THE BOTSWANA PRISON BOSS

On a mission to make good of the bad

It was not a smooth walk in for Colonel Silas Motlalekgosi when he took over as Commissioner of Prisons from Herman Kau, last year.
The second member of the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) to head Prisons after the retired Brigadier Justice Sebolao, who served as Commissioner of Prisons from 1996-1998, all Motlalekgosi demands is to be given a chance to prove his worth. MOSES MARUPING chats him up.

Why does Botswana Prisons Service exist?
The Botswana Prisons Service exists to protect the society by actively encouraging and assisting offenders to become law abiding citizens through empowerment of staff and abiding by the disciplinary code of conduct. We will exercise reasonable, safe, secure and humane control of offenders in order to achieve National Security, Peace, Tranquility and Economic Growth. The objectives of the Service are to provide safe custodial care to prisoners; to provide effective rehabilitation programmes to prisoners as well as to provide efficient administration of prisons and resources.

To what extent does adult literacy education offered in Botswana prisons prepare its recipients for life after completion of their prison term?
Prisoners are offered training in various trade skills to make them competitive in the labour market after release from prison in an effort to reduce the incidence of crime and re-offending.
Rehabilitation of prisoners involves helping them to identify their weaknesses, which led them to prison to be able to avoid them in future and also learn to build on their strong points in order to face life with confidence and positive determination after release from prison. Very soon I want to start an initiative in which prisoners will be enrolled to pursue training in partnership with the public sector, business community and individuals. I will then approach companies to offer attachment services for these prisoners whilst serving extra-mural labour.

Are there any success stories that demonstrate that indeed ex-prisoners have used the education to make a living?
Yes, indeed. We have a classic example of a former prisoner who is running his own tyre services workshop in Serowe. This gentleman exhibited his products during a Labour Fair held last month. We also have church ministers, pastors and counselors. All these individuals are graduates of our prison education system. I want to implore society to stop shunning prisoners. They are an integral part of our society and it’s everybody’s responsibility.

How will your military background contribute to the efficient running of the country’s Prison Services?
I’m of the view that wars can’t be won by machines alone but by man and combination of machines. I do believe effective communication and flexibility in an organization can work wonders for everybody. Both my academic and professional background will convince you. I graduated from Lacrosse University in Louisiana, USA with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Administration in 2002. I also completed Executive Project Management from the University of Botswana in 2008 as well as a Certificate in Principles of Management from Cameron University in Oklahoma, USA.
Mind you, I joined the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) in 1987 as an Officer Cadet (trainee) and I was appointed to take charge of various responsibilities in the army’s Artillery, some of which include Commanding Officer for Field Regiment in 2004 and Commander 11 Artillery Brigade in 2007. My military training include Senior Army Command Course (Sacc) from Nanjing Army Command College in China from 2005-2006, Training, Planning, Management and Development course (TPMD), which was conducted in Botswana through United States government for African Contingency Operations Training and Assistance (ACOTA) in 2007. My military training on Command level is qualified by attending the US-Army Command and General Staff Course (USCGSC) in Ft Leavenworth Kansas, USA.
Some of my achievements include coordinating BDF and African Contingency Operations Training and Assistance (ACOTA) and Peace Support Operations (PSO) initiatives. I was Liaison Officer for BDF Second United Nations Operations in Somalia of which I was awarded the United Nations Peace Keeping Medal (UNISOM), following my return from peacekeeping mission in Somalia in 2004. President Ian Khama also bestowed me with the Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) for my devotion and dedication in the service.


Do you feel that you are the right man for the job?

I strongly believe so and all I can say is that time will tell. I really want to leave behind a good legacy. I strongly believe in self-discipline.

Could you tell us what you consider as priority areas of your reform programme in the Prison Services?
If you recall I was appointed Commissioner of Prisons on a 2-3 years secondment term effective from 6 October 2008. My aim is to re-strategize and restructure several initiatives within the prison service. This will be achieved through improving conditions of service and turning the tables around. By this I mean, improving prison security, infrastructure and training as well as conditions of service.

How are you going to resolve vocal discontentment expressed in some circles including Parliamentarians about being a personnel from the military heading the Prison Services?
I didn’t decide to be here. All I know is that I was brought here because the powers that be felt that I was capable. I would not want to entertain negative views from detractors who continue to label us as President Khama’s babies (favourites) by discriminating against former army officers. We in the disciplined forces believe that the mission comes first and everything and everybody is subordinate to the mission. My military background will come in handy in executing my duties proficiently. We’re all Batswana and we’re here to serve.

