As anticipated, Maun buzzed with excitement as the second installment of the Nkashi Classic finals unfolded, drawing a vibrant crowd from all walks of life. The event was a spectacular blend of competitive spirit and entertainment, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Okavango Delta.
Koketso Mookodi, co-founder of the Nkashi Classic, reflected on the event’s success: “Following last year’s triumph, we decided to bring the event back to our community. It’s a proud occasion that celebrates the cultural essence of the Okavango Delta and unites us once more.”
The festivities began early in the morning with thrilling Mokoro races, featuring the doubles, veteran male and female, adult male and female and the newly introduced youth male and female categories. This year’s competition was intense, with participants from across the region battling fiercely for the top prizes.
Locals artists among them Stiga Sola, Chokoma and Kuru-a-Boo all brought the crowd to their feet with their electrifying performances.
Prizes were awarded to the top two finishers in each category, with the winners receiving a P10 000 prize. The finals winners in different categories started with the Youth Female Category, Onalethuso Kehemetswe from Boro took first place, while Lasty Kedisa from Boro won the Youth Male Category.
The Veteran Female Category saw Keikantsemang Goreewang from Boro emerge victorious, and Obusitswe Kagiso from Maun claimed the top spot in the Veteran Male Category. In the Doubles Category, Letshabamang Dimbo and Magadeline Nxereku from Boro triumphed, while Olopeng Cheu from Boro won the Female Adult Category, and Gabofiwe Ndara from Seronga secured first place in the Male Adult Category.
Mookodi expressed enthusiasm about the new youth category, “we are thrilled to include the next generation in this tradition. The Nkashi classic is not just a competition, but a way to pass on our heritage and foster communal pride. The term ‘Nkashi’ symbolizes our collective progress towards a brighter future.”
The event concluded with a high-energy performance by Nature BW, which brought the contestants and the public together in a joyful celebration that perfectly capped off Nkashi Classic 2024.
Mookodi wrapped up with gratitude: “We deeply appreciate the community’s support. The passion, competitive spirit, and joy from this event contribute significantly to the social and economic benefits for Batswana. We promise that next year’s event will be even bigger and better.”
