23 Apr 2024

First Lady Neo Masisi joined 30 cyclists from the Trans-Kalahari Corridor (TKC) member countries of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa at a cultural night held in their honour in Tsootsha on Monday.

The First Lady was accompanied by the Minister of Transport and Public Works, Eric Molale, Ghanzi South MP, Motsamai Motsamai, and other dignitaries.

The men and women riders had a time to unwind with Setswana tradional music.

Different groups from Ghanzi  region showcased their craft to the appreciation and excitement of the cyclists, who alternatively joined in the performances.

Riders had to enjoy tsutsube, polka and herero dances as well as poetry.

Earlier on, upon arrival of cyclists in Tsootsha, they were welcomed with ululations, whistles and cheers from pupils, clad in their uniforms waving Botswana and the district council flags.

Women adorned in traditional leteise attire commonly known as basadibotlhe and men in ther tradional herero hats and leather attires came in numbers at the kgotla to welcome the pioneers of the historic cycling tour.

Masisi appreciated the riders for their commendable efforts in taking part in the Cycling for the TKC event, which seeks to promote the safety and security of the corridor.

For cyclists, it was a memorable moment especially those from Namibia and South Africa as they witnessed the rich culture of Botswana in song and dance.

Their representative, Herman Simon expressed gratitude to the law enforcement for their support since the peloton entered Botswana from Rustenburg last week.

He said they were grateful for being the pioneers of the cycle tour and also appreciated taht they had to learn more about the history of the Trans Kalahari Corridor.

Simon, a Namibian cyclist, encouraged and urged the youth to make use of their passion and use the corridor as their economic hub for improved livelihoods.

The TKC cycle tour is one of the many activities by the TKCS used to promote the corridor, and also to mark the 20th anniversary celebrations of the corridor. ENDS