What is the desired staff/prisoner ratio?
Internationally, the acceptable ratio is 1-4 or 1-6 officers per prisoners. However, here at home we’re still struggling as you find that we’re currently sitting at 1-25, which is way beyond these figures.

How could you improve this ratio?
This can only be achieved by improving the whole package by way of restructuring and improving conditions of service. In short, we need to re-strategize, reshape and remodel. We also need highly qualified professionals.

Do you feel the staff recruitment procedures for prison officers come up with personnel capable of dealing with prisoners?
To some extend yes. However, we need to improve our recruitment and screening of prospective employees to effectively deal with prisoners.

What strategies would you bring on board to maintain the prison population at manageable levels?
This is something that the Attorney General’s Chambers and other relevant stakeholders are looking at, alternative sentencing. People who are found guilty on certain minor offences should not be necessarily sent to jail.

Do you know how many years the longest serving prisoner/s have done?
Yes, we do. The prisoner has been in prison for the past 28 years.

Should prisoners be given condoms to prevent HIV/AIDS and other communicable disease transmissions?
These are policy issues. What I do know is that sodomy is a criminal offence in and out of prison.

What do you like about Botswana?
The peace and tranquility that prevails.

What do you hate?
Negative and uninformed criticism.

What is your favourite past time?
I’m a dedicated sports fanatic. I used to play football but these days I spend most of my spare time at my farm.

Do you have any last words?
I would like to pay respect and gratitude to all the officers who continue to make a difference in the prisons service including past commissioners who despite all the hardships stood the test of time. Despite the challenges my officers continue to do a good job. They do more with less.

PERSONAL PROFILE

FULL NAMES: Silas Motlalekgosi
D.O.B: Sometime in 1965
P.O.B: Molepolole
HOME VILLAGE: Molepolole
HOBBIES: Mostly sports and farming.
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS: Bsc Degree in Public Administration, and Certificate in Principles of Management
CAR DRIVING: I don’t have a car and I’m not into cars. I hire when the need arises.
DREAM CAR: None
MARITAL STATUS: Married to Malebogo Motlalekgosi and we have three beautiful kids
CURRENTLY READING: The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy, 25 Ways to Win with People by John Maxwell and the Holy Bible.
FAV MOVIE: Boyz in the Hood
FAV ACTOR/ACTRESS: Denzel Washington and Haille Berry
ROLE MODEL: My mother, Mmabatshidi Motlalekgosi

IN HIS OWN WRITE WITH RUDEBOY NECTA

DOMINIC MOTOLOKI A.K.A COMING SOON


CHOREOGRAPHER

IN THREE WORDS, I AM...

Creative, sociable and loving.

IF I’M FRIGHTENED OF ANYTHING IN LIFE, IT’S...

Thieves and diseases.

IF I COULD TRAVEL BACK IN TIME I’D SET THE DIALS FOR...

My days in Zambia (1999) as a struggling performer.

MY FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...

My mum, Josephine Motoloki.

MY LEAST FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...

The Devil-Satan, but generally I love everybody.

THE LAST TIME I LOOKED IN THE MIRROR I THOUGHT...

One day I’m going to be very successful.

IF I HAD TO LEAVE A BODY PART TO SCIENCE, IT WOULD BE...

My limbs-they’re the reason I survive.

MY DEFINITION OF LOVE IS...

A warm affection one feels towards those s/he cares about.

THE LAST TIME I VOMITED, IT WAS BECAUSE OF...

Drinking Black Label beer on an empty stomach.

THE GREATEST LESSON LIFE HAS TAUGHT ME IS...

Never ever give up.

IF I KNEW THE WORLD WAS ENDING TOMORROW, THEN TODAY I’D...

Prepare myself for my final destination to the Pearly Gates of Heaven.

THE SONG I WANT PLAYED AT MY FUNERAL IS...

Any Gospel hymn that will cheer up the bereaved.

I WANT MY TOMBSTONE TO READ...

Here lies Coming Soon, the greatest dancer of our times. Rest in Peace Mr. Motoloki.


IN PURELY MONETARY TERMS, I AM WORTH ROUGHLY...

