Ground Breaker Choir festival to strike new chord
staff writer | Monday July 13, 2026 06:00
The festival will bring together four traditional church choirs namely, Bodiakhudu Choir of Mochudi, Tladimotwana Choir of Molepolole, Dikopane Choir of Molepolole and Bamphetlhe Choir of Thamaga for a day of spirited competition and worship. Beyond the powerful harmonies, audiences will be treated to the precision marching, vibrant choreography and unwavering faith that have become hallmarks of Botswana's traditional church choir culture. Organisers of the event say the festival is intended to be an annual platform for celebrating choral excellence while fostering unity among church choirs across the country.
The festival, organised by Dipidipidi Garden, aims to make a platform where church choirs can showcase their unique styles while strengthening fellowship among congregations from different parts of Botswana.
According to the organisers, the Ground Breaker Choir Festival is envisioned as more than just a competition. It is intended to become an annual gathering that celebrates the rich heritage of church choir ministry while promoting community development through music and tourism.
'This is the beginning of something special,' the organisers said. 'We want Ground Breaker to become one of Botswana's premier choir festivals, attracting choirs and supporters from across the country every year,' they added.
Apart from the musical performances, spectators can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with entertainment, food and networking opportunities for choir lovers. The competition will see participating choirs battle for the coveted Ground Breaker Champion 2026 trophy, which organisers hope will become one of the most sought-after honours on Botswana's church choir calendar.
Hosted at Dipidipidi Garden in Gakgatla (Masebosebo), the event is expected to attract supporters from neighbouring villages and beyond, offering a boost to local businesses and promoting the venue as an emerging destination for cultural and entertainment events.
Entrance fees have been kept affordable, with adults paying P15, children P5, while a P30 cooler box fee will apply. The organisers have encouraged members of the public, church congregations and music enthusiasts to come in numbers to witness history in the making as the inaugural champions of the Ground Breaker Choir Festival are crowned.
If successful, the festival is expected to become a permanent fixture on Botswana' s annual events calendar, with plans to grow the competition by attracting more choirs, sponsors and visitors in future editions.
The Ground Breaker Choir Festival begins on Saturday morning, at Dipidipidi Garden, Gakgatla, with gates opening early to accommodate the anticipated crowds. The organisers are urging supporters to arrive on time and bring their voices, energy and passion as they celebrate the birth of what they hope will become one of Botswana's signature gospel choir events.