23 Oct 2023

First lady Neo Masisi has commended the Hambukushu tribe for upholding their culture and tradition.

She said culture gives one identity and integrity hence it was important to promote and preserve it for future generations.

Speaking during the Mbungu Cultural Festival cultural night held under the theme, “Ghomu ghyayendire mapi mo mbo diyenda dithana” translated as ‘tlhako ya morago e gata fa ya pele e gatileng teng’, she said culture defines people’s origin and lifestyle and appreciated the organizing committee for such a brilliant and colourful event, which she said has the potential to connect people.

Masisi said the event depicts their pride in the richness of their cultural heritage.

For his part, the chairperson of Mbungu wa Kathimana Cultural Society, Gilbert Dithindi said the festival had grown in leaps and bounds since its inception. He said this year’s activity featured 34 groups performing different dances such as diware, siwinji and dipera among others.

Some Hambukushu from Namibia and a Wayeyi guest group from Jao Flats also graced the occasion.   

The First Lady was accompanied by the Minister of Finance, Peggy Serame,

Mbungu wa Kathimana is the Hambukushu’s biggest cultural festival, which encompasses celebration of the tribe’s culture, showcasing its different elements including traditional performances, song and dance as well as clothing, food, art and crafts.   

Organized by the Mbungu wa Kathimana Cultural Society, the event aims to preserve and revive the Hambukushu culture as the spectacular event attracts different performing groups in the region to show the diversity of dance and song.  ENDS