A lot of zeros. Let me just say I’m expensive.

NEED-TO-KNOW

1). Botswana’s number one dancer, Coming Soon, whose choreography moves are the envy of many in the local music circles was born Dominic Motoloki in Chirilabongwe , Zambia on April 4, 1982.
Coming Soon as he’s popularly known by legion of music fans locally said the village where he was born is situated on the border of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia.
 He explained that although he grew up in Zambia where his Zairian mother was married, he has also spent most of his teenage years in DRC. 
“However, my mother’s marriage didn’t last long as the two divorced and we all went back to DRC.” 

The talented dancer who continues to put a sizzle in Vee’s shows courtesy of his acrobatic dance moves revealed that he took interest in performing arts from an early age.
 “I started way back in 1999 with a Zambian Kwasa-Kwasa group called Green Labels. It was an army band and I doubled as a dancer and rapper. Life was tough then and I didn’t stay long in the group.”
 


2). Coming Soon said during the year 2000, he joined yet another Kwasa-Kwasa group of Maureen Bongola. 
‘Things were a bit promising with her as she was also a backing singer for Olivier Mtukudzi. Mind you, during those times Mtukudzi was big and I had hoped I would get a chance to perform with him. But things as usual didn’t pan out as expected and I packed my bags and joined another group in Zimbabwe called College Musica. This was in 2001.”

He did not stay long with the latter as he once more joined another group dubbed New Stars Musica, a group which will later bring the young man into our Botswana shores in September 2003 where he joined a group called Extra Melody until Vee offered him a competitive package in 2007.

3). Quizzed on where he gets his inspiration from, Coming Soon ascribed his phenomenal success to one of DRC’s greatest Kwasa-Kwasa musicians known as Werson.
‘ This man is talented and he’s big in my country; DRC. Some of the dance moves, which I do here, I would have copied from him. Take for instance the popular ‘Sanola’ dance. I first saw it from him and I brought it into Botswana. However, I don’t just copy everything. Some of the moves you see me doing on stage are a result of my creativity and hard work.”

4). Coming Soon is currently in a relationship with a good-looking Motswana girlfriend and the two have a one-year-old daughter called Michelle. 
 “I love these two women and I plan to spend the rest of my life with them. I could only pray that God do continue to smile upon my life for me to realize my dreams.”
He enjoys Pap, Rice and Chicken on any given day.
 His advice to those who want to make a thriving career out of choreography is, “practice and always bring something new to the stage. You should also be active on stage all the time.”

HELLEN GOLEKANE MATHUDI DIKOBE

PERFORMING ARTIST


IN THREE WORDS, I AM...
Gentle, loving and full of fun person.

IF I’M FRIGHTENED OF ANYTHING, IT’S...
Failure.

IF I COULD TRAVEL BACK IN TIME I’D SET THE DIALS FOR...
I don’t look back in my life for the simply reason that I don’t have any regrets so far.

MY FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...
My mother, Ruth Dikobe.

MY LEAST FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...
I try not to hate or dislike except for the Devil/Satan.

THE LAST TIME I LOOKED IN THE MIRROR I THOUGHT...
Damn I’m beautiful.

IF I HAD TO LEAVE A BODY PART TO SCIENCE, IT WOULD BE...
My heart; I have a good and loving heart and I would want whoever that gets it to use it wisely.

MY DEFINITION OF LOVE IS...
Gentle, but it can be bitter and sweet.

THE LAST TIME I VOMITED, IT WAS BECAUSE OF...
Untidiness; it makes me puke.

THE GREATEST LESSON LIFE HAS TAUGHT ME IS...
Live a day today and don’t apologize for it tomorrow.

IF I KNEW THE WORLD WAS ENDING TOMORROW, THEN TODAY I’D...
Spend the whole day with my beloved ones; family and those close to me.

THE SONG I WANT PLAYED AT MY FUNERAL IS...
‘You’re true joy’ by Letta Mbulu and Caiphus Semenya.


I WANT MY TOMBSTONE TO READ...
Here lies Hellen; a loving friend, daughter and the greatest singer of our times.

IN PURELY MONETARY TERMS, I AM WORTH ROUGHLY...
An unlimited number of zeros.

