It’s quarter past 7, and about 750 delegates from over fifty countries have gathered for a cultural night—one of the many activities at the 2024 Africa Tourism Leadership Forum.

Right beneath the Three Dikgosi Monument, under the bronze sculpture honouring three tribal chiefs: Khama III, Sebele I, and Bathoen I, who played crucial roles in gaining independence for Botswana, the musical group led by Kabelo Mogwe is giving the delegates and audience a musical liberation, churning out hit after hit.

Culture Spears burst onto the Botswana music scene in 2005, and more than two decades later, they are still making waves, remaining the toast of both the young and the old.

The Tswana traditional music group Culture Spears is definitely using their musical spear to dominate the music game.

And right here in the central business district of Gaborone, the leader of the group, Kabelo Mogwe, is performing one of their hit songs titled "Kulenyane." The song addresses infidelity, adultery, and promiscuity, cautioning against such behaviour.

"Kulenyane" has been described as the first traditional song to be played on urban radio stations, which once shunned traditional music. The group performs at prominent events in and outside Botswana, winning numerous awards and becoming one of the most successful groups in Botswana’s local music industry. Culture Spears was awarded the Presidential Award of Merit and was invited by South African President Thabo Mbeki to perform for him in 2008.

Although the group was established more than twenty years ago, they have adapted to the times to stay connected with younger audiences who may be drifting toward contemporary music. They livestream all their musical activities and use social media platforms like TikTok, X (formerly known as Twitter), and Facebook to reach young people. Kabelo Mogwe says they want the youth to embrace their culture.

“We usually go live on TikTok and Facebook; we livestream our shows and all our activities. We also go live on TikTok to speak to young people about the importance of embracing their culture,” he said.

Culture Spears has travelled across Africa and various parts of the world, earning admiration globally. Kabelo Mogwe stated, “We have been to many parts of the world—name them all—and we take along our craft. We are part of the musical ambassadors of our country.”

Kabelo Mogwe also mentioned that the group looks forward to performing more shows in different parts of the world.