unturned in his valiant quest to enlighten and preserve Setswana culture, saving it from the clutches of oblivion. He is a clarion call of heritage, a princely voice in Setswana poetry, and a master storyteller of Mainane and Dithamalakane.

Serurubele is a cultural custodian, having sown the seeds of cultural education among the young ones from the grassroots. His voice now graces the airwaves on Duma FM, through a radio feature aptly named Sekhutlwane sa Bannye, a small corner for the young.

Presently, he is a man of the wild, navigating through the verdant bush across the country, on a treasure hunt for fresh, indigenous Mooka, the elusive stingless bee honey. This endeavor is more than a mere venture; it is a pilgrimage to rekindle the flame of Setswana culture, one that takes immense pride in its indigenous fare, especially those gifts gathered from nature’s generous hand.

Traditionally, the Batswana were children of their environment, living by the bounty their surroundings offered for survival. In times of old, they were hunters, gatherers, and farmers, a way of life that, like a fading echo, has all but vanished.

For Serurubele, this quest for Mooka has presented an unexpected turn, a golden opportunity to harvest and package it as a commercial enterprise. What began as a noble endeavor to resurrect culture has revealed a honeypot, brimming with potential for his own well-being.

Mooka, a hidden gem, is typically found nestled within the earth, in places untouched by the restless tread of human and beast. It is the liquid gold crafted by stingless bees, who dwell beneath the surface, diligently gathering pollen and other natural treasures.

Serurubele reveals he has been working hand in glove with the National Agricultural Research and Development Institute (NARDI), a government research body dedicated to enriching the nation’s agricultural contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by optimizing the use of agricultural and natural products.

This institution also champions inclusion and the sharing of knowledge, a mandate that led NARDI and Serurubele to cross paths, particularly concerning the Mooka project. In their shared journey, Serurubele came to grasp the myriad nutritional boons of Mooka, discovering its rich array of nutrients and its superior nutritional value compared to other kinds of honey. His Mooka, a pure elixir, contains no preservatives and is sold in its freshest state.

Mooka is affectionately dubbed “Mother Medicine,” with a growing chorus of traditional practitioners and researchers advocating for its use. The documented benefits of its regular consumption are nothing short of remarkable: it is believed to be a balm for asthma and allergies, a comfort for arthritis, a remedy for hepatitis, a healer of bladder infections, a soother of ulcers, and a vanquisher of dental pain.

Serurubele is not merely preserving culture; he is shaping the future, guiding the young ones to embrace their heritage and steering them away from the societal quicksand’s of today. He stands as a beacon, a shining example of the young leaders so desperately needed to carry forward traditions and practices that hold the key to safeguarding the next generation, ensuring they do not lose their way.

WhatsApp-Image-2025-07-02-at-09.00.58-1-1024x684-561x673 Serurubele redefines Setswana culture

July 2 2025

Dr Lame Pusetso earns prestigious Asian Prize franchise rights

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DR LAME PUSETSO : A new chapter for African literature with The Asian Prizes

Dr-Lame-local-threads Dr Lame Pusetso earns prestigious Asian Prize franchise rights

Dr. Lame Pusetso, the visionary author and force behind Poeticblood Publishers, is once again breaking new ground in the literary world. Her unwavering resilience and hard work are truly bearing fruit, as her company has secured the exclusive rights to administer The Asian Prizes Regional Awards for Africa. This landmark achievement is set to change the game for writers across the continent.

Through a prestigious collaboration with The Asian Group of Literature and Trogon Global, Poeticblood Publishers now holds the keys to the kingdom for promoting, organizing, and presenting these esteemed literary accolades across all 54 African nations.

This exclusive franchise, effective for five years, means that African writers, poets, and artists will no longer have to go the extra mile to gain international recognition. A globally celebrated platform for excellence in literature and the arts is now right on their doorstep.

