01 Nov 2016

As people braced the scorching heat to witness the second instalment of the Hamptons Jazz Festival; it turned out to be a musical delight for both young and old as artistes impressed on stage.

Hosted at DumaFm grounds, the live jazz festival was meant to appreciate the record number of people that turned up for the show in February.

Besides the show starting pretty late, when it did get underway it was evident that it was going to be a night to remember.

The iconic Sipho Hotstix Mabuse, the sensational Zonke, the amazing Banjo Mosele, Thabang, Lizibo, Nono Siile, Amantle Brown, Dj Laninah Benz and the musical genius that is Ringo Madlingozi all gave a sterling representation of

their craft much to the appreciation and enjoyment of music lovers.

Debbie Smith, organizer of the jazz festival said in an interview at the show that the Hamptons Jazz Festival aims to be a representative of a historic moment in which Botswana is seen as the destination for jazz intellectuals.

“The event allows people to revel in cultural refinement whilst relaxing with a glass of wine or cold beverage and enjoying the music,” said Debbie.

Speaking on the objectives and aims of the festival, Debbie said they want to generate approximately 1000 direct temporary job opportunities for Batswana, create and nurture empowerment and business opportunities throughout Botswana.

“We want to promote a tourism initiative that will generate positive economic ripple effect for different economic sectors of Gaborone and also host a festival that will leave a legacy and have an impact on the lives of the community through direct and indirect benefits,” said Debbie.

She further said they aim to use the festival as a tool to promote social cohesion and nation building in Botswana (inter-generational, inter cultural and inter-racial) by bringing the young and old together for the common purpose of fun and musical entertainment.

She indicated that she was happy with the turnout of people and applauded artistes for bringing their A game.

“Plans are already underway to have a bigger and better show next year and we are also looking at ways to empower other Batswana as we move forward,” she said, further adding that she appreciates the support she has received since they started.ENDS