With the previous events attracting patrons from as far as Maun, Francistown and neighbouring countries such as Lesotho and South Africa, the festival has slowly become one of the most sought-after cultural events locally. Each year, the event gets bigger and better with an interesting line-up of performers and DJs. Dr Vom, who has almost become a resident performer at the festival, will be joined by some notable performers such as MmaAusi, Kabelo Tiro aka Skavenja, Kgobola Mr Chinese, Mmurubele, Tse Ditona Tsa Kalawa, Tawana Ya Koma, Matipane, Tshethana A Makhura, Ramotswa Brass Band, Diphala Tsa Setso and Mapipi Moeledi Wa Koma. On the decks will be DJ Basty, DJ Seann Lacoostaq, DJ Trax, DJ Molex, DJ 4DD and DJ Olav Shiz. Speaking at a press conference recently, the festival’s marketing and media relations officer, Henny Maruapula, highlighted Madikwe Cultural Festival’s growth. “Turnout in 2023 was about 200 people while in 2024 we had about 400 people attending the event. This shows the significant growth of the event since its inception. In 2025, we anticipate 600 to 700 people attending the show. This shows significant growth and support from the patrons and culture enthusiasts towards the Madikwe Cultural Festival,” said Maruapula. Maruapula said the event has empowered many people in Kgatleng area such as vendors and security providers. “Women who cook are from the local economy, security is from the local community so they know that every year Madikwe is there and they are part of it.
The event venue, Newville Gardens is always operational for events like weddings, swimming, bridal showers and intimate sessions so there is always local talent being hired to take care of that (maintenance, operations, etc.),” he added. Meanwhile, the founder of the festival, Tshegofatso Powane, said they have added new aspects to their product delivery in order to give the patrons more value for their money. Furthermore, Powane explained that they have enhanced the VIP section to offer patrons an unforgettable experience. Powane stated that they have reduced the number of DJs and added more performing artists to entertain the crowd. “As part of creating sustainable income and to keep the legacy of the event through brand visibility, we have merchandise such as bucket hats and t-shirts available. We have also partnered with a shop in Mmathubudukwane, which is the closest village to Sikwane to sell tickets. In terms of sponsors, we have 4 Eyes Optometrist & Sports Vision Practioner, Oceanic Water, Censh Cleaning Services, DMH Images and Setho Health Solutions,” added Powane.