NEED-TO-KNOW
1). Born at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Johannesburg on June, 6, 1980, Hellen Dikobe is a talented Afro-Pop singer who as a lady continues to triumph where many fear to trod.
The dreadlocked woman who hails from the small village of Mabalane in the Kgatleng District explained that her father who sadly passed away in 2003 was the reason why she was born at the famous African hospital as during that time the old man was working in one of South Africa’s gold mines.
‘All I know is that we hail from Mabalane. However I didn’t grow up there. I spent most of my life in the city, Gaborone where I attended Ben Thema, Maoka and St. Joseph’s College. I’m glad that most of the country’s renowned celebrities all come from this school. Take the likes of Vee, myself, DJ Sid for instance. Ha-ha!’ noted Hellen with a vivacious smile.
The woman with an ear-piercing voice added that she had always wanted a career in music and so far she had no regrets whatsoever.
‘Music has always being my first love. After completing Cambridge I started doing gigs with the Clement Jackson Crew as a backing singer. I only went solo four years ago with the release of my debut album titled ‘Black Woman’ which had tracks such as the popular ‘Kgangathi.’ It steadily gained local radio airplay and threw me into the eyes and ears of the unsuspecting public.’

2). While many associated the talented singer’s voice with that of the late South African songbird, Lebo Mathosa, Hellen simply said, “People in Botswana have a tendency of associating good Batswana artists with South Africa. I don’t mean to blow my own horn but I am a good singer. I can sing and I want them to know I’m from right here in Botswana. When you listen to my albums, don’t be mistaken. I sing Setswana House music genre which at first was somewhat reserved for men. I changed that.”
Quizzed as to why she chose the latter, Hellen said everything was made possible after she believed in herself.
‘I told myself that I can also do this kind of music. Besides men are human beings just like me and if they can do it so can I. I simply put my foot down and released my debut album ‘Black Woman’ in 2007. Although I didn’t promote it well enough I’m happy that today people know who Hellen is. I’m happy for what I’ve achieved so far.”

3). The 28-year-old songbird said just recently she released her second album simply dubbed ‘The Story of My Life’ which has 11 banging tracks.
She said by the look of things Batswana are receiving the album well adding that she was able to sell over a 100 copies at the album’s premier recently.
“My albums all have Afro-Pop-House feel to it. It’s Popish with an Afro influence that I like to call Afro-Soul. It is fast but also relaxing. I have always admired a person who comes out with their own style, because, there is a lot of Traditional music groups, a lot of Jazz artists, then there’s Vee and his Kwasa-Kwaito. As an introduction to Botswana’s music scene I wanted to bring a new sound to the Botswana scene and see if it is well received. I’m still in control and it’ll be safe to call me the first Botswana woman of House music.’
Hellen has featured in many of the local DJs and musicians’ projects among them DJ Boogie Sid, Owen, Eugene Jackson and HT just to mention a few.
‘I’m happy that these boys continue to engage me. However I’m careful not to have my voice all over the place lest I become tedious.’

4). The last born in a family of three, Hellen paid tribute to the untimely demise of his elder brother and father who passed away in 2001 and 2003, respectively.
‘I’m only left with my mum and sister now. We were five initially.’
On a lighter note Hellen enjoys Serobe dish and just recently finished reading a book titled ‘Art of Praying Together’ which she had borrowed from her mother’s collection.
‘I also enjoy reading magazines and checking their recipes which I normally try at home. I’m a good cook and I love to cook.’
She said as a way of sharing her musical know-how, she is busy mentoring a girlie group called Purple.
‘Sometimes when I play live I bring them on board to back me. I don’t want to stay long in the music business. I think I will retire after five albums and venture into textile. I’d love to have my own clothing label someday.’
Hellen dislikes who like to assume stuff about other individuals. She also hates dishonest people and her message to Batswana is simply, ‘We’re really trying and I wish everyone could support us. Music is my livelihood. Don’t copy my album. If Batswana support us musicians, we will in turn, keep them entertained,” she said as we concluded the interview.

