25 Aug 2024

His Excellency President Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi emphasised the  potential of  Xere Cultural Festival to enhance tourism in Botswana. 

Speaking during the second edition of the festival over the weekend, President Masisi highlighted that the festival aligned with the government’s commitment to fostering and promoting the rich cultural diversity of Botswana. 

He noted that by showcasing the nation’s heritage, the festival not only attracted visitors but also had the potential to create job opportunities for locals.

Additionally, President Masisi said tourism contributed to improved livelihoods, inclusion, cultural heritage and natural resources conservation, adding that cultural heritage had the potential to contribute significantly to the growth of tourism. He also said cultural tourism could contribute to a more equitable distribution of tourism-based development and the related benefits for local communities.The President, said government had since taken a decision to promote an inclusive society by ensuring that all communities  were included in economic development.

He also said that it was crucial to promote different cultures as a collective to boost economic growth.

He implored the private sector to support Xere Cultural Festival, adding that Basarwa were known for preserving their culture , saying this had borne positive impact.

The President also said it was critical to research on Basarwa to establish how they manage to maintain healthy bodies. He encouraged the public to benchmark from Basarwa and establish what made their  culture unique.   

President Masisi pledged support to  Xere Cultural Festival through attendance annually as well as to market the festival to the international community. 

In addition, he promised that government would build a high standard cultural village and also donated a 4x4 Land Cruiser to Xere Conservation Trust. ends