09 Jul 2026

The quiet and remote tourism island of Mmamokhutshwane, situated right in the heart of the Okavango delta, sprung to life recently when the fourth edition of the Tapyowa NG32 experience was celebrated with a series of cultural activities.

Organised by Okavango Kopano Mokoro Community Trust (OKMCT), the Tapyowa NG32 experience is an annual cultural tourism spectacle aimed at celebrating the diverse multi-ethnic groups found in NG32 concession.  

Local groups from various areas affiliating to the trust came together to showcase authentic performances featuring heritage dances, ancestral songs, live folk music, traditional food tasting as well as vivid storytelling; offering visitors an immersive experience of their rich and diverse heritage.

The annual showcase offers an opportunity for patrons to witness and appreciate the distinctive local culture that holds a significant, yet under-utilised potential for cultural and sport tourism. 

Those who graced the event left the place with lasting memories far beyond the stage, as they experienced a rich and colourful way of life which is unlike any other.  In an interview, one of the tourism operators, Cobus Calitz hailed the event, saying it indeed offered an insight into the rich tapestry of traditions that defined the lifestyle of the communities living in the delta.

He appreciated that the event showcased the cultural vibrancy and national pride of Botswana. “It is amazing to be part of a special event like this. Witnessing the local community proudly showcasing the beauty of their tradition is incredibly inspiring and I wish other communities can learn from OKMCT,” he added.

Calitz also highlighted that the event fostered sustainable tourism by driving local economic growth, creating demand for authentic experiences and motivating the preservation of heritage.

North West district commissioner, Thabang Waloka also commended the initiative noting that it had the potential to diversify the tourism product and support local communities. Cultural and sports tourism, he said were gradually becoming major travel drivers as travelers increasingly sought authentic experiences, heritage storytelling and community lifestyle.

He hailed the trust for promoting and developing cultural and sports tourism as they did not only provide leisure but also drove economic growth and mutual understanding.

“This is testament that the trust is benefiting its members through the Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programme which focuses on providing incentives for communities to take responsibility for managing natural resources sustainably,” he added.

The proceeds generated through the CBNRM projects have already made an impact in all settlements affiliated to the trust to ensure social equity.

OKMCT manager, Seikaneng Moepedi revealed that the event aimed to expose the beauty of the delta as well as to promote cultural and sport tourism which remained untapped in the region.

In addition, he stated that through the event, they were promoting domestic tourism, preserving indigenous cultural heritage and creating sustainable income for local activities.

“This is the fourth edition of the event and we have realised that a lot of locals are not aware of our prestigious resource; the delta, which has attracted a lot of attention globally. We receive a lot of international visitors coming here to experience the beauty of the delta through mekoro excursions, and through Tapyowa, we want to make the delta more accessible,” he emphasised.

Meanwhile, the trust is made up of six settlements namely; Boro, Daunara, Ditshiping, Xharaxao, Xaxaba and Xuxao. Initially the event was held at Xaxaba but due to the rising of flood water in the delta, it was moved to Mmamokhutshwane island, a cultural and ecological hub located in NG32. ENDS