24 Sep 2026

At first, it may sound like an ordinary morning in Gaborone. Then the drums begin.

Colourful costumes appear, dancers take to the streets and low-bed trucks carrying performers turn the capital into a moving stage.

As Botswana celebrates 60 years of independence, the streets of Gaborone will become the stage for the country’s first-ever Independence Day carnival, breaking away from the traditional stadium celebrations.

The procession will culminate at the Main Mall, a place chosen for its memories and history as a gathering point where people once converged to celebrate.

Ministry of Sport and Arts principal arts officer, Kagiso Lepang said the intention was to revive that spirit while bringing colour and vibrancy to the anniversary.

About 25 groups, Lepang said, will participate, showcasing creativity through dance, music, costumes, fashion, sport, theatre, film and other cultural expressions.

The celebrations will be held under the theme: Building Resilience and Driving Prosperity.

Lepang said the theme reflected Botswana’s journey, noting that the country had faced many challenges over the years but had demonstrated resilience.

She said after 60 years of independence, the focus should now shift towards growth and initiatives that enable Batswana to prosper in different spheres of life.

The festivities will begin at 6am, with groups gathering at three locations before making their way to the Main Mall.

The groups have been named after three Dikgosi in honour of their legacy. Sechele I group will gather at Gwest Diphetogo grounds, Khama III at Maruapula SSG grounds, while Bathoen I will assemble at Old Naledi Park.

Each route is expected to take about two hours, with short performances along the way. Low-bed trucks will be used during the procession, while members of the public will be encouraged to join along the designated routes.

She advised participants to wear national colours or traditional attire. At the Main Mall, celebrations are expected to continue until midday, featuring girl guides, scouts, cheerleaders and song and dance groups.

The roads around the Main Mall will be closed to vehicles, although businesses will remain operational. A craft market and food court will also provide opportunities for local traders and entrepreneurs.

Lepang said the festivities would not only showcase Botswana’s rich cultural diversity, but also create economic opportunities for artists, caterers and other creative entrepreneurs while promoting national pride, unity and a lasting legacy.

The celebration will resume at 6pm and run until 6am with a music festival featuring both contemporary and traditional music.

Looking beyond the 60^th anniversary, Lepang said the intention was to make the carnival an annual event that could help attract tourists to Gaborone, recently launched as an attraction destination. ENDS