01 May 2024

 South Africa’s gospel vocalist, Solly Moholo has promised to release a tribute song in remembrance of the 45 Batswana who perished in a bus crash at Mamatlakala bridge in South Africa on a pilgrimage to Moria on Easter Eve. 

Moholo of Ke Latlhile Botsotsi fame announced his plans during the second edition of the Mabaila Foundation Clap and Tap Musical Festival held in Gaborone over the weekend. 

He said he was deeply moved by the tragedy and felt he should also play a part in soothing the broken hearted through ‘what he knows best’. 

He said 50 per cent of the profits generated from the song would be channelled towards assisting grieving families, a testament that music was not only about entertainment, but also to make a difference in people’s lives, especially during such trying times. 

“To President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi and the entire nation, I am here to console you; we are all in this together, and music can help to reach out to those impacted. I hope the song will bring comfort and healing during this difficult time,” he said.

Also, gospel artiste, Dr Rebecca Malope from South Africa also sent condolences to the aggrieved families.

“It is not easy to just accept the loss of a loved one, but I want to assure you that God is with you through it all, he will heal and comfort you with strength and the wisdom to navigate through it all during this trying time,” she said.

Dr Malope completed her message with the song, Angigedwa, which translates as ‘I am not alone.’ 

Her contagious lively performance and powerful voice were nothing short of astounding, despite the sound system's limitations.

Her other songs including, Tshwarelo ya Dibe tsa Me, Moya Wame and Ngibonga Wena Jeso that she also performed kept attendants on their toes and begging for more.

The Universal Kathisma Apostolic Church in Zion group, also from South Africa, known for their electrifying performance did not disappoint either, with their songs Emmanuel, Moporofita and Ke na le Modisa.Local Clap and Tap groups, Dineo tsa Tumelo, Maatla Gospel Choir and Angels of God also delivered a captivating performance.

Tshephang Mabaila, the director and founder of Mabaila Foundation said the festival had grown significantly since its debut a year ago.

He said the festival’s objective was to reach out to the needy while also assisting in attempts to rehabilitate the young people in need.He said the festival’s was to bring young and old people together under one roof for entertainment purposes. This was also done to provide local Clap and Tap groups with exposure for potential development. ENDS