Kuru Festival should be restored to its former glory � PHK
Zolani Kraai | Tuesday September 1, 2015 16:12
Ponatshego Kedikilwe, who is the KDT patron, made this call when officially opening the Kuru Dance Festival at Dqae Qare San Lodge, near D’Kar settlement over the weekend.
The festival, which was co-sponsored by Barclays Bank to the tune of P400,000, finally took place following a two year long absence following internal feuds within the structures.
Kedikilwe said poor governance had lead to collapse of projects that would have made differences in the livelihoods of the communities. He said KDT must ensure that it is self-sustainable and does not rely on donors, in order for it to be restored to its original glory.
“You should strive to create income generating activities for the community, especially the youth. Your stance in this regard, will foster and uproot young talent as it will also promote culture stability, tolerance and social stability,” he said.
Kedikilwe also advised the Trust to be creative in coming up with fundraising strategies. He said the revival of Kuru dance festival comes at a time the nation is reflecting on Vision 2016, hence should be part of the aspirations into the pillar of ‘A Proud and United Nation’. He added that the San culture adds to the diversity of Botswana’s heritage and boosts the local tourism economy.
Kedikilwe said some musical groups imitate and eventually destroy the originality of some other tribes’ traditional and cultural songs.
The former Vice President also acknowledged the presence of tourists from various countries, saying their presence shows that they support local culture and want to see the Kuru Dance festival grow. “I also urge the Kuru Development Trust to fulfill its pledge to the community of improving their livelihoods and always consider giving them feedback on the decisions you make for the Trust,” he said.