Son of the Soil returns
Seventeen or so years ago, Bana ba Mmala Trust conceptualised one of the biggest cultural festivals in Botswana, Son of the Soil. Held annually, in the first quarter of the year usually in February or March, the event is one of the most popular events that attracts culture lovers from all walks of life. But for two years, regular attendants of the events have had to make do without their favourite event. When events opened up after the blackout caused by Covid- 19 pandemic, many have wondered when their beloved event was returning. Well, the wait is over, Son of the Soil is returning in February 4, 2023. Next year, will mark the 16th edition of the cultural extravaganza.
History of the Son of Soil event can be traced back to 2005 in Tlokweng where everything first started. It was conceived and organised by a group of youth known as Bana Ba Mmala Trust ( BBMT), as a way to relive, learn and enjoy Botswana’s rich culture. The founders of Son of the Soil are no longer youthful as it was the case years ago. And they have taken into account the fact that they need fresh brains and blood to elevate and take the event to the next level. It is on this background that they have forged a three- year partnership with a local company, Beat Box. One of the highlights of the Son of the Soil events has been the fierce battle of choirs between the North and South choirs. Big Son of the Soil lovers always look out for this particular item in the programme. And all the choirs do not take this activity for granted. Each year, the choirs go all out, with each wanting to unseat their opponents. And getting the title for the best choir is one battle that many look forward to. This will hopefully be the same thing in February next year. Other highlights of the event include the traditional attires. Organisers are always strict with this one, and revelers are expected to dress in strictly traditional attires.
This week, Bana Ba Mmala Trust Chair, David Kepaletswe teased the media about what they can expect in the new year. Not wanting to give away too much, he confirmed that the event was returning in February 2023.
Speaking during a media briefing held at Botswana Craft on Tuesday morning, he explained that they have had a long discussion about the event and its direction. He further said that the event being one of the biggest events in Botswana was returning, but that this time around, they were bringing in new faces when it comes to running and organizing the event.
“In recognition of the brand, we felt that we need a partner who can rejuvenate the brand, and Beat Box is that partner. They will be revamping and taking the event to the next level,” he said.
He further said that they will continue hosting the event in the first quarter of the year.
For his part, Dj Boogie Sid, the brains behind Beat Box noted that this was an important occasion for his company. He further said that the company has been around for a year, and that they have worked on events that include the Orange 555 Monyaka, Kabelano Charity Cup, Goledzwa Music Festival, as well as Son of the Soil ( 2020). He explained that at the last Son of the Soil edition of 2020, they were working on the logistics and groundwork for the Jazz event held at Serokolwane Farm.
“Because of the association, we wanted to take the partnership further,” he explained.
He also explained that the founders of the Trust have grown and that they also have responsibilities that limit them when it comes to the event hence this partnership. “They wanted to associate it with people who can grow this mother of all cultural events in Botswana,” he stated.
He further said that his company was looking forward to working with talented and dedicated youth such as Kealeboga Matlhaku who is one of the lead people. Other youths, will be bringing expertise in different fields including content creation, digital media, and the whole production of the event.
“We want the event to speak to the youth,” he explained.
He also highlighted that they will continue to have conversations around culture themed Kgotla, as well as Metswaiso Chillers, while other highlights include Dikhwaere, setapa, traditional food and attire.