A Go Raptjwe Nights to resuscitate local rap music
Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Monday September 1, 2025 06:00
In an interview with the show's founder, Thabo Rantao, also famed as Touch Motswak Tswak, he explained that A Go Repjwe brings together talented rappers, producers, DJs, and music lovers under one roof for a night of pure hip-hop energy. He said the event showcases artistry, lyricism, and performance while creating an authentic atmosphere for fans to connect with the culture.
'The inspiration came from the need to provide rappers with a consistent platform to perform, grow, and be appreciated for their craft. Botswana’s rap industry is vibrant but often overlooked, so we wanted to create a space that amplifies artists’ voices while offering the audience a true hip-hop experience. It is hosted every Wednesday at the Matrix Lounge Garden in Gaborone, Block 6. We have chosen a central and accessible venue that complements the urban, creative vibe of the show. Our target audience is broad, from hardcore hip-hop fans to casual music lovers. We aim to attract young people, creatives, and professionals who appreciate live performances, lyricism, and culture,' he said.
Furthermore, Rantao pointed out that the event will be open to any rapper who believes in their craft and could deliver an impactful performance. He encouraged upcoming artists, underground talent, and established rappers to participate. He added that their selection process ensured diversity and quality on stage.
He emphasised that the rap industry in Botswana has grown tremendously, saying artists are now experimenting with new sounds, visuals, and collaborations, adding that the audience was also responding positively. However, he said rappers still faced challenges such as limited platforms, lack of financial backing, and fewer opportunities for mainstream exposure.
'Despite this, the resilience of Botswana’s rap scene keeps it moving forward. For safety reasons, bottled beverages will not be allowed inside the venue. Instead, we provide drinks through our event vendors and pub to ensure safety, minimize accidents, and maintain a controlled environment. Security is one of our top priorities. We are working with a professional security team, supported by marshals and safety officers, to ensure the event is safe and enjoyable for everyone. Attendees can expect thorough entry checks, monitoring, and a well-coordinated system inside the venue,' he said.
Additionally, Rantao said organising the event came with challenges such as securing funding, logistics, ensuring artist availability, and balancing audience expectations. However, he said they seized the challenges as opportunities to grow stronger and create better experiences for future editions. He added that their vision is for A Go Raptjwe Nights to become an annual cultural highlight in Botswana’s music calendar. He added that their goal is to grow it into a brand that not only supports artists but also attracts wider audiences, sponsors, and even international collaborations.
Beyond entertainment, he said, A Go Raptjwe Nights is about building community. He explained that it is a movement aimed at empowering youth, inspiring creativity, and proving that Botswana’s rap industry has global potential. He ended by saying, by attending, fans were not just enjoying music but also investing in the future of local talent.