With only a few days to go before nationwide independence celebrations, Francistown, Botswana’s second city, is embarking on hosting a memorable independence celebration.
The Assistant District Commissioner of the City, Gobe Macha, told a fully fledged press conference last week in Ntshe House that unlike all past Independence Day celebrations, they, as the organizing committee, have embarked on a number of initiatives, which include bringing in cultural activities to help cultivate the pride and identity of the people of Francistown through these celebrations.
“This year, we have decided to utilize the independence celebrations as a platform to instil pride and identity into the people living in Francistown by blending cultural activities into the celebrations,” he remarked.
Macha further said that it is disheartening to find that a lot of people in Botswana embrace foreign cultures, deviating from their own cultures and customs.
He also added that culture has played a significant role in cultivating the country since its independence from Britain in 1966. He went on to say that, because Francistown is a metropolis, they will incorporate different cultures into the occasion.
Macha pointed out that by embracing culture during this celebration, it will help to lure foreign interests into noticing Botswana from a different perspective.
“I am very impressed to inform you that although we have a challenge of funds in organizing for this event, a lot of organizations have shown a lot of support to us in raising funds,” he said.
Another member of the organizing committee, Botswana Television (BTV) news reporter, Sylvester Toteng, added that culture is a very crucial aspect of every nation and suggested that it would be very impressive if locals could wear attire that represent Botswana, be it in colour or in design. He said that during this special event, culture will also be portrayed in different types of entertainment.
“A lot of people have lost confidence and interest in the celebration of independence day because all along the day has lost its cultural touch and meaning,” he added.
Toteng also urged Batswana to treat the Independence celebrations as they do when the national team, the Zebras, is playing another country with Batswana pledging their full support.
