12 Sep 2024

Renowned Jazz artist, Punah Gabasiane, is set to celebrate a remarkable milestone of 25 years of artistic excellence on October 12. 

The silver jubilee event will honour her musical journey and her legacy as the first woman of jazz in Botswana. 

At a press conference at Molapo on Tuesday, the award-winning musician, known for her powerful voice and soulful performances, reflected on her humble beginnings, passion for music, and the challenges she faced along the way. She said she started musical journey at Ditholwana in 1993 and later joined KTM Choir. 

Punah, as she is commonly known, said she would be celebrated for songs such as Iyoo Nna, Gakeete, Sello sa Malema, Pelo Robala, and Toro, which she would perform during the show. Despite the celebration, she acknowledged that the journey has been far from easy. 

“It hasn’t been an easy journey, but it has been worth every step,” she said, emphasising the importance of perseverance in the creative arts. 

As she marks this significant anniversary, Gabasiane said she remains more committed than ever to her craft. 

Among other things, she plans to mentor emerging artists, share her experiences, and give back to the community that has supported her throughout her career. 

“I believe in lifting others as I climb,” she said, expressing her dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent. 

Legendary musician Makhwengwe Mengwe applauded Gabasiane for her resilience and dedication, even in the face of limited recognition for her artistry and pioneering role in a male-dominated Jazz genre. 

He stressed that artists in Botswana often did not receive the support they deserved, and legends like Gabasiane should be celebrated for their accomplishments. 

Reverend Dumie Mmualefe said the 25^th anniversary celebration was not just a personal milestone for  Gabasiane but also a reflection of the growth and evolution of Botswana’s music industry. 

Looking ahead, he said Gabasiane remained hopeful about the future of the arts in Botswana, calling for more support and recognition of local talent. 

Throughout her career, he said, Gabasiane captivated audiences not only in Botswana but across the African continent and abroad. 

Mmualefe said she had used the music to address societal issues, advocate for women’s empowerment, and inspire young artists to pursue their dreams. 

He said her music, characterised by a rich fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds, resonated with themes of love, struggle, and triumph, especially one song, Gakeete. 

Gaborone Mayor, Austin Abraham, also recognised Gabasiane’s significant contribution to Botswana’s music industry. While he acknowledged that government support for musicians could be improved, he noted that efforts were being made to support artists in various ways. 

Punah Gabasiane’s silver jubilee will feature other prominent women of jazz, including Kearoma Rantao, Nunu Ramogotsi-Neil, Banjo Mosele, Nono Siile, Shanti Loo, Thabang Garogwe, and her sister, former My Star winner Bianca Gabasiane, among others. ENDS