Lifestyle

Cultural Festival Brings Basotho, Batswana Together

Western performing during the Basotho Batswana cultural fest.PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
 
Western performing during the Basotho Batswana cultural fest.PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG

The event gave Batswana and Basotho an insight of how these two countries pride themselves in their culture.

It was meant to build good relations between the two nations and promote cultural exchanges from way of life, dance, and attire to staple food.

One of the organisers of the event, Nani Ntwana said in an interview that it was a great pleasure to host an event of such calibre, and also being the first of its kind.

“Given the feedback we got from Batswana in regards to this event,” Ntwana said, “we have been motivated and pushed to give out more of this and not only allowing this event to being a once off thing but rather an annual thing”.

Ntwana said to pull such an event they go through challenges like sponsorship.

“We had sent out request for sponsorship a week prior to the event and our proposals were turned down due to the short notice of the request,” she said.

“But, I would like to acknowledge The Big 5 Lodge for the allowance of using their place and also providing our visitors with accommodation.”

Different cultural groups from both Botswana and Lesotho entertained the attendees at the event while various cultural groups from Botswana like a cultural Kalanga outfit, dancing Hosana called Tlilenje Tje Ngwao and Bebi Le Tsisetso (Lesotho).

Cultural lovers had a night to remember as they expressed their joy and appreciation for the performances.

One of the leaders of a traditional group from Lesotho, Masenowe Mahola said it was a great opportunity to be in Botswana, more so that it was their first time in the country.

“Such events build a good relation between countries and I want to believe that after this one, the relationship between Botswana and Lesotho will definitely grow into the best it has ever been,” she proudly said.  Mahola suggested that even besides Botswana and Lesotho, other countries should host such events so that their cultures are known and recognised internationally.