Charma Gal’s 100% local lineup looks pretty
STRIKING A CHORD: Charma Gal’s all-local lineup resonates
Renowned singer, songwriter, and entertainer Charma Gal is on a mission to revitalize Botswana’s music scene, and she’s leading by example. Her annual event, the Kgosi ya In Mosadi Concert, is not just about entertainment; it’s a strategic move to stimulate the local economy and give homegrown talent the spotlight they deserve.
At one point, it even featured Congolese music icon Koffi Olomide as a headliner. However, that particular iteration didn’t quite hit the mark in terms of profit. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Charma Gal’s determination remained unshaken, and she’s back with a clear vision.
For its 2025 edition, slated for August 30th at the Royal Aria Stadium, Charma Gal has made a deliberate and impactful decision: a 100% local lineup. This isn’t Charma Gal’s first rodeo. The festival has seen its share of ups and downs.
The 2025 lineup is a veritable who’s who of Botswana’s musical landscape, and the excitement among fans is palpable. Confirmed to turn it up on stage are seasoned artists like Alfredo Mos, Lopzah, Dibinoza, Matsieng, MmaOshima, and Swaggalady. Joining them are Motlha, who has recently found his way back to the music industry, along with Ubuntu Band, Lioness Ratang of Nako Tsele fame, Mingo Touch, and Double Up.
Adding to the star power are the newest sensations on the block, Chokoma and Juu Matere, who recently snatched the biggest awards at the Yarona FM Music Awards (YAMAs). The night promises to be unforgettable with performances by Kabelo Tiro, DJ Lebgee, Culture Spears, Nono Siile, Vee Mampeezy, and DJ Ngwazi, all ready to show attendees what they are made of.
This all-local billing is a significant departure from the norm, where South African artists often headline local shows, a practice that has irked some promoters despite them being the ones making the bookings.
Charma Gal’s bold move to champion local talent is a breath of fresh air for the music industry. It signals a brighter future, one where Botswana’s artists can truly flourish on their home turf. However, for this vision to fully come to fruition, it needs widespread support.
The call goes out to all music industry players, including the custodian Ministry of Sports and Arts, the National Arts Council Botswana (NACB), the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC), and the private sector. They must all join hands in resuscitating and empowering the music sector.
Some organizations are already leveling the playing field. The NACB and the Companies and Intellectual Property Authority (CIPA) are actively supporting various creative sectors. Through the Technical Levy Fund, CIPA is at the forefront of this mission, diligently releasing funds and seeing projects taking shape. This collective effort is crucial to ensure that Botswana’s musical heritage not only survives but thrives, allowing local artists to take their rightful place on the global stage.
