Lifestyle

Marotobalo event to revive, celebrate Batswana heritage

Ditiro Leero PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE
 
Ditiro Leero PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE

This will be a celebration of Batswana heritage and culture at the historic Marotobalo heritage site in Thamaga on Saturday. This year's event, themed 'Ngwao Sekao Sarona', aims to address issues such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and promote traditional conflict resolution methods, while also rejuvenating the status of the cultural festival to appeal to the younger generation.

'We are inviting all Bakgatla and Batswana, young and old, to experience and learn our untold rich history and culture,' said a representative of the Baga Mmanaana Cultural Society. 'This event is an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate our heritage, while also addressing important issues affecting our communities,' the representatives further said.

The event will feature a range of performances, including Ditiro Leero, Tshumu, Mmaratwa, Kgosi, Modubathankga, Kgokgonono, and Kgabo Sereto, among others. Visitors can also enjoy traditional food and crafts, with stalls available for P300 and P200, respectively. Entrance fees are P50 for adults and P30 for children.

'We are excited to have a range of activities, including horse riding and motorbike racing, and we encourage everyone to come and participate,' said the representative. 'We also have private security and police services available to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.'

The Marotobalo cultural event is an annual celebration, and the society is keen to grow the event to a corporate level. However, they face challenges, including a lack of young minds to help develop the event and limited resources to fully develop the cultural site.

'We are appealing for support and resources to help us grow the event and make it more appealing to the younger generation,' said the representative. 'We believe that our cultural heritage is important, and we want to ensure that it is preserved and passed on to future generations.'

The event promises to be a memorable celebration of Batswana culture and heritage, and the Baga Mmanaana Cultural Society invites all to come and experience it.