The Chinese community this Saturday gathered at the GICC to celebrate their traditional Chinese New Year also known as the Spring Festival and year of the Tiger. Renowned Chinese artists, magicians and comedians provided entertainment at the celebrations.
Celebrations kicked off with the Chinese Dragon dance which is said to symbolise happiness and oneness among them. Male solo artist Xu Jie then provided entertainment.
Speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to Botswana Liu Huanxing said that the Spring Festival is a major event in the Chinese calendar.
He also explained that the Spring Festival or the Year of the Tiger is symbolic of good fortune.
“The presence of both the Chinese and Batswana at this important occasion is proof of the multicultural cooperation between our two countries,” he added.
On the other hand, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hon. Phandu Skelemani noted that the Chinese New Year celebrations also mark the 35th anniversary of Botswana-Chinese relations.
“The Botswana-China Friendship Association, which is a non governmental organisation aimed at strengthening relations between us has also made tremendous strides in assisting the underprivileged through donations made to SOS and other charitable organisations,” Skelemani said.
“In my view I hope events such as this one work towards bridging the cultural divide, and strengthening the fraternal bonds of friendship between our two peoples,” he said. Skelemani also said that cultural diversity is an important pillar for development, as it exposes one to different facets of human endeavour and philosophy thus unlocking the mind and exposing one to infinite possibilities.
The BCFA donated P20 000 to SOS, something that they have been doing for the past 10 years. The event was also co organized by the BCFA, Botswana Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, Botswana Chinese Enterprises Association, Botswana Fu Jian Chinese Association and the Botswana Jiang Xi Chinese Association.
