Makwakwa Traditional Group

Makwakwa is a traditional music outfit from Botswana made up of talented individuals who are in love with traditional dance and music. Founded in July 2009, the group has attended and participated in music camps and workshops in and outside Botswana.

Makwakwa has done a handful projects. In 2009 they released an eight-track album titled ‘Alebo Nshe?’ The project touches on a range of social issues across the country. It was followed by the release of a DVD of their first album in 2011.

Members came from groups such as Ditholwana and Mogwana. The groups are known for grooming the country’s traditional dancers and singers. They have worked with Gong Master, a well-known singer and performer of Setswana traditional dance and dikhwaere music. They worked as dancers and backing vocalists. They also worked with Ditiro, another celebrated singer and performer of Setswana traditional dance and dikhwaere music.

The ensemble has done a number of tours. In 1995 lead singer of the group Bakang Motlhajwa attended a cultural programme exchange in the U.S. on behalf of the group. Other group members namely Moses Phokwe and Utlwanang Mosweu travelled Disney, in the U.S. in 2005 where they showcased their country’s culture. In 2008 a section of the group was selected to attend a tour in India.