28 Aug 2025

Organisers of the annual Dithubaruba cultural festival have cancelled this year’s Dithubaruba Heritage Walk which scheduled for this coming Saturday as a curtain raiser to the main festival on September 6.

The festival coordinator Power Kawina announced the decision in an interview on Wednesday. He explained that change follows consultations and a recognition of the urgent need to support a community led initiative under the Total Man banner that will host a solidarity walk in Molepolole to raise awareness about rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) and so called “passion killings” in the community.

“While the Heritage Walk has always been a cherished part of our cultural calendar, we believe that this moment calls for unity, compassion and collective action,” said Kawina. 

In addition, he said their presence in the solidarity walk will reflect the values that Dithubaruba holds dear such as community, empathy and cultural relevance.

He said the solidarity walk would take place on the same day and culminate at the Molepolole Sports Complex where various awareness activities would be held. 

As part of their participation, the organisers will host a branded stall at the event providing information about the festival’s community programmes and GBV related initiatives.

They will also engage participants, dignitaries and supporters in discussions about cultural values and healing. 

Mr Kawina extended an invitation to festival supporters and partners to join the march stressing that collective presence would help amplify the message of healing and hope. ENDS