Media Statement
March 22,2023
Hon MEC Kenetswe Mosenogi responsible for the Department of Arts, Culture, Sports,
and Recreation is elated and thankful for the successful hosting of Mahika Mahikeng
Cultural Festival held in Mmabatho Stadium from the 17th to 19 March 2023.
It all started as an illusion and a pariah for many who believed less that it can successfully
happen, and they had to see for themselves with amazement and disbelieve, “EDUTSE
MAHIKA MAHIKENG E DUTSE”.
I do not know where to start and where to end, however, I would like to express my sincere
and unpretentious message of gratitude for the overwhelming support we received from
all stakeholders. Thousands of revellers assembled at Mmabatho Stadium parking lot to
enjoy and grace the event which did not take place a period of three years. The turnout
is indicative and a confirmation that government has taken the right move with in staging
Mahika Mahikeng during this period. Furthermore, we are pleased that this event was
accident and incident free, “said MEC Mosenogi”
Indeed, this could not have been possible if it was not because of the collaboration and
contribution of all stakeholders. The safety of the people in all our events is a first priority,
and this was taken care of, with the excellent support provided by SAPS and Department
of Community and Transport Management. Our host city of Mahikeng surely welcomed
our visitors’ holding hands with the leadership of Kgosi Jeff Montshioa who hosted us
during the blissful reception at Barolong Boo Ratshidi Kgotla.
Significantly our strategic and reliant partners, the media, from far and near including our
neighbouring Botswana undoubtedly did spread the word.
The main course for three days was served by the artists themselves who were well
prepared for the occasion and serenaded us with good vibes.
Our service provider Megaworks did not disappoint and went prepared very well for the
Gospel, Jazz and soul as well as Amapiano on the last day of the event.
We are now looking forward to another instalment of Mahika Mahikeng Cultural festival
in December 2023 (date to be announced soon). We have ample time to prepare, and
music lovers, the creative sector should expect a bigger and better event, and as Mahika
Mahikeng is growing bigger, we will we will ensure that the logistics fit the occasion,
concluded MEC Mosenogi.