19 May 2016

The Japanese legendary Jazz saxophonist Sadao Watanabe, also known as Nabesada, famous for his bossa nova recordings, is set to perform today with his 5 piece band at the main mall piazza, courtesy of President Lieutenant General Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama.

The show promises to be a memorable occasion as it is a landmark of the Botswana Golden Jubilee year as well as marking the 50^th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between Botswana and Japan.

During a press conference held at the Mass Media Complex yesterday, Watanabe expressed happiness to have been  “greatly honoured” to be invited to perform in Botswana at the time when the country was celebrating its independence.

The concert is also scheduled to feature local talent in the mould of  Banjo Mosele & Veterans, Motshe wa Badimo Ensemble and Nnunu Ramogotsi.The deputy permanent secretary for Government Communications in the Office of the President, Dr Jeff Ramsay  said he was delighted of Wanatabe’s presence in Botswana.

“He is a legend. It was a pleasure for me to watch him perform at a Botswana cultural night show in Tokyo, with Banjo Mosele in 2010. It was a wonderful show which his Excellency the President attended. It was at that time that this invitation was extended,” he said.

The show is being sponsored by Debeers, Air Botswana and Standard Bank.Debeers head of corporate affairs, Pat Dambe commended Wanatabe for being in Botswana and celebrating  independence with Batswana.

During his stay in Botswana, Wanatabe, who is in his 63^rd year as a performing professional will also hold a music workshop, where he and his band will have an opportunity to interact with local musicians.

As a guest of the head of state, he will also pay a courtesy call on President Khama   tomorrow morning and visit the Okavango Delta for a 2 night safari experience. ENDS