13 Mar 2014

In an effort to achieve one of Vision 2016’s pillar of a Proud and United nation, the mining town of Jwaneng will hold a cultural day in May.

Speaking in an interview with BOPA, Deputy District Commissioner, Richard Boitshwarelo explained the cultural day would create an ideal platform for e

ducating young people about botswana culture which is slowly disappearing. He added the intention was to build two traditional huts at Raphalane customary court, adding currently one of them was at advanced stage. He said the huts would be used as a museum for traditional artifacts.

He noted the cultural day would be characterised by traditional activities including traditional songs and dances from different tribes. There will also be traditional cuisine. The aim, he added, was to educate people on the traditions of Batswana and at the same time encourage the celebration of different cultures within the country.

When speaking on challenges faced, Boitshwarelo said because of the diversity of the population in the town, mobilising people to be part of the day was a challenge. He said the other challenge was financial constraints and called on the business community and members of the public to contribute towards the success of the day.

He explained the public needed to think of other ways apart from mining to bring social cohesion in the town. Furthermore, he said, culture was one of the ideas that could attract tourists “Cultural tourism will play a major role in attracting people into the town when the diamonds are finished” he said.

Boitshwarelo further commended the tribal administration staff for their spirit of volunteerism in the preparations for the cultural day. He also pleaded with the different traditional groups and the general public to take part to ensure the success of the event. Ends