19 Nov 2015

Polka dance is popular in the Kgalagadi District where it originates. It is a kind of dance that takes two to tango as men and women dance holding each other like two love birds dancing to a love song.

Since the music came out of its cocoon a few years back, various groups have emerged across the country, even far up north, away from where the music has its roots. 

This then calls for an extra effort for a group to distinguish itself from the rest, and avoid being classified as ‘just another polka group.’

Such is the mainstay of Welkom Polka group from Gabane which is currently a common feature in various activities in and around the village.

One of the founders of the group, Kabelo Mmualefe revealed that they were inspired by the President’s competitions to form the group.

“Our group was founded in 2012 after we were empowered by the annual President’s Day competitions. 

We formed this group to keep ourselves busy as the youth, and also earn a living through our craft,” he said.

He further revealed that he was the first one in the group to go to Kgalagadi where polka originates to borrow a leaf from the “owners,” but said it was a mammoth task when he had to mobilise the group because most of them knew nothing about the dance.

He further disclosed that during the early days of their group some called it quits along the way while the remaining 16 members soldiered on up to date.

Mmualefe also appreciated the annual President’s Day competition, saying it came as a blessing to them as it aided them in getting the much needed exposure.

“Since our group started in 2012 we have always ensured we take part in the competitions although we have never emerged as the overall winners, but our position and performance keeps improving because we learn a lot every year. 

The competitions also helped us get bookings to perform at various events like weddings and kgotla gatherings,” he said.

The polka group has toured various corners of the country such as Tonota, Gabane, Serowe and the annual Dithubaruba cultural festival in Molepolole showcasing their God given talent.

 They are also regulars at various Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture activities.

“We plan to grow our group and earn a living through polka, and we also train kids like we recently did at Sebeso Primary School,” said Mmualefe.

Although the group is on a promising track, challenges are an everyday occurrence. Such range from clients reluctant to pay the booking fee to lack of understanding the dance as it is currently still more popular in Kgalagadi.

Mmualefe said to create awareness, they use banners, business cards and attend kgotla gathering. 

He said various social media platforms have also come in handy in their effort to try and reach out to many Batswana.

He further thanked the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture for its continuous support as it has assisted them with transport and other costs when they have to perform around the country. Ends