17 Jun 2024

Traditional music and dance groups in Maun are appealing to the tourism industry to make use of their services and promote cultural tourism.

They reckon in some countries, such music and dance is an important component of the tourism product.

Artists raised the concern in random interviews saying the genre could make part of cultural tourism.

Siyana Hetu expressed a concern that Ngamiland region had many safari companies and hospitality facilities receiving travelers regularly but they never engaged them to showcase what the region could offer in terms of traditional song and dance. 

He said the tourism industry and the creatives could collaborate and promote cultural tourism, a component that he said remained untapped in the country. Hetu, popularly known as Taucha Taucha in the music circle stated that in South Africa, the tourism industry and traditional music artistes worked hand in hand noting that the former normally engaged traditional musicians to entertain visitors during their arrival and stay. Here in Botswana he noted, some safari companies used staff members to welcome visitors instead of engaging artistes.

“Tourists arrive in our country unaware that there is a vibrant culture and I believe that collaboration between the two sectors can make a difference and showcase Botswana’s unique and diverse cultures,” said Hetu. He said Botswana had abundant talent which could spice up tourism. 

Hetu noted that traditional music was an important element of cultural identity which he said was growing fast and if explored could stimulate economic growth, and empower communities. 

Another artiste, Kebonyetsala Samoko also appealed to the tourism industry players to make use of their services. He said in areas like Chobe, traditional troupes had grown because of support from safari companies and lodges which engaged them.

 “Our region has an incredibly rich culture with many ethnic groups that can showcase their diverse cultures and unique traditional dance styles. Traditional dance is a beautiful way of communicating and showcasing culture and every dance style expresses the culture to which its dances belong and that a special thing to do,” noted Samoko. Ends