Bana Ba Metsi Church Choir drops debut album
Lucy Kgweetsi | Monday October 13, 2025 06:00
In an interview with Arts&Culture, Nkhukhu-Orlando said the inspiration to record the album came from a blessing the choir did not anticipate. “The idea was born from a remarkable gift, a recording voucher donated by President Duma Boko, even before he assumed office. We took it as a sign of God’s favour and stepped out in faith, trusting in His mercy and provision.” She revealed.
She said what began as a simple gesture of generosity became a moment of spiritual purpose for the G-West branch choir. “It became a call to share our message of hope, unity, and praise through music,” she added.
The title Motse, which translates to home or village, was deliberately chosen to symbolise the believers' journey of endurance. “We chose Motse because it reflects our faith journey toward the promised Kingdom of God. It reminds us that though the path is not easy, the promise of the eternal crown gives us strength,” Dr Nkhukhu-Orlando explained.
The album, deeply rooted in clap and tap gospel, carries themes of surrender, devotion, and hope. “Each song expresses a longing to draw nearer to God and trust his promises. It invites people to rise above life’s challenges and find peace in serving Him,” She added.
Bana Ba Metsi, formed in the late 1980s when the church branch was established, has long been a cornerstone of worship at St John Apostolic Faith Mission Church of Botswana.
Over the years, the choir has remained a vital part of the congregation’s ministry and healing mission. “This album is a celebration of our faith and long-standing service,” Dr Orlando said.
However, the journey to Motse was far from smooth. “We faced challenges of limited time, funds, and cross-border travel. But one of the most emotional moments came when our bus broke down on the way to South Africa. We had to walk the final stretch to the church, tired but grateful. It symbolised our perseverance and unity. We cried tears of joy because we made it together.” She recalled.
Among the standout tracks, 'Motse o re o hloheletsweng' holds special meaning for the choir. “It captures the spirit of who we are. It speaks of faith, temptation, and hope, especially for the youth who must rise above worldly distractions to hold on to God’s promises,” she said.
Dr Orlando also reflected on President Boko’s support and its lasting impact. “His gesture reminds us that leadership is about service and uplifting others. Now that he is President, it gives the project even deeper meaning and inspires us to dream bigger.” Added Dr Nkhukhu-Orlando.
Since its release, Motse has been warmly received by the church and the wider community. “The response has been overwhelming. It has brought joy and excitement, not just to the congregation but to everyone who hears it,” she said. She added that they hope it encourages repentance and strengthens the bond between faith and music.
The choir plans to officially launch the album in Gaborone in November, accompanied by live performances aimed at raising funds for their church building and celebrating unity through song. Looking to the future, Dr Orlando said Bana ba Metsi will continue to grow musically while remaining grounded in faith.
She affirmed that this is just the beginning; they want to keep improving, not to compete, but to serve God better through our music.
The album is available on CD for P100 and on a flash drive (audio and video) for P150 in Gaborone, Francistown, Maun, Selibe Phikwe, Gantsi, Mahalapye, and other towns. In closing, she said that they’ve learned that victory follows commitment and when faith leads the way, nothing is impossible.