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A woman home epic tale of Makgadikgadi

16 Jul 2024

Life is a journey full of twists and turns. But it can surprise you with its resilience and beauty, says Ms Florence Tsenang of Nata as she tidies up the rooms of her humble Nata home, now a haven weary travellers seek respite from amidst the hectic activities of the Makgadikgadi Epic.

What started as a simple solution to the scarcity of accommodation has blossomed into a thriving enterprise for Ms Tsenang who hosts guests for the annual three-day Makgadikgadi Epic, offering a slice of home in the middle of the dusty plains.

“Opportunity is a strange beast,” said Ms Tsenang referring to the way Makgadikgadi Epic fell on her lap when she least expected it.

Her home, once a quiet retreat point, has become a melting pot of cultures and stories, all bound by the shared love of Botswana’s natural wonders.

With her enterprise, Ms has taken surely has taken President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi’s call for mindset change to heart, thinking outside the box and carving her own path to financial security, proving that even the most humble of homes can become a place of comfort.

Ms Tsenang’s sentiments resonate well with the determination of a woman undaunted by the challenges of life.

“As a mother, I know the importance of providing for my family,” she said with a smile.

She explained that she was nervous when she approached Botswnan Tourism Organisation with her idea, only to find that they were supportive.

“They told me that what I was doing was not only legal, but also necessary for the Makgadikgadi Epic,” she said.

Ms Tsenang said she was grateful for the support and the opportunity to contribute to the event.

She, however, has not been immune to the harsh realities of business challenges.

“I have big dreams for my plots. I wanted to turn one of my plots into a guest house, not just for the Makgadikgadi Epic, but for travellers year-round,” she added.

But when she approached CEDA for funding, they rejected her proposal.

Though it was a blow, she did not abandon her dream.

“I am still finding another way to make use of my land, to help my family and my community,” said Ms Tsenang.

She may have been denied funding, but not her dreams.

“I am grateful for the chance to help travellers and one day I know my guest house will become a reality , I won’t stop until it does,” she concluded. Ends 

Source : BOPA

Author : Thamani Shabani

Location : SOWA TOWN

Event : Interview

Date : 16 Jul 2024