02 Oct 2022

 Molepolole streets and social media were abuzz with a Nandos advert Sengwe le sengwe se ko Mokwena marking the grand opening of the eatery in the village after so many years since it closed shop.

Known for its creative, but at times controversial and yet funny adverts, this time around Nandos decided to go for a somewhat mellow ‘sengwe le sengwe se ko Mokwena’ tagline, perhaps to warm up to the people of Molepolole and embrace almost everything associated with Bakwena.When residents received news of the grand opening of the eatery known for its juicy meals and signature refreshments, they flocked the Villagegate Mall, a newly built shopping centre situated at Magokotswane Ward along Gaborone-Molepolole road.

The second largest mall in Molepolole after Mafenyatlala, although not yet open to the public, will be home to numerous stores and will offer Bakwena an alternative shopping experience and choice given the vastness of the village.On September 27, it was a baptism of fire for the Nandos staff as the food outlet was teeming with clients who were eager to have a bite from the moment its doors opened to the public. 

Interestingly, some doubting Thomases were not there to buy anything, but just to see for themselves if indeed their favourite eatery had now opened in Molepolole.

One couple expressed excitement that they would no longer have to travel to Gaborone for their favourite meals. Others expressed hope that the eatery would not close shop soon given that Molepolole was not so lucky with food franchises that tended to fade away easily.

Nonetheless, the branch’s youthful floor manager, Mr Godiraone Gopane allayed fears saying the first shop closed because of business failure.

He assured the residents that this time around the business would not fail because they had improved their operations.

With a staff complement of 46, Mr Gopane said the new outlet offered consumers exceptional service with new features such as the drive-through, a delivery service and a sit-in capacity of 92. 

He said in the next few weeks, they would offer government departments a purchase order service. Currently, there are only three food franchise stores in Molepolole and Nandos is the latest addition. ENDS