13 Mar 2025

The much anticipated Clap and Tap musical phenomenon, is set to make its rhythmic and third annual return at the University of Botswana (UB) Indoor Sports Arena on April 26.
After two successful years of igniting the stage with nothing but the sounds of hands and voices, the director and founder of Mabaila Foundation, Tshepang Mabaila, promised that this year will be even better.
“This year is fire,” Mabaila stated in an interview, emphasising that the event continued to grow every year and now includes nearly all church denominations, including Zion, Macecilia, and Mokhukhu, to accommodate a wider audience.
Returning to the stage would be popular choirs such as Universal Khathisma, Dineo tsa Tumelo, and Angels of God.
 Mabaila also addressed the misconception that the Clap and Tap festival caters only to a marginalised group.
“This musical genre is the foundation of much of today’s music, and it is for everyone. It is unfortunate that it was once perceived as something for people of modest means or associated with traditional and ritualistic activities,” Mabaila explained, adding that he has worked hard to bridge this gap.
He celebrated the festival’s recognition by the government and its inclusion on the national calendar.
Mabaila said non-affiliated performers such as Winnie Mashaba and Sechaba from South Africa, will be part of this year’s lineup, appealing to a diverse range of people, regardless of religious background or age.
“The Clap and Tap choirs also consist of many young people, which is instrumental in the reform of our youth, helping them to avoid social ills,” Mabaila said.
He added that the participating choirs are generously rewarded to help sustain their activities such as purchasing their uniforms.
Mabaila revealed that the Mabaila Foundation would donate 20 percent of the event’s proceeds to struggling athletics clubs, supporting their purchase of spikes to encourage the growth of sport, particularly athletics.
“My dream is that one day the Clap and Tap festival will host national prayers, bringing different denominations together under one roof to pray for rain, unity, and peace,” said Mabaila.
Around 5000 people are expected to attend this year’s festival which will run from 1700hours till the following morning, directed by Moakofi William and Constance.  ENDS