06 Mar 2017

Vice President Mr Mokgweetsi Masisi visited Old Palapye site in Malaka during the Lecheng/Malaka heritage marathon held in Malaka village over the weekend.
The marathon organised by the Department of Museum and Monuments in partnership with Friends of the Museum, aimed at promoting and conserving the heritage sites at Malaka village.

Mr Masisi also got the opportunity to visit the old London Missionary Society Church, found at Old Palapye site.
The church  which was considered essential by Kgosi Khama III was built in 1892 when Old Palapye was the capital of the Bangwato under the leadership of Kgosi Khama III.

In an interview, Mr Masisi commended Friends of the Museum for organising such an event, saying it was a welcome development since it promotes the culture of the Batswapong, particularly their strong ancestral beliefs.

“The place also shows the rich culture of Batswapong,” he said
He said the beauty of Old Palapye is amazing hence Batswana should promote the heritage site to generate income for the local community.

The Vice President said old Palapye site shows a true reflection of the peace that has been reigning amongst Batswana, adding that the western people lived harmoniously with the locals at Old Palapye during the time as evidenced by the existing ruins of houses that were owned by the western people at the time.

For his part the area MP Mr Prince Maele said the heritage sites found in Malaka and the rest of Tswapong area are a blessing.
He said these heritage sites will not only promote tourism but will also help create employment and generate income for the local people.

“For this to be achievable, the most important thing is conservation,” adding that if these heritage sites are not conserved, they are likely to get ruined hence the idea of income generation will not be achieved.He said it is imperative to conserve the building, which is over 100 years old for the next coming generation.

Government, he said, is currently undertaking a project under the Economic Stimulus Programme to the tune of P5m, which will entail erecting a gate house to control movement and generate income for the local community.

Prior to the marathon, Friends of the Museum organised a workshop at Moremi village to inform the community of Tswapong about the importance of conservation. ENDS