When faith meets the soul of Jazz
Lesang Maswabi | Friday October 2, 2026 10:40
She will also be bringing together two musical worlds that have been central to her own artistic journey: Gospel and Jazz.
The inaugural Punah Gabasiane Presents Gospel Meets Jazz Concert, starting at 6pm, is inspired by the artist’s remarkable musical journey, which began in 1999 with her debut gospel album, Introducing Punah.
The album, featuring songs such as Jehovah ke Modisa Wame, Kumbaya My Lord and God Make Me a Worshipper, was well received and earned her the Best Female Gospel Album award at the inaugural BOMU Awards in 2001.
Her musical journey subsequently evolved into Jazz in 2005, resulting in five Afro Jazz albums, three singles and collaborations with both emerging and established artists. Now, 27 years into her career, Punah is stepping forward to establish what she hopes will become her signature annual concert.
For Punah, Gospel Meets Jazz is about celebrating “the harmony between faith and artistry”, bringing together the uplifting spirit of Gospel and the soulful creativity of Botswana Jazz. Both genres, she believes, share messages of hope, love and resilience, while their sounds and instrumentation can meet naturally on the same stage.
The concert features a deliberately diverse line-up of legendary musicians, seasoned performers, emerging artists and instrumentalists. Joining Punah will be South African gospel legend William Mthethwa, alongside Dr Phempheretlhe B. Pheto, Gabo Thotobolo, Sebaga, Shanti-Lo, Nnunu Ramogotsi, Nono Sile, B. Bolokwe and Kearoma Rantao.
Mthethwa’s appearance is particularly significant for Punah, who grew up listening to his music and regards him as one of her inspirations. His participation represents a deliberate Botswana–South Africa musical collaboration.
Audiences can expect performances that move between soulful Gospel praise and vibrant Afro Jazz, with the promise of special musical treats and surprises. A selection of DJs will also be announced ahead of the event.
Beyond entertainment, the concert carries a social and cultural purpose. Punah has throughout her career supported causes including gender-based violence awareness, girl-child protection and the promotion of Botswana’s cultural identity. Part of the concert proceeds will be donated to an organisation dedicated to the welfare of the girl child.
She also sees the platform as an opportunity to contribute to Botswana’s creative industry, mentor other artists and share skills with vocalists and instrumentalists.
With October bringing the summer season, the organisers chose the open-air Molapo Piazza for its spacious setting and ample parking. Patrons can expect quality sound, lighting and entertainment, with safety also prioritised. Tickets are available for P150 single, P250 double and P500 VIP, with VIP patrons receiving dedicated parking, a VIP seating area and cocktail snacks. Ultimately, Punah hopes to grow Gospel Meets Jazz at home before considering a wider regional platform.