14 Jan 2019

 Edwin Mothofela is a young man who has engaged in preserving Tswana culture and fighting poverty by undertaking a leather works project.

The optimistic Mothofela from Pitsane of Bana-ba-Tholo Culture and Leatherworks, said he was inspired by culture to start his business, which started in 2010 selling small traditional items such as ditlatlana (woven baskets) and cooking traditional food at cultural festivals.

In an interview, Mothofela explained that his love for cultural heritage led him on a path of taking a course of leatherwork at Local Enterprises Authority in Gaborone, which then translated into a business.

He said his business sells mats, belts, bags, sandals and leather stools. “I attended many cultural events where I interacted with the likes of Kgosi Motshegare and Kgosi Lotlaamoreng of Barolong until I got motivated by former MP, Kitso Mokaila, who encouraged me to apply for the Youth Development Fund,” he explained.

Mothofela said he got funded in 2016 to the tune of P97 037 and was able to buy sewing machines, scarfing machines, leather and other equipment.

He said he buys processed leather from Kgalagadi from the skins of different animals and operates in Pitsane and Gaborone.

He said knowing that the city offered a variety of customers, he opened a second business in Gaborone and has hired one helper who assists while he is in Pitsane.

Mothofela bemoaned the few customers in Pitsane, saying that it made it difficult to generate money to even pay back the loan.

He believes that Batswana have become ignorant of traditions and culture, hence they have less interest for traditional elements. 

“This is true because I used to have white customers from Phakalane who bought these traditional products,” he said.

Mothofela also stated that he faced fierce competition from Chinese shops, which sold leather products at cheap prices that disregard the cost of production.

He said he was aware that every business had its own challenges, but still believed that leatherwork was a good business for him as it was a fulfilment of his cultural quest.

He pleaded with Batswana to support youth businesses and help in preserving culture because it was a source of identity and pride.

Mothofela said he was currently preparing for a youth cultural activity aimed at advocating for cultural awareness among the Barolong youth. ENDS