SOTS’ 20th anniversary promises immense fun
Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Monday February 17, 2025 11:39
In an interview with SOTS event producer, Sydney Nzala, also famed as DJ Boogie Sid, he pointed out that SOTS has served as a melting pot of cultural activities, information sharing and culture preservation. SOTS was started in 2005 by Bana ba Mmala. Nzala said they were excited and thrilled to have come thus far, celebrating their culture with the full support of Batswana. He added that this year’s edition will be held at the scenic, lush green and beautiful Boetelo Sunvalley Resort in Notwane. “It has not been a smooth ride though, given that events are costly to put together and some die along the way but we have persevered. With the 20th anniversary, we are now doing a full weekend of SOTS. Friday will be dedicated to Metswaiso Chillas. 'This is an evening of folk telling, singing, poetry and dance. The main event, which serves as a dish of mouth-watering cultural activities will be held on Saturday,” he said.
He added that they would have traditional Setswana games like mhele, diketo, skipping rope, chama etc. There would also be the battle of the North versus the South choirs that is always a thriller at the sundowner among traditional Choir fanatics. DJ Boogie Sid added that the evening event promises some fireworks featuring Matsieng, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Bongo Maffin, Culture Spears, Captain Dira, Dikakapa and many more. Furthermore, he stated that Mdala ka Tje and Benson Phuthego will be the event hosts. The Sunday edition, which is the newest addition to the SOTS’ calendar, features a strong line-up of Afrosoul melodies from Bhudaza, Shanti Lo, Mpho Sebina, Lister Boleseng and many others.
Speaking about the event’s growth over the years, DJ Boogie Sid pointed out that SOTS has seen steady growth over the years, especially among the youth audience. He said this is a highlight that the youth is getting more in touch with their roots and heritage. As for the legacy the event continuously leaving behind, he added that they appreciated the shifting dynamics of culture, adding that they were working hard to pass on the message to younger audiences. “This is evident in our programming as we have now included young artists like Thato Tladi, Lioness Ratang, Juu Matere and Mpho Sebina. Our cultural influences go beyond our borders. 'We share a lot of bonds with our neighbours hence the appearance of international acts like Bongo Maffin, Bhudaza and Yvonne Chaka Chaka. A broader part of our strategy is to support the creative SMMEs and showcase the talent we have. We will be having a crafts and curios market for our patrons to indulge and buy some crafts. 'SOTS 20th anniversary promises to be a fun-filled experience for all,” he ended. Tickets for the show are available at all webtickets outlets and selected Choppies stores. Cooler boxes are free all weekend.