The annual Mbungu Cultural Festival was held in Shakawe over the weekend – showing its resilience as a vibrant celebration that highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Hambukushu tribe and serving a greater purpose beyond its festivities of bridging the past and the present, in a pursuit to preserve traditions for future generations.
Kgosi Benson Dibebe, the coordinator of the Mbungu-Wa-Kathimana Society, emphasised the deeper meaning of the festival. “This festival is an opening for the public to witness our cultural heritage. Our tribe has had a long history tied to Botswana, and our hope is to entertain while conserving our culture and sharing it with the next generation. Culture defines people; it helps them understand their roots in order to build future bridges that have a foundation,” he said.
The event drew in tribal leaders from various countries, including representatives from Namibia, Angola, Zambia and Botswana reinforcing the interconnectedness of African cultures. One of the highlights was the inclusion of the Bakgatla Ba ga Mmanaana as well as the performance of Ngwali, which symbolizes Hambukushu initiation ceremony, a poignant reminder of the spiritual and communal rites that define many African tribes.
The Hambukushu, with their history deeply rooted in agriculture and fishing, are also renowned for introducing innovative tools, including fishing traps, which supported their livelihoods for generations and culturally used by women from mother to child. Another unique contribution is their basket-weaving craft, a skill passed down from their ancestors in Angola. These baskets, made of palm fibers and dyed using natural methods, are now a symbol of both artistry and resilience.
Established in 1991, the Mbungu-Wa-Kathimana Society, which organises the festival, continues its mission to safeguard the Hambukushu cultural practices. Through traditional song, dance, and cuisine, the festival not only entertains but educates, reinforcing the importance of heritage in shaping a community’s future.
Finally, Kgosi Dibebe emphasised the importance of cultural expression for future generations, stating, “The coming generations must have the freedom to define their own cultural identity, just as other tribes do. This festival serves as a unifying event for all Hambukushu people to learn from each other. It’s an opportunity to refine our language and preserve the traditions that have shaped who we are.”
As the festival grows, it ensures that the history, customs, and innovations of the Hambukushu tribe remain an integral part of Botswana’s cultural landscape.
