11 Jun 2025

Mmalotlhaka Kholoma, aged 77, possesses rare talent that sets her apart from the rest as one creative beadwork virtuoso of note.

Her humble abode in Gathwane, Southern part of Botswana has a welcoming atmosphere, with work of art displayed in fine patterns, vibrant colours and textures, spread out on an old small wooden table that is carefully placed under a tree shade.

“Mine is a story of passion for handicrafts. I began at a young age by knitting small and cute baby jerseys, crocheting beanies, bed spreads, pillowcases and cushions then moved on to make makgabe (waist beads),” says Kholoma after exchanging pleasantries.

It was the then Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development that catapulted her trade to greater heights after Goodhope District Council social workers identified her rare, natural talent and enrolled her for bead work training where she learnt new patterns and how to display her work to attract customers. They also took her to different exhibitions nationwide.

“As a single parent, I was able to earn a living with these beads. I took care of my six children,” said Kholoma in a soft voice, her movements slow and deliberate.

Despite her passion for making creative personal adornments, the act of beading to her is some form of relaxation and meditation that gets her lost in her own world, creating whatever her imagination can conjure. Her clients greased her palm for the good work she did, especially makgabe which sold out fast.

Academically, Kholoma went up to Standard three after which she worked as a farm worker. She used and continues to use her hands to feed her family. Over the years she has accumulated numerous accolades for her bead work such as winning the Presidential Constituency Competitions beginning 2013, and won every competition she entered. She now boasts seven certificates she won over the years. With the proceeds, she was able to connect water and electricity at her homestead as well as build a house she is yet to complete.

Among those who took notice of her work was Miss Botswana 2022, now Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, Lesego Chombo who bought her beads to make part of her wardrobe when she competed at the Miss World.

“Lesego bought some items for the competition from me and I gave her some as a gift, to support and encourage her to bring the crown home. They included a bracelet, bag and a belt. I was honoured that after her victory, she invited me for lunch. It was a beautiful experience,” said Kholoma with a broad smile.

However, she said old age was gradually catching up with her and she would like to impart her knowledge to those who are interested in bead work. This would be her legacy to the younger generation, and is open to having protégés before she becomes too old to share her knowledge.

Kholoma’s work has its own challenges, among them penetrating the market especially that she is old and not techno savvy. She desires to have a space for her products in shopping malls, especially Gaborone. Kholoma credits social workers for unearthing talent and giving them exposure during exhibitions however, identifying a market for their goods has proved difficult. With decades of history hidden in her memory, every wrinkle in her face tells a story of her survival and struggle but she appreciates government for supporting her. ENDS