03 Apr 2024

Cyclists taking part in the Trans-Kalahari Corridor cycling event will get a taste of local culture as they hosted to a cultural night when they arrive in Tsootsha, commonly known as Kalkfotein, on April 21. 

The event will feature traditional food, music and art, all showcasing the local customs and traditions. 

“The village of Kalkfotein is preparing for a cultural night as part of the Trans-Kalahari Corridor cycling event. 

The event will feature local traditions, food, music, and art, all of which are meant to showcase the unique culture of our village,” said councillor Patrick Gaebose,, who is one of the event organisers. 

He said by sharing their culture with the cyclists and other visitors, especially those from South Africa and Namibia, the people of Kalkfotein hoped to increase their visibility and create new opportunities for the village. 

Gaebose said the cultural night would help to strengthen the connection between the local community and the event as well as to raise awareness of the cultural heritage of the village. 

“It will foster understanding and respect for different cultures and promote tourism and economic development,” said Gaebose. 

In addition, he said the cultural night would provide a sense of pride and identity for the community of Kalkfotein and could be a fun and educational experience for all involved. 

He said the event was a partnership between the central government and the Charleshill District Council and the main objective was to explore local arts, talent and the tourism component. 

He explained that the cultural night would feature traditional groups from the village in Sesarwa, Herero, Sekgalagadi cultures as well as poetry. 

He explained that the cultural night would allow for the sharing and exchange of traditional knowledge such as songs, folk songs, dances, and customs. “They help to promote a sense of pride and belonging within the community and they also encourage younger generations to connect with and appreciate their cultural heritage,” he said. 

Also, he explained that cultural nights could provide an opportunity for different cultural groups to learn about and appreciate each other’s traditions. 

He therefore invited members of the village to attend the event in large numbers and experience and enjoy a diversity of cultures. 

The 1 900km Trans-Kalahari Corridor cycling event will start in Pretoria, South Africa on April 15 through Lobatse Lobatse to Walvis Bay in Namibia. 

Botswana will be represented by 10 cyclists drawn from various cycling clubs, amongst them, three female cyclists, Matshediso Ebudilwe, Wame Ntwayakgosi and Wyanie Odisang. ENDs