Botswana: President of the Republic of Botswana Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi presided over the official opening of the Wayeyi cultural festival in Gumare. The event was hosted on Sunday with the members of the community in attendance.
The commended the Bayeyi community for their dedication to nurturing talent from a young age. The initiative is a measure for ensuring the vibrant culture is passed to generations with enthusiasm and vigor.
The initiative brings together the members of the community in a celebration of the longstanding culture and history. The people of Bayeyi community have been celebrating their culture through the festival for several years.
The President of the country delivered a brief address at the event and expressed his delight in being a part of the initiatiative. President Masisi also celebrated the strengthening of people-to-people relations between Botswana and Namibia.
The Wayeyi cultural festival attracted a large crowd of locals, tourists and admirers to witness the remarkable cultural showcases. The President of the country also applauded the cross-border cultural exchanges that enrich the Wayeyi culture.
During the opening ceremony for the Wayeyi cultural festival President Masisi announced that Shiyeyi will now be taught in schools. The step of the government is being hailed by the people of the country as the language is a very important part of the Wayeyi culture.
The announcement reflects on the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous languages.
Minister Tumiso Rakgare concluded the event with his closing remarks where he thanked the organizers for the successful event. He also highlighted the historic significance of the festival, affirming its lasting impact on the Wayeyi and the broader community.
The day commenced with a heartfelt moment as the tombstone of the late Shikati Fish Malepe Ozoo was unveiled. The people of the community came together to honor his memory and legacy. The festival continued with the attendants enjoying an evening filled with music and dance and celebrating the remarkable culture