24 May 2021

In the outskirt of Ranaka at Sebubi Ward along B105 road that runs from Ranaka to Mogobane sprawls a multifaceted recreational facility named  Downstream Gardens.

A recreational park, Downstream Gardens is exploring ways through which to heighten local talent in different spheres.

Owner, Mr Caster Mothibedi, explains to BOPA in an interview that hosting shows will help the recreational park realise the objectives of heightening local talent in various ways given there will be cross pollination of skills.

Mr Mothibedi says the facility that sits on a two-hectare chunk of land affords Batswana more especially southerners an opportunity for sport and entertainment, thus diverting the youth from bad behavior such as alcohol and substances abuse.

He adds that the facility promotes entertainment, sport and cultural tourism as well as other sectors that might improve the lives of Batswana. Such a recreational centre, he reckons, helps to sidetrack people from social ills that are a menace to the country.

The facility hosts volleyball games, festivals, talent shows, family fun day activities as well as other indoor and outdoor functions.

Mr Mothibedi says the facility also offers five-aside football training sessions to football clubs at any levels.

He further explains that the facility also provides for training on a sand pitch for beach soccer and volleyball as well as athletes on sand terrain for them to strengthen their muscles, core body to build endurance.

There is a restaurant that caters for training teams, says Mr Mothibedi pointing out that such a move creates a platform for sport development.

The sand terrain also offers an opportunity to work out, he says.   He notes that in the past the facility hosted high profile events such as weddings; both indoor and outdoor parties, meetings, retreats and other events.

In addition, the recreational park boasts a kids’ corner fitted with jumping castles and other amusement park equipment.

However, Mr Mothibedi says much depends on what the clientele wants to do but unfortunately nowadays they are restricted by COVID-19 protocols hence confine themselves to two hours and the prescribed 50 people as per the protocols.

The picturesque of the recreational facility creates a perfect scene for photo shoots, he adds pointing out that some come as individuals, businesses or for weddings.

Mr Mothibedi says he also offers portable tents. Conversely, on normal situations people can bring their own for wedding events or any other activity, noting the facility is capable of providing tents for 100 to 300 people, adding every wedding event can be done at the venue citing payment of a bride token/bogadi, provision of pots and music.

He adds that the clientele is spoilt for choice as one can choose self-catering or they can choose catering services if need be.

There are change rooms and ablution block that complement the scenic beauty of the landscape.

The recreational park has industrial gas stoves to cater for a large number of people in post COVID-19 era as well as a fire boma where traditional pots can be used to prepare traditional cuisine, notes Mr Mothibedi.

He says the venue also hosts church services with customers mainly from Kanye and Lobatse. The fish pond is taking shape which after completion the centre will venture into aqua-culture and diversify into agro-tourism.

Mr Mothibedi says health and safety are a priority as they are an important aspect of business. He says  they respect and take care of the clientele hence a lot of signage to keep people informed and remind them about safety precautions or requirements in the area. ENDS