BaNgwato finally honour Kgosi Kgamane

Three years after his retirement, the Bangwato will finally gather to pay tribute to their longest serving Regent, Kgosi Sediegeng Harragin Kgamane.The Thanksgiving and Appreciation ceremony will take place on Saturday morning, 20th September 2025, at Serowe Main Kgotla.Some 150 dignitaries, among them Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe, Kgosikgolo Ian Khama IV, and dikgosi from across the country, as well as an estimated 5,000 members of the public, are expected to attend the event.For the people of Serowe, this is an opportunity to correct the past and finally honour a man whose leadership shaped the history of their community.Kgosi Kgamane retired in April 2022 after serving as Regent for 34 years, from 1988 to 2022. At the time, however, the political climate did not allow for a proper send-off, leaving many in the morafedisappointed.Now, the community has come together to organise a befitting farewell.“The time is right to honour him in recognition of his selfless service to the community,” Mosupi Garebatho of the Publicity Committee of the Steering Committee said.Kgosi Kgamane was highly respected and recognised by the Government for his wisdom. He was often called upon to take part in national duties, a sign of the trust placed on him.At the community level, he promoted the spirit of therisanyo (consultation) and self-reliance. These values encouraged people to work together, discuss issues openly, and depend on their own efforts toimprove their lives.He was also instrumental in setting up key institutions that continue to serve the country today. These include the Khama III Memorial Museum, the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, and the Sir Seretse Khama Monument.His decision in 2012 to launch mephato (age regiments) was also historic. It was the last time that regiments were sent for initiation, and it left behind a generation trained to be responsible and accountable members of society.“He was a statesman, not just for Serowe but for the whole nation,” Garebatho said. “His work will be remembered for many years to come.”The Thanksgiving ceremony is expected to be a colourful display of Tswana culture. The programme includes traditional dances, poetry recitals, and traditional food prepared by the community.Dignitaries will share messages of appreciation, while members of the morafe will also be allowed to reflect on Kgosi Kgamane’s impact. Organisers say the event is not just about speeches, but also about bringing people together to celebrate.“We want the atmosphere to reflect our culture and identity,” explained Garebatho. “It will be a day of music, dance, food, and reflection. A day to remember where we come from and to honour the man who guided us.”One of the most important parts of the celebration will be the “Khama The Great Trek” (KTGT), a hike retracing the historical journey of Kgosi Khama III in the late 1800s.The Trek will begin on 15th September 2025 in Shoshong, pass through Old Palapye, Mokgware, and Malaka, and end on 20th September at Serowe Main Kgotla.“The Trek is not just a physical walk,” Garebatho said. “It is about remembering history and teaching young people about the responsibilities of past leaders. We want them to see Khama the Great as a hero, just as other nations have their own heroes.”The Khama the Great Trek is planned to continue every year as a reminder of this important part of the Bamangwato history.Ahead of the ceremony, the morafe has been contributing food, money, and time to support the event. Many have also volunteered to join the organising committees.“The response has been very positive. People are contributing whatever they can, whether it is livestock, grain, or simply volunteering their labour,” Garebatho said.Organisers say the event is also important for the youth. By walking the Trek and attending the Thanksgiving, young people will learn about their roots and the sacrifices of those who came before them.“Young people should know their history and see its relevance in today’s life,” Garebatho said.

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BaNgwato finally honour Kgosi Kgamane