The genesis of this powerful partnership emerged after Dr. Pusetso was appointed a 2025 Jury Member for The Asian Prize. This opened the door to a shared vision: acknowledging the immense and diverse literary talent teeming across Africa.

Poeticblood Publishers’ proven track record, particularly with the successful Botswana Literature Awards and the launch of 50 local authors, made them the perfect fit. The Asian Group of Literature recognized a kindred spirit in their commitment to elevating African literature on a global stage, and this alignment of values helped pave the way for the franchise.

For emerging writers in Botswana and throughout Africa, this franchise is nothing short of a game-changer. It offers a prestigious springboard to showcase their work to a broader audience, opening doors not only to recognition but also to crucial networking and publication opportunities.

It’s a chance to rub shoulders with other literary professionals and potentially seal publishing deals that might otherwise have been out of reach. This initiative provides a much-needed platform for African voices to rise above the noise and make their mark internationally.

To ensure these awards resonate deeply and reach far and wide, Poeticblood Publishers plans to hit the ground running by engaging closely with local literary communities and cultural organizations across the continent.

This means tailoring the awards to the diverse cultural landscapes of Africa, collaborating with regional literary festivals, and leveraging social media campaigns in multiple languages. These efforts will ensure the awards are accessible and inclusive, truly reflecting the rich tapestry of Botswana and African culture.

June 26 2025

Spotlight on Création Botswana: A Designer’s Story

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Spotlight on Création Botswana: A Designer’s Story

From Maun to the world stage, discover how one designer is transforming Botswana’s fashion landscape…

This month, Local Threads Magazine features Neo Karolo Maretlwaneng, a fashion designer from Maun, Disaneng. Neo is one of 28 designers taking part in the Création Botswana program. This program aims to help fashion businesses grow and improve the local fashion industry through global partnerships, training, and market development.

The Création Botswana program was created by the French Embassy and Alliance Française. It is part of a larger plan by France and Botswana to invest in creative industries to support sustainable development and economic growth. We spoke with Neo, the creator of her brand Mood Craft Design, to learn about her journey, how this program has helped her, and her future goals. Her brand uses her family’s history and stories, inspired by her grandmother’s handcraft, in its designs.

Mood Craft’s Heart: A Story from Family

Q: Briefly describe your brand’s aesthetic and what inspires your designs.
Neo: ” Mood Craft is a heartfelt brand rooted in heritage and storytelling. Our aesthetic blends nostalgic handcraft with contemporary African identity. Inspired by my grandmother’s tailoring and her handmade dolls, I channel that same nurturing energy into every design. Our work is minimalist yet emotive, with textures and textiles that tell stories of culture, resilience, and warmth.”

IMG_3868 Spotlight on Création Botswana: A Designer's Story

Q: What motivated you to pursue fashion design in Botswana?
Neo: “Growing up watching my grandmother sew by hand, I developed an early fascination with textiles and garment-making. After studying Textile Design, I returned home and struggled to find opportunities in the fashion space. But my sister’s need for a baby weight bag led to unexpected demand, pushing me to start creating and selling. That moment of necessity turned into purpose, and I saw the gap I could fill with authentic, homegrown designs.”

Création Botswana: Helping Dreams Grow

Q: What specific aspects of the Création Botswana program have been most impactful for you as a designer?
Neo: ” The mentorship and professional development sessions stood out. The program provided access to industry experts, creative direction, and business tools I did not have before. It gave structure to my creativity and expanded my vision beyond just making garments—into building a brand with impact.”

WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-25-at-18.56.11-1 Spotlight on Création Botswana: A Designer's Story

IMG_3870 Spotlight on Création Botswana: A Designer's Story

WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-25-at-18.56.11 Spotlight on Création Botswana: A Designer's Story

Q: How has the program helped you overcome challenges or seize new opportunities within the local fashion industry?
Neo: “Création Botswana helped validate my work and gave me a platform to showcase my designs beyond my immediate circle. It boosted my confidence, helped me refine my craft, and connected me with networks that continue to support my growth. Opportunities for collaboration and visibility grew significantly through the program.”

