17 Jul 2014

Folklore music is one of the artistry that has always been viewed as being at the apex of Botswana’s cultural identity.

Generally played during social events such as weddings as a way of entertainment and telling stories, folklore music has contributed significantly to the preservation of culture.

It can also be used as a means of survival if well executed as shown by 30-year-old John Mosiiwa from Maitengwe who has resorted to the music to make ends meet.

He narrated in an interview that he developed passion for folklore music at an early age because he grew up under the care of his grandfather, who was well known for his dexterity with the guitar. “I watched him with keen interest as he played the instrument and that is why it was easy for me to follow suit,” he said.

To emulate what his grandfather did, Mosiiwa made his own guitar using a five litre container, a piece of wood and a few strings. And during his spare time, he would play it.

He says during his days at the cattle post, whenever they played their home made guitars with some of his peers, he always came out top.

Mosiiwa or Rasta, as he is affectionately called by most of the villagers, does not have any formal job and depends on his guitar to earn a living.

He says he is usually hired to perform at weddings, schools’ prize giving ceremonies and sometimes he entertains people at drinking spots.

“My skills with the guitar help me sustain my life and that of my family, and the returns I receive from my performances helps me put food on the table. It also helps me shape my future,” he said.

The shy father of five says he never sits down to arrange his songs, but justs picks his guitar and plays right away. “Although my songs are composed on the spot, my audience simply gets along with them,” he said.

Mosiiwa says people should embrace folklore music as it can be used to educate the public on various issues.

The guitarist is well known in the village and locating his yard is not a hassle as those who know him will tell about his electrifying and absorbing performances.

Despite being a well-known guitarist, he says lack of adequate resources continue to be a challenge since he cannot fully market himself.

The optimistic guitarist says he is working on his first album, which he will release in time and also said his intention is to try his luck once more in the upcoming Constituency Arts competition. ENDS