02 Apr 2017

A total of 15 choirs showcased their talent during the choir festival competitions held under the theme: Tshwaragano in Tonota .

The competition, hosted by the Thapelo Olopeng Foundation, gave choirs an opportunity to display riches of the local culture through music.

Thokgamo choir at the end scooped position one with their song Konokono claiming P5 000 and a floating trophy.

Through their song Tshwaraganelo bodiragatsi, Botshabelo choir emerged second and won P3 000 and a trophy.

Badulasetilo ba Pino choir scooped third position winning P1 500 and a trophy with their song Mo Botswana re masika.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Kgosi Bokamoso Radipitse said such competitions helped Batswana preserve their culture at the same time encouraging unity.

Giving an overview of the competition, the Member of Parliament for Tonota, Thapelo Olopeng said competitions were meant to encourage youth and artists to take their talents seriously.

Olopeng said given the high unemployment rate, it was wise that their talents be used as means to create jobs.

“Last year I was invited by Unity Dow to choir competitions in Kgatleng, and that is where I got the idea to host these competitions in Tonota. This will be an annual event hosted in April,” he said.

Minister of Basic Education, Dow emphasised that the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development had always advocated for culture preservation and for Batswana to know their roots.

Giving a vote of thanks, councillor Chris Machokoto applauded MP Olopeng for playing a crucial role in developing Tonota, saying “leadership skills of a leader are seen in his interaction with his people.”

He described Olopeng as a transformational leader who had his vision on changing the lives of youth in Tonota and across Botswana. ENDS