The Future: Weaving New Paths
Q: What are your aspirations for your brand’s future, and how do you see Création Botswana contributing to those goals?

Neo: ” I envision Mood Craft evolving into a lifestyle brand that offers not just fashion, but also storytelling through textile art, home accessories, and baby essentials. I want to empower other young women through employment and skill-sharing. Création Botswana continues to play a part by exposing me to opportunities, potential investors, and broader audiences.”

Q: What message would you share with other aspiring designers in Botswana about the importance of programs like this?
Neo: ” Programs like Création Botswana are more than just exposure—they are incubators of dreams. They help transform raw passion into sustainable business. If you’re a designer with a story to tell, such platforms will give you the tools, community, and confidence to take that story to the world.”

The journey of Neo Karolo Maretlwaneng and Mood Craft shows the power of passion, the strength of local talent, and how important support programs like Création Botswana are. They help creative dreams come true. As Mood Craft continues to grow, it is not just making beautiful fabrics but also inspiring the next generation of designers in Botswana.

June 25 2025

Culture Spears hints at new music, exciting collaborations

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Culture Spears hints at new music, exciting collaborations

After years of steadfastly preserving Setswana culture through their vibrant music, multi-award-winning traditional group Culture Spears continues to lead the charge. This week, the iconic ensemble went live on social media from the studio, exciting fans by hinting at and even sampling an upcoming new song.

Lead singer and founding member, Kabelo Mogwe, brought the entire team together, later requesting the producer to play a snippet of their unreleased track. While remaining somewhat elusive about the exact launch date, Mogwe assured fans that the release would be “sooner than later.”

“We are coming in stronger and fiercer like before,” Mogwe declared. “The name of the song is ‘Ha Dina Mahala,’ and it is such a poetic song that speaks to what adults will understand better. It is still cooking and once ready and ripe, it will be available on all digital platforms.”

Adding to the anticipation, Mogwe hinted that another song is also in the works, featuring a collaboration with another artist. Though cagey with specifics, the artist is strongly suggested to be one of South Africa’s prominent “Lekompo” artists, with speculation pointing towards either Makhadzi or Shandesh.

The tantalizing piece of the song shared during the live session featured the lyrics “Re bina Lekompo,” loosely translated as “We are dancing Lekompo,” further fueling excitement about this cross-border collaboration.

Culture Spears has, over the years, become an epitome of cultural preservation. The troupe has travelled extensively across the globe, proudly showcasing Botswana’s rich traditional music and captivating stage presence. Their enduring popularity and visible affection across Southern Africa firmly establish them as the leading traditional dance group in the country.

Their enduring appeal was vividly demonstrated this past weekend when Culture Spears was invited to perform at the Clash of Legends football extravaganza in Francistown. A trending video from the event captured South African legendary footballer, Itumeleng Khune, joyfully dancing alongside the group to their all-time hit, “Ntjanyana Borikhirikhi.” Khune later shared the video on his Facebook account, captioning it, “Fun was had in Francistown. Culture Spears is my all-time favorite group. Such beauty.”

The group recently returned from a warmly received visit to the Northern Cape in South Africa. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a prominent opposition political party in South Africa, has shown consistent fondness for Culture Spears, regularly inviting the traditional group to perform at their political rallies almost every year.

Culture Spears was formed in 1991 under Kulenyane Studios. They boast a formidable discography of five albums: Korone, Kulenyane, Khudu, Kuweletsana, and Kulanche. Their album Kulenyane, produced by Zimbabwean producer Johane Maseko, was an instant sensation, selling an astounding 60,000 units in its early stages.

Over the years, the group has grown exponentially, earning the prestigious Presidential Award of Merit. In a testament to their international recognition, they were invited by former South African president, Thabo Mbeki, to perform for him in 2008.