MULTI TALENTED PEPPER

Moemedi Ramogapi Ramogapi is a multi-skilled Motswana bloke who wants to create op¬portunities for others to thrive.
The 29-year-old Multi-Media Design graduate from the University of Johan¬nesburg, South Africa, is the brains be¬hind a music recording studio dubbed Ruff Riddims based in Palapye.
The man with the octopus’ hands also has his fishing rod focused on prop¬erty and farming.
The former Yarona FM presenter who used to host the radio station’s in¬augural Reggae/Dancehall show dubbed ‘The Reggae Bashment Session’ is a firm subscriber to the ideal that, one should not have all his/her eggs in one basket.
Moses Maruping recently had a chat with him about the many things he does…

Please tell us about yourself?
My birth name is Moemedi Ramogapi Ramogapi. I hold a Mul¬ti Media Design Degree from the Univer¬sity of Johannesburg where I studied for 5 years. I’m currently living in Palapye where I have set up a recording studio which I hope will create opportunities and hits for new artistes in the central of Botswana.

What makes you tick?
I try my best not to get ticked off, but some things like people that can’t tell the truth tick me off. People who argue a lot also tick me off.
I want to be happy so I try all my best to stay happy at all times.

What gets you going everyday?
I want to make a difference in peoples’ lives as well as mine.
Many people want to be successful, wealthy, healthy and happy but, very few want to go through the process.
So the desire to make a difference in peoples lives, in my life and the country gets me going.
I’m motivated by knowing that peo¬ple have become successful by following their dreams even when times where hard and failure was near.

What do you do for a living?
I’m an aspiring entrepre¬neur, currently with fishing rods in entertainment, farming and property.
I currently run a studio called Ruff Riddims, based in Palapye, Middle Inn.
We make music and adverts for radio and TV.
We have just released two albums of our artists namely Skeat Basimanyana Mamela Meropa and Tebza Rocka. These albums are available in Choppies stores countrywide.
We also offer recording services to those wishing to do recording of albums, jingles and adverts.

What else do you do besides spending time in the studio churning out beats?
I’m also involved in a property de¬velopment business, so if I’m not in the studio, I’m busy working on building houses for rent.
I also spend some time at the farm where I’m currently harvesting some maize and if I’m not there, I’m busy work¬ing at Thato’s Nite Club in Palapye.

What are your talents?
The most high (God) has blessed me with a lot of different talents and I’m trying to explore them all, simply because they’re all related to art. I’m able to draw, design, paint and pro¬duce music.

Wow! That’s quite a handful. What’s your idea of an ideal night out?
I hardly go out, but if I were in a re¬lationship, it would have to be a relaxed place where we can chill and get to spend some quality time together.
However, with my friends, I prefer small gatherings in a place were can hear each other.

We’re terrible at knowing when to kiss a girl. What signs should we look out for?
Hhhhhm… Maybe Mr. Lover Man Shabba Ranks would know better.
I think maybe body language will guide you.
You can’t try and kiss a girl if she is standing in Francistown and you are in Ga¬borone. You have to be close so that you can observe if she keeps licking her lips. You will also notice if she is comfortable around you and if so, you could try. I really don’t know, maybe that’s why I’m single at the moment.

What’s your first production mem¬ory?
It was when Bruce Dope Se¬bitlo gave me some tutorials on Reason 2.5 (music production software) to help me get the basics of music and production.
It was a big help because it has helped me learn faster.
I was able to make a House tune similar to the tutorial.
That was when I first realized I was on the right track in as far as music and produc¬tion are concerned.


Is music production lucrative?
I believe that music as a business is lucrative. The problem is that here in Botswana it has always been labeled a time waster as many believe that you need to get a job to be successful. We’re currently invest¬ing our time and money into trying to dis¬cover how lucrative music production really is.
We’re busy negotiating with people that deal with African music for digital distribu¬tion in America to deal with our licensing and digital music distribution online.


If music production didn’t exist, what would you do for a living?
I would probably focus on multi¬media design and setting up different busi¬nesses.
I don’t believe in having all your eggs in one basket or just having one fishing rod. In life, one needs to have more than one in¬come so that if there is a crisis with one, you can still eat from the other income.
My aim is to build a net of businesses to sustain the life and the community.


How much is a good beat these days?
For us to make a full song, mixed and mastered, it will cost just a small P1500.00 which is very cheap looking at the quality you are bound to get for a song. But it gets cheaper with bundle packages, like al¬bums and stuff.


And the most expensive beat?
I have heard of beats that cost over R20 000 from guys in South Af¬rica, for doing a song. That’s the likes of DJ Cleo and Thaso. Right now I really don’t know how much they charge. As for me, I will just continue charging P1500 a beat, which in any way is dead cheap.

