15 Nov 2016

The University of Botswana (UB) lecturer, Professor Thapelo Otlogetswe, has encouraged Bangwaketse to showcase their culture as a way of sharing how they want to be identified.

He said during the official opening of a traditional hut at Kidz Academy English Medium School in Kanye on November 12, that their culture gave them an identity which differentiates them from the universe.

The traditional hut has been named after the late Mohumagadi, the wife of Kgosi Seepapitso Bathoen IV of Bangwaketse MmaLeema and the event was initiated to promote and revive the Bangwaketse culture.

The young people watched in awe as the elderly twisted and turned to the marvelous dance of Dipela tsa ga Kobokwe, Phathisi, Senyetse choir and traditional dance. Dikgafela and traditional kgotla set up was also showcased including traditional cuisine and attire.

Professor Otlogetswe reiterated the importance of culture in all spheres of development, and challenged every Motswana to realise the importance of his or her contribution to cultural development.

He was concerned at how Batswana seem to be too eager to abandon their cultural values in favour of foreign ones.

He said Bangwaketse were one of the principal tribes in Botswana who are rich in culture and norms hence the need to preserve that culture for the coming generation.

He emphasised the importance for Batswana to know their roots and to stay rooted in their culture as it was the remedy to social challenges that the country faced.

He said since Setswana culture was largely based on Botho, good behaviour and respect and said it was important for Batswana to embrace culture and use it as a pillar for living in peace and harmony with each other.

He urged all to revive culture and the spirit of volunteerism saying it was important for the youth to look up to their elders and learn cultural aspects that could help build their lives.

He said it was the responsibility of dikgosi and parents in particular to ensure that culture was preserved in order to ensure the nation was not swallowed by foreign cultures.BOPA