As Culture Spears prepares to unleash new music, their continued dedication to their craft and their role as cultural ambassadors remains unwavering, promising more timeless contributions to the African music landscape.

WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-24-at-20.25.43-1024x640-600x375 Culture Spears hints at new music, exciting collaborations

June 24 2025

A QUEEN’S WELCOME: Miss Botswana goes home

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This past weekend, the village of Masunga erupted in an unprecedented display of unity and pride, rolling out the red carpet for its very own queen, Miss Botswana 2025, Ruth Thomas.

WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-24-at-11.58.10-768x1024-574x666 A QUEEN’S WELCOME: Miss Botswana goes home

WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-24-at-11.58.08-2-986x1024-480x416 A QUEEN’S WELCOME: Miss Botswana goes home

In a historic first, Masunga celebrated the homecoming of the initial Miss Botswana ever to hail from their community, transforming it into a truly unforgettable event. The celebrations kicked off with a spectacular motorcade that weaved through the village, bringing the streets to life with joy and excitement.

The festivities continued with a beautifully organized celebration at the Masunga Main Kgotla, where the community gathered in overwhelming numbers to honor their daughter. A heartfelt school tour allowed Ruth to reconnect with students and community members, sharing inspiration and embodying homegrown excellence.

The Miss Botswana Organization witnessed not just the celebration of a crown, but a powerful testament to unity, heritage, and the deep love within the Masunga community. The turnout, the powerful presence, and the sheer generosity of the people and leadership of Masunga were truly touching.

Ruth was showered with an incredible array of gifts, all made possible by the generous hearts of the Masunga community. These included a brand-new television, two microwaves, a washing machine, an air fryer, a blender, and a substantial P10,000.00 in cash.

The warmth, pride, and unwavering support were palpable, felt deeply by the Miss Botswana Organization, and undoubtedly, even more so by Ruth herself. This was, without a doubt, a royal welcome home.

After the whirlwind of her phenomenal homecoming, Miss Botswana 2025, Ruth Thomas, took a quiet moment to reconnect with the foundations that ground her most: family and home.

She spent invaluable time with her loved ones, finding solace and reflection at the family farm. This cherished place, filled with childhood memories, laughter, and the humble beginnings that shaped the queen people see today, served as a gentle reminder that no matter how high one rises, there’s an enduring beauty in returning to where it all began.

In a charming highlight of her visit, Ruth even embarked on a lesson with her parents on the proper technique for milking a goat. And, spoiler alert: it seems she’ll need a few more classes to master that particular skill. This glimpse into her personal life further endeared her to the public, showcasing her humility and connection to her roots.

Masunga Village truly “showed up and showed out” for their very own queen, Miss Botswana 2025, Ruth Thomas, marking a historic chapter for both the village and the nation.

June 20 2025

Mafitlhakgosi ahead of the pack in cultural showcase

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Culture finds heartbeat in Mafitlhakgosi

There is an old neighborhood in Gaborone, Old Naledi, affectionately known as Zola Mdeni, and in its heart, there’s a vibrant pulse that beats to the rhythm of ancient drums and modern melodies. It’s the Mafitlhakgosi traditional group, a name whispered with reverence and shouted with joy, a true titan in the arena of cultural preservation.

This isn’t just a dance troupe; it’s a living, breathing testament to Botswana’s rich heritage, a moving canvas painted with the hues of tradition and the vibrant strokes of contemporary flair. They are, without a shadow of a doubt, a force to be reckoned with, turning every performance into an electrifying spectacle and every stage into their personal kingdom.

It’s been said, and wisely so, by the venerable Sir Seretse Khama, that “A nation without a culture is a lost nation.” These words, as true today as they were then, resonate deeply within the soul of Mafitlhakgosi.

