16 Sep 2014

Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) chief executive officer has commended Bathoen Trust for having put up a sterling Mmakgodumo Heritage and Cultural carnival on September 13.


Brian Dithebe was particularly impressed by the choice of the theme; Ngwao ya me Mokgabo Wame,” which he said projected a people proud of their culture.


He said the success of any cultural event was dependent upon being first appreciated by the people of that particular culture.
 Pledging his support to help expand the event, which was in its second year, Mr Dithebe indicated that Botswana Tourism Organisation placed cultural tourism in the forefront.


He was especially motivated by Bangwaketse Kgosikgolo, Kgosi Malope II penchant for cultural events saying the latter’s vision to transform Mmakgodumo area into a tourist attraction centre needed to be supported by all.


The many historic places among them; Old buildings at the main kgotla, Bathoen statue, memorial water reservoir at Tomela council chambers, old colonial prison and many other places of historic significance can be used to lure tourist to Kanye.


Kgosi Malope Gasietsiwe was disheartened by some people who wanted Mmakgodumo area to be turned into residential area saying the move will defeat the idea to turn the place into a tourism venture.


“I appreciate that there is a dire shortage of plots in Kanye but plead with you to pledge your support so that our vision to turn Mmakgodumo into a tourist venture can be realised,” he said.


He told his subjects that plans are already underway to set up a tourism centre fully fledged with conference centres and perhaps have animals around the area to attract tourists to this place of breathtaking beauty.


Bathoen Trust Chairman, Tsietsi Kebualemang commended Botswana Tourism Organisation, Ministry of Youth Sports and Culture and individual members of the community for having swiftly embraced them.


That withstanding, Kebualemang expressed worry that the elderly across Gangwaketse were not forthcoming and was hopeful the situation will change for the better in future. Ends