13 Jul 2016

As part of their preparation for this year’s independence celebration, Chanoga community will host a cultural festival which aims to promote culture preservation and kick start the independence celebrations.

The event is scheduled for July 30 and it will be held at the old clinic buildings along the river bank which are some of the heritage sites in Chanoga.

In an interview, Kgosi Oateng Setlhodi explained that the main objective of the event is to mark the starting of BOTS50 celebrations.

He said this year’s independence celebration is a big event which needs all to take part hence the cultural festival which would bring different ethnic groups to come and showcase their cultures.

He said as the community celebrates this year’s independence, they must understand that culture played an important role in placing Botswana where it is today hence the need to preserve it and  be proud of it. 

In addition, Kgosi Setlhodi revealed that culture promoted good governance, Botho, unity and team spirit among Batswana hence there is peace and tranquility that reign in the country.

He said the cultural festival is designed to celebrate, revive and embrace the Setswana culture thus bringing all interested groups and individuals to come and showcase their different cultural artifacts and activities.

He said on the big day, there will be a display of traditional food, poetry, songs, dance, dikgafela, choirs, traditional attire, performing arts and many more, thus bringing meaning to the event. 

Kgosi Setlhodi also noted that the event will give young generation an opportunity to learn about the importance of culture and appreciate where Botswana comes from as they celebrate this year’s independence.

He said the community at large has welcomed the event and currently making some donations towards the success of the event.

Kgosi appreciated support from Shumba Plant Company for their assistance to de-bush the place where the event will be held and the roads that lead to the event. 

For his part, the chairperson of the Chanoga Independence Celebration Committee, Kewame Mooketsi said the preparations are at an advanced stage as all the concerned stakeholders are doing all their best to ensure the event becomes successful.

“Almost everything on display during the big day would have our cultural significance and influence,” he said. Mooketsi also pointed out that the event would attract the attention of people outside the village therefore placing itself as one of the most celebrated cultural events in the area. ENDS