28 Jul 2025

The much-anticipated return of Kgalagadi North District Show was marked in style this past weekend as revellers turned up in numbers to witness the crowning of Miss Kgalagadi North District Show, held in a colourful and culture-rich event at Lokgwabe.

The show returned after a long hiatus brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and its success signaled a promising future for the revival of the district show. Officiating at the event, district crop production officer, Collen Mbereki highlighted the district’s immense potential in crop and livestock farming.

He said agriculture remained a key livelihood for the people of the district and therefore if fully nurtured, would significantly contribute to Botswana’s economic development. 

“Our district is rich in agricultural resources,” he said. Events such as these accord us the platform to showcase our strengths and the unique cultural identity of Kgalagadi,” he added.

He further emphasised the role of pageants in preserving and promoting Botswana’s culture, especially among the youth. “Beauty pageants are not just about only about appearances, they are important platforms for cultural education, pride, and continuity.” 

He noted that contestants represented villages including settlements such as Maaka, Ukwi, Zutswa, and Inalegolo, ensuring inclusive representation across the district, and further praised participants for their courage and commitment. 

Eight contestants from various villages across the district took to the stage in a vibrant beauty pageant that not only celebrated beauty and elegance, but also served as a platform to display cultural identity, agricultural pride, and resilience of the region.

The pageant was divided into three segments that entailed formal wear, traditional attire, and evening gowns. 

Each round was crafted to reflect both modern elegance and traditional richness, celebrating the evolving identity of Batswana women.

During the traditional segment, contestants performed cultural dances, demonstrated food preservation techniques, and played traditional games such as mohele and diketo. 

Some displayed intricate beadwork that forms part of the iconic Tswana attire, paying tribute to the craftsmanship and artistry of Batswana culture.

The pageant featured displays of traditional farming tools and techniques, offering a unique opportunity to connect past and present agricultural practices.

Highlight of the evening came with the crowning of 29-year-old Maipelo Dinake from Tshane, who walked away with the title of Miss Kgalagadi North 2025 and P2, 500 monetary prize. Dinake was seconded by Ruth Zweezwee (35) of Ukwi who got P2, 000 and Motshidisi Sejamakaka (20) of Inalegolo as Second Princess P1, 500. Other contestants received a consolation prizes of P1 000.

The success of the event reignited the community’s spirit and cultural pride across Kgalagadi North, setting the tone for the full revival of the district show and affirming its role as a beacon for development, identity, and unity. ENDS