Hukuntsi celebrates culture through Dikgafela

Long before speeches filled the Hukuntsi main kgotla last Friday, culture spoke for itself. Women dressed in vibrant leteisi attire made a grand procession into the kgotla with finely woven baskets balanced on their heads, carrying the season’s harvest. Melodious Setswana songs echoed through the gathering, while the rhythmic cracking of a sjambok announced the arrival of the harvest procession.

The kgotla came alive with ululations as men and women in traditional attire welcomed the moment with pride. Every song, step and woven basket reflected more than a successful harvest. It represented a living heritage passed down through generations.

The celebration, held under this year’s theme: Thobo ya Boleng e e Nonofileng, Ngwao le Boitakanelo, reminded the community that Dikgafela was more than a thanksgiving ceremony. It is a celebration of Setswana identity, unity and the values that bind communities together. He explained the event was designed as a two-day celebration.

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The first day, he said was dedicated to the ceremonial presentation of the harvest, while the second focused on festivities through traditional song, dance and cultural performances. Kgosi Leipego said he had anticipated a full kgotla, but noted attendance might have been affected by the recent Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak. Restrictions led to the postponement and cancellation of many public gatherings.

Despite the challenges, he expressed optimism that the annual celebration would continue to grow as a platform for preserving Setswana culture and strengthening community bonds. He also urged parents to bring children and young people to Dikgafela. “Their participation is important in nurturing an appreciation of farming, food production and cultural practices among the next generation,” he said.

Farming, he added, remained a pathway to the future with potential to contribute to the country’s food security and reduce dependence on external sources. He encouraged youth to view agriculture as an opportunity for self-reliance, innovation and economic growth.

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