Like steadfast sentinels, they stand shoulder to shoulder with other cultural custodians, dedicating their very being to ensuring that Botswana’s cultural flame never flickers. Culture, after all, is the anchor that moors people to their past, a shared tapestry of values that weaves a sense of belonging, crucial threads in the very fabric of a nation’s well-being and burgeoning spirit.

One particular Wednesday evening, the mundane cloak of a typical weekday was cast aside. A short journey into the winding paths of Zola Mdeni unfurled into an afternoon steeped in cultural exhibition, brimming with pride, laughter, and the irresistible urge to dance.

From a distance, the air throbbed with the hypnotic sounds of African rhythms, a symphony met by a thunderous ovation of clapping hands, all moving in perfect, unison synchronicity. The drums, those venerable instruments of old, added a rich, earthy flavor, completing a showcase that was nothing short of magical.

Bystanders, caught in the spell, wore smiles of pure awe, their spirits lifted to cloud nine by the young boys and girls who had, with an almost uncanny intuition, perfected the delicate art of blending traditional dance with Lekompo, the biggest musical sensation of the moment.

These are no ordinary performers; they are culture enthusiasts, having thrown their hats into the ring, dedicating their lives to the twin passions of entertainment and preservation. With every graceful leap and powerful stomp, they showcase dance in a manner so unique, so inspiring, that it truly is a sight for sore eyes.

Lined up with military precision, their eyes alight with anticipation, the DJ worked his magic from a humble Bluetooth speaker. From it emanated the melodic, soul-stirring voice of Lekompo superstar, the incredible Shandesh. The song of the hour, “Sdutla” or “Slender,” has been making waves, a veritable tidal wave across all radio stations, dominating social media feeds, and even the youngest among us can chant its lyrics, catching you off guard when you least expect it.

Mafithlakgosi-Localthreds-1-scaled Mafitlhakgosi ahead of the pack in cultural showcase

The audacious marriage of these two seemingly disparate genres might, at first blush, seem like a riddle wrapped in an enigma to the uninitiated. Yet, for this intrepid troupe, it’s a profound declaration, a way of embracing two cultures that dance on the borders, a living, breathing definition of culture without borders.

The fluid motion of their feet, their bodies glistening, oiled with Vaseline, caught the golden rays of the setting sun. And though a temperamental street light flickered on and off like a mischievous sprite, it only added to the ethereal glow, bathing the scene in a warm, inviting hue.

Even with the street light playing its whimsical game, the environment remained bathed in gold, a perfect complement to the rich, brown leather outfits worn by the young dancers.

They were adorned in Dibaga, Makgabe, and Matlhaka, traditional ornaments crafted from indigenous products, each piece meticulously chosen to elevate their already captivating looks. On their heads, bands woven from small, vibrant beads formed the proud colors of Botswana, a crown of cultural identity.

As the DJ spun the familiar tune, the focused ones, those who lived and breathed the music, were already cheering, singing at the top of their lungs, forming a graceful formation that others eagerly followed.

They knew every lyric, every beat, and at the very front, a young woman, embodying the spirit of Shandesh herself, led the charge. She was the artist, and in that moment, she was afforded the utmost respect, her performance a heartfelt tribute.

After a vigorous session of rehearsals, the party, alas, was officially over. Mafitlhakgosi is not merely a dance group; it’s a nurturing ground for school-going children, and so, with books calling, they needed to wrap up their artistic endeavors.

This group, more than anything, keeps these young minds engaged, away from the allure of the streets, instilling in them an unwavering trust and belief in the arts. It teaches them, with every step and every beat, that their talents are not just for show but can be a true source of livelihood and a means of survival, a truth worth its weight in gold.

It is precisely these kinds of initiatives, these platforms that sprout from the grassroots, that are the lifeblood of talent development. By nurturing these tender shoots, countless social ills are nipped in the bud, and children grow to not only know but deeply appreciate that their unique talents are equally important, valuable, and deserve to shine.