Bangwato induct Masitaphefo and Maratakgosi regiments

Gasebalwe Seretse
Correspondent | Wednesday July 25, 2012 00:00

 

'You went into the bush as boys and girls but you have returned as young men and women. I am happy to say that you were an enthusiastic lot and were willing to learn from your elders,' Sekgoma said.

Sekgoma further urged parents to support their children financially when they attend the mophato, adding that the Ngwato Kgotla can not afford to sponsor everything without the support of the morafe. He urged those who say negative things about mephato to desist from doing so, pointing out that all the graduates came back from the bush in perfect health which he said was proof that everything was done in an orderly fashion.

Kgosi Sekgoma Khama, who named the mephato, lauded the new mephato for the talent they had, even in their small numbers.  The Masitaphefo, which is comprised of men and women born between 1981 and 1985 are led by Setohile Kgamane and Oratile Khama. The Maratakgosi, made up of men and women born between 1986 and 1990, are led by Phethu Mphoeng and Thatayotlhe Kgamane. Kgosithebe Badirwang will lead the Maratakgosi for the time being while Mphoeng is busy attending to other commitments. The graduation ceremony, which attracted people from all over Gammangwato, was spiced with traditional dance, song and poetry. Bangwato revived the culture of mephato when they inducted Maremakachaka and Malomakgomo last year after a decades-long lull.