01 Sep 2019

The first ever Kanye Kiddies Festival and Family Picnic held on August 31 has attracted mixed reactions from attendees and business people.

The event, organized by Dipopae Party Events, was intended to provide entertainment for both kids and parents, while at the same time giving them an opportunity to bond through traditional games and modern forms of entertainment.

Even though revellers thronged Dilolwe Gorge Garden in large numbers, some had reservations about the activities provided.   

Some parents complained that the event was poorly organised and some activities were not there, contrary to prior advertising.

They said even though the initiative had a great concept to provide entertainment for the whole family, it did not meet their expectations.

“We were excited that finally we will not travel to Gaborone for such entertainment, but we are disappointed because we were looking forward to so many activities that were advertised.

Again, as parents we pay a lot of money to get inside but there are no activities for us,” said one parent who did not want to be named.

However, business people who bought stalls to sell various food items and toys had a different story to tell.

Bame Koosaletse of Sweet Treats said business was good because there was less competition. This, she attributed to the fact that every business was unique hence no competitors.

Nonetheless, she said power cuts disrupted their business since they used electrical machines for ice cream, pop corns and candy floss.

“We could have made more profits if it was not for the power cuts in the morning.

We only started selling in the afternoon when power was restored,” she said.

For his part, the event organizer, Michael Sekaba said the event was well executed, save for a few hiccups.

He said power cuts disrupted some activities but others such as quad bikes and tug of war for both kids and adults went on as planned.

He also said contrary to earlier communication that South African magicians such as Sankara Magic Man will grace the event, they opted for local acts to promote local empowerment.

However, he said since this was their inaugural event, they would evaluate and work towards improving on the next event. ENDS