21 Aug 2023

Preparations for the 15^th edition of the annual Dithubaruba Cultural Festival are at an advanced stage.

Speaking during the official launch of the event in Molepolole on Monday, Kgosi Kgari III of Bakwena said this year’s festivities would be held at the newly constructed Ntsweng Heritage Site commonly known as ‘Kwa ga Mmakgosi’ on September 2.

Kgosi Kgari III said the festival provides cultural education that reflects ethnic diversity of the district, while providing leisurely activities that could be enjoyed by everyone.

“There is need for Batswana to continually gather in events such as Dithubaruba to celebrate and learn from one another,” he noted.

He further emphasised the need to teach children to fully embrace their own culture and emulate only the positive elements of alien cultures as they adapt to a fast- changing world.

Kgosi Kgari III noted that amongst multitudes expected to grace the event were Bakwena tribes from South Africa among them Bakwena ba ga Phalane, Batlhaloga from Limpopo, Bakwena ba ga Mogopa, Bafokeng and Bahurutshe Boo Gopane together with their local artistes.

He shared that sponsorship for this year’s event estimated at P750 000 would be used to pay performing artistes, service providers and marketing of the event.

He also revealed that the Dithubaruba had welcomed on board a three-year sponsorship of P250 000 from ABSA Life Botswana.

“For that reason I wish prosperity to all businesses that supported the event and more importantly for helping preserve the culture that defines the society,” said Kgosi Kgari III.

Meanwhile, ABSA Life Botswana managing director Thebe Modikwa said the sponsorship affirmed the organisation’s commitment to the preservation of a rich cultural heritage, ensuring that future generations could trace their stories back and feel a sense of belonging and pride.

“Through Dithubaruba, we hope to honour your past and support a future where every Mokwena child grows up with a deep understanding of their heritage,” said Modikwa.

He also said in an era of rapid globalisation it was tempting to let go of the past to immerse oneself solely in the currents of the present, thus ABSA Life Botswana was pleased to be part of the journey to ensure the spirit of Bakwena remains undiminished for generations to come. ends