Are you into Rastafarism teachings and if so how has the religion influ¬enced your life?
A big no. I’m not a Rastafarian, but there are things that I like about the religion’s way of life especially the fact that they don’t take to war and are a bunch of relaxed people. I just live by many teachings, but I mainly keep positive vibrations about a lot of things.

Have you travelled the world much?
I have lived and studied in Zim¬babwe when the way of life there was the envy of many countries in Africa. That was around 1994 where I spent four years. After that, I then went to University of Johannesburg in South Africa for five years.
During my time there, I was invited to Germany for a design workshop and also in Cape Town to exhibit branding work at the Cape Town Design Indaba.

Tell us about your company, Ruff Riddims?
Ruff Riddims is a small com¬pany with huge plans based in Palapye.
We plan to discover talent in the cen¬tral district from different styles of music. The company is fairly new and has just finished construction of the recording studio in November 2008.
Glenn Stanton through the Design John L Sayers from Australia Forum de¬signed the studio for me.It took 3 months to construct the studio and the results are amazing as this was my first studio build via the Internet.
We also offer design services like de¬veloping a branding language for your company called a Visual language. We have done visual language (Branding) work for Yarona FM, DJ Fresh, Morupule Colliery and other companies.
We mainly offer recording services for jingles, adverts, music albums, as well as mixing and mastering.

Do you ever get stupid SMSes from ladies?
I don’t really give my number to ladies, but if they manage to get it somehow, they usually send me ‘call backs’.

What’s the best job you’ve ever had?
I have only had one job and it was at Yarona FM where I hosted a show called ‘The Reggae Bashment Ses¬sion’ every Sunday evening. It was too nice and I enjoyed it to the core.Right now I’m not crazy about a job simply because I want to create jobs and opportunities for others.I only have one life and I don’t want to spend it working for someone else’s dream.

And what makes you cry?
I can’t remember the time I cried, but it has to be something really sad. Take a death of family mem¬ber for instance or the demise of a serious relationship. Other than that I’m just one happy person who tries to keep a smile even when things are bad.

PERSONAL PROFILE:

FUL NAMES: Moemedi Ramogapi Ramogapi
D.O.B: 19-09-80
P.O.B: Gaborone
HOME VILLAGE: Serowe
HOBBIES: Reading Motivationl and Business Books
FAV MUSIC: Reggae, Dancehall, Motswako, Hip-Hop, and some local sounds.
CURRENTLY READING: Richard Brandson- Business Stripped Bare and Donald Trump- Think Big and Kick A**
CAR DRIVING: Nissan 2.4i Pick UP
DREAM CAR: Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe and Range Rover
MOTTO: Great success always comes at the risk of enormous failure. Winston Churchill
The Harder I work the Luckier I get – Gary Player- Donald Trump
ROLE MODELS: My parents, Richard Branson, Donald Trump, Robert Kiyosaki
HOLIDAY DESTINATION: Kingston, Jamaica

ODIRILE SENTO A.K.A VEE

MUSICIAN & SHREWD BUSINESSMAN

IN THREE WORDS, I AM...
Friendly, creative and persevering.

IF I’M FRIGHTENED
OF ANYTHING, IT’S...
Living against God’s teachings especially, The 10 Commandments.

IF I COULD TRAVEL BACK IN
TIME I’D SET THE DIALS FOR...
25 June 2007, the day my son, Elijah was born.

MY FAVOURITE PERSON
IN THE UNIVERSE IS...
Jesus Christ.

MY LEAST FAVOURITE
PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...
The Devil A.K.A Satan.

THE LAST TIME I LOOKED
IN THE MIRROR I THOUGHT...
You can still make it son.

IF I HAD TO LEAVE A BODY
PART TO SCIENCE, IT WOULD BE...
My brain as I strongly believe the upcoming generation could tap into some of my creative juices and thrive.

MY DEFINITION OF LOVE IS...
An unexplainable and boundless feeling.

THE LAST TIME I VOMITED,
IT WAS BECAUSE...
I was sick during one of my shows in Shoshong. I then went backstage and puked my innards out.

THE GREATEST LESSON
LIFE HAS TAUGHT ME IS...
To live by the Golden rule: Do unto Others as You Would Have Them Do unto You.

IF I KNEW THE WORLD WAS ENDING
TOMORROW, THEN TODAY I’D...
Run as fast as I can to church so as to sort out my place of abode in Jehovah’s house (Heaven).

