30 Mar 2016

The Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Slumber Tsogwane has applauded the Wayeyi for embracing and developing their culture. 

“People’s culture is their soul, it cuts deep into their very existence and defines who they are,” he told the Wayeyi during their cultural festival in Gumare . 

Tsogwane said even though he was aware that they had applied for recognition as a tribe, he was glad the government was about to resolve the matter to its logical conclusion. 

He applauded Wayeyi people on celebrating their roots, adding that the occasion displays part and parcel of Botswana’s national heritage. 

“In the spirit of national unity, we should all join you in celebration as one people,” observed Tsogwane. 

On other issues, he said the government supports cultural diversity as a cornerstone of democracy and equality. 

Tsogwane said Wayeyi Festival has been given financial support since 2004. 

In this case, he said the initiative has championed the cultural movement as a poverty eradication strategy especially amongst the youth. 

“I wish you to continue in this spirit and ensure that your culture represents Botswana in some international events,” he added. 

He also appreciated the Wayeyi culture for their unique traditional dress code, their delicious dishes and the dance which has won them three awards during the President’s day celebrations. 

The minister said he was aware that they make beautiful beadworks, carpentry and also make beautiful basketry, which was a trade that many tribes have learnt from them. 

He advised them to protect and guard jealousy against their culture so that they sustain it to pass it on to the younger generations. 

Meanwhile, Kgosi Jacoba Seidisa thanked the minister for gracing the event, saying it showed love and appreciation of their culture. 

He said he was always hopeful to see the government supporting cultural activities in the country, stating that it ensures culture preservation. 

The Wayeyi culture is celebrated yearly during the Easter holidays. During the event they learn about their culture through entertainment, selling of the Wayeyi books and other products. 

 They also host competitions of different Wayeyi traditional groups to honour their culture. They also invited the Wayeyi from Namibia. ENDS