Let us be wary of tribalism

It is a good development not unrelated to President Ian Khama's call when he assumed office in April 2008. The first to respond were Bakgatla through Kgosi Kgafela II who put initiation schools in Kgatleng on a new footing, although the idea ended up taking a wrong direction that led to criminal charges being preferred against him and some of his regiments.

Then followed Bangwato who also revived Bogwera a year or so ago. Balete joined the bandwagon at the beginning of this month, reviving their tradition of launching Bogwera in winter, although in a somewhat modified form because August signals the beginning of Autumn. Just last weekend, there was a ceremony at the Main Kgotla in Tlokweng, the centrepiece of which was the unveiling of Thakadu, the animal that Batlokwa venerate, as the emblem and logo of the tribe.