24 Aug 2025

The National Arts Festival held at the Tati Siding community hall on Saturday failed to live up to its hype due to poor sound quality.

In particular, artistes who competed in the Setinkane, Segaba and Guitar categories complained that the poor sound system used inside the hall on Saturday may have compromised their overall performances.

Some music enthusiasts also echoed the same sentiments, saying that the poor sound spoiled what promised to be a day of pomp and fanfare for lovers of folk music.

However, artists especially those playing guitars, seemed charged to give their all and endear themselves to the fans as they strummed their musical instruments, much to the crowd’s appreciation.

Tawana Nunganyi had a time of his life on stage, with fans dancing along to his song. Whistles and shouts for his dexterity on the guitar filled the air as the crowd clearly warmed up to the great guitar player and entertainer that he clearly is.

His performance set the tone for many that came after him.

Tuelo Keatefale’s performance on stage and his exquisite guitar strumming took the guitar competition category to the next level, adding excitement to the already charged fans who sang along and stomped their feet on the ground to yet another top-notch performance.

Unlike Nunganyi, Keatefale enhanced his good performance by singing, much to the delight of fans who sang along with him.

Visually impaired Phepafatso Keipusitse showcased his magical skills on stage, demonstrating that one’s physical condition does not define one’s overall capabilities and potential.

In his own words, he said, Ga ke a tla go gaisana le ope, ke tsile go supa talente yaaka gore Batswana le nthotloetse. His vocals were not a let-down either.

The Segaba category was more exciting, as two women, Opelo Ramoji who goes by the stage name Ba Mpha-Ba-Mpona, and Tanyala Luckson, charted their way into the traditionally male territory in style.

They demonstrated that given the chance, women can be a force to reckon with in the Segaba category.

Categories such as Mogolokwane, Traditional Poetry, Contemporary Poetry, Drama, Stand-Up Comedy, Clap and Tap, Traditional Song and Dance, Dikhwaere, Back Track, and Disk Jockey featured on the day.

The 2025 National Arts Festival competitions are held under the theme: Recognising our cultural diversity and celebrating the freedom of our expressions. ENDS