Mapetla’s untimely deathEarlier in March, the nation was plagued by grief following the tragic death of talented Kwaito star, Thabo ‘Mapetla’ Ntirang. The 41-year-old musician died in the early hours of Monday, March 4, 2024, succumbing to injuries he sustained in a car accident that happened in Phakalane. Mapetla, who shot to fame at the age of 23 in the early 2000s when his kwaito album, Phantsi’ Phezulu, took the country by storm, had become a household name in the local music scene. His death soured the mood and plunged the nation into mourning.
The NACB squabbleWhile the boardroom war at the National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB) started last year after the then CEO, Shombie Ellis, was suspended indefinitely, things took an interesting twist early this when the matter reached Parliament. The then Minister of Youth, Gender, Sports and Culture, Tumiso Rakgare, was at pains to explain to Parliament the real issues at the Council. A month later, Ellis was reinstated following an inquiry into the matter, whose results were not made public. But the issue resurfaced again in October when Ellis was fired from her post, prompting her to seek legal redress from the High Court.
At the same time, there has been light in the dark, with many creatives proving their ability to turn challenges into opportunities.
Chombo crowned 71st Miss World Africa
Lesego Chombo was crowned Miss World Africa after an impressive showing at the 71st Miss World competition held at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, India, on March 9, 2024. Although she fell just short of winning the coveted title of Miss World, Chombo’s journey to the top four captured the hearts of many and also made her a symbol of pride for her home country. Chombo, a stunning beauty with a heart of gold, had initially been a dark horse in the competition. But later on, Chombo wowed the judges and the audience alike with her poise and eloquence, shining bright in every round.
The birth and rise of music stars
Monnamogolo wa ThulaganyoAfter being in the music industry for a long time, Monnamogolo wa Thulaganyo finally got his career breakthrough following the release of his hit song, Thoma ka Serethe, which went viral on different social media platforms. The man became an instant star as he headlined several music shows both locally and in South Africa. He thus ends the year on a high with another song, titled Tsena Rasta. The song looks like it will get the same hype as Thoma ka Serethe.
Chokoma and Juu Matere
Chokoma and Juu Matere are two dynamic artists putting the Kgalagadi region on Botswana’s music map. Chokoma was the first of the two artists from Kgalagadi to gain national recognition. He has captivated audiences with his fusion of modern Kwasa Kwasa and the unique Gantsi sound. His blend of traditional rhythms with contemporary beats like Mother Tongue has earned him numerous accolades, including Best Upcoming Artist at the Kgalagadi Music Awards and Best Male Artist during the BOMU Awards.
On the other hand, Juu Matere, a rising star in his own right, has made waves with his soulful voice and innovative approach to music. Known for his captivating stage presence and powerful lyrics, Juu Matere has steadily gained recognition across Botswana and beyond.
Like Chokoma, he embodies the Kgalagadi spirit, blending regional influences with modern genres to create a sound that is distinctly his own. Juu’s collaborations with renowned artists, including Chokoma, Baxon and Khoisan have further cemented his place in Botswana’s music scene, while his solo project like ‘O tshameke’ continues to inspire and resonate with listeners. Together with Chokoma, their achievements highlight the growing recognition of the region’s unique sound and the diverse talent that continues to emerge from Botswana’s lesser-known areas. Their rise signifies not just personal success but a cultural shift in the country’s music scene, with both artists poised to leave a lasting legacy.
Lioness RatangAfter taking to social media to vent out about how she was not getting any bookings, Lioness Ratang’s star started to shine brighter. The 22-year-old is among the few local artists who are breaking barriers in the music scene locally and in South Africa. Her lyrical prowess adds a unique dimension and touch to the songs. She has been featured on the hit track, Nako Tsele, by Casswell P. The song still remains fresh. More broadly, this was a year in which the music industry upped its game. To sum it all up, 2024 has been a year to remember for the creative industry as a whole, and cannot wait to see what 2025 holds.
