Mahikeng- Statistics reveal that Setswana culture and the language is gradually diminishing in South Africa. Again, Setswana is least passed subject amongst learners, who study the subject.

“This is a sad reality we are faced with and the Department of Culture, Arts and Traditional Affairs (DCATA) is hard at work to restore Setswana Tradition and Culture back into society where it belongs,” said MEC for DCATA Mme Tebogo Modise.

These words were uttered during the Barolong Boo Rra Tlou Ba Ga Seitshiro “Tsosoloso ya Ngwao Boswa” Cultural event held in Madibogo over the past weekend.

Barolong Boo Seitshiro under the leadership of Kgosi Phoi in partnership with the Department lead proceedings in celebration of Barolong history to urge elders, Traditional Leadership and historians to share and document cultural knowledge available for future reference.

“The objective of hosting such events is to promote cultural tourism through heritage and indigenous knowledge systems as well as promote and honour cultural heritage of Batswana and other indigenous communities in the Province”, said MEC Modise.

The day saw speakers sharing their knowledge regarding history of Barolong Boo Seitshiro with the community especially the youth and how they settled in Madibogo. They also spoke of how westernisation has taken over the lives of current generations, that they have lost focus on tradition and the way of life, which has led to diseases youngsters are prone to today.

Dignitaries who attended the event included Kgosi Seatlholo, Kgosi Letlhogile, Kgosi Moshoete, Kgosi Mokgakolodi, Kgosi Suping, Kgosi Mabe and Ratlou Local Municipality’s Mayor amongst others.

The Department has identified possible places of Heritage in the area and will be back to research further. This will assist classifying them in different categories such as National, Provincial or Local heritage sites and will attract tourism within the North West Province.

“The Department is also in talks of partnership with Botswana to promote arts and culture, as well as to re-ignite the passion of our culture amongst the youth which we hope will bring forth pride,” concluded MEC Modise.-TDN
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