THE SONG I WANT PLAYED
AT MY FUNERAL IS... “
Sefefo.” It’s a hot song from my new album dubbed “Everybady”.

I WANT MY TOMBSTONE TO READ...
Here lies Odirile “Vee” Sento-The Legend

IN PURELY MONETARY TERMS,
I AM WORTH ROUGHLY...
I’m beyond monetary value.

1). This pint-sized musician needs no introduction.
But for those of you who thrive on ignorance, this is Vee, Botswana’s most loved Kwaito- Kwasa sensation who has been riding the crest of the wave in music circles. Born in May 17, 1983, the Hukuntsi native is also proving to be enjoying success off stage as a father and an astute businessman with his own mineral water and condoms called Ma-vee-ta and La-Vee respectively.
He is also the Chief Executive Officer of his own record company, Black Money Makers (BMM). He revealed that owning his own record label was his first and main dream, before he developed all the other dreams. He explained that he always wanted to feel like he was contributing to the community by at least creating employment. The pint sized star said that Black Money Makers Company has always been there and it was the first label to ever sign him before Ramco Loco and Guffy Creations.
“My first album was released under Black Money Makers before I even moved on to Eric Ramco. The company made me who I am and it was always my dream to grow it into something big,” explained the diminutive Kwaito star-turned record label executive.

2). Sento explained that beating competition is quite difficult because there are a lot of companies that are already established.
He said that one therefore needs to be very strategic to succeed in the industry. “When you are new, you find companies that have already established themselves with very loyal fans, so the best thing for you to do as a new company is to be very strategic in your business endeavors.”
Sento said that business is going strong at the moment and it seems to be getting stronger with time.
“All of our artists have succeeded because the company is concentrating on a few artists. That is a big achievement that I feel very proud of.” Sento hopes to see the company at dazzling international heights.
“I want the company to grow globally and to sign artists from outside the country and to also sign some of our own artists outside Botswana.”

3). In a very rare deal in local circles, cell phone giants, Alcatel and Orange Botswana last year teamed up with Vee to release 2000 units of Vee branded Alcatel cell phones.
The cell phone promotion carries the colours of the rejuvenated Vee, who now goes by a military tag, Lieutenant General Vee.
The cell phone is military green and also has a Vee screen saver, and is loaded with ring tones from Vee’s previous music albums. Perhaps most interesting is the fact that the cell phones, which go for P249, come out with an exclusive Vee CD titled Party Animals.
The CD cannot be bought from any music shop, or heard on any Radio Station because it comes as part of the Vee pack package. Vee said his new six tracks CD is very special.
“They are limited copies, and their availability is tied to the cell phone, which means for my fans to have a taste of the album, they must get the Orange Alcatel phone”, said Vee, who added that the Alcatel cell phone is stuffed with more musical works associated with him.
4). The down-to-earth music star broke into local music circles in 2002 with his debut album dubbed “Lamalanga.”
In 2004, he unleashed a powerful album simply entitled “Kasi Angels” which had the nationally-acclaimed track “Taku-Taku” and since then, the young musician never looked back. After the roaring success of Kasi Angels, Vee in 2005 teamed up with renowned South African producer, Godfrey ‘Guffy’ Pilane and released a distratrous project titled “Ntja Mme.”
The deal which initially seemed lucrative failed dismally and the young man came back home in 2006 and under his own record label, BMM, released an album dubbed “Ditshipi Tsame.” A year later, he released another album titled “Kasiology” before tagging the military salutation to his name in 2008 when he released an album called “Stimela.”
He’s busy polishing his latest album titled “Everybady” which is slated for release soon.
Vee enjoys Macaroni Cheese with Mince Meat.

KHAMA SUES NEWSPAPER

SUNDAY STANDARD AT THE RECEIVING END
By MOSES MARUPING

Two days after the infamous public attack on the private press by two cabinet ministers, President Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama has instituted a legal suit against The Sunday Standard newspaper.
He has instructed his lawyers, Collins and Newman to sue for defamation, following the Sunday Standard story alleging the President may have had a hand in the shooting of a robbery suspect by security agents last week Wednesday.
According to information released Wednesday night, President Khama is suing the private broadsheet in his personal capacity. 

Khama is wounded by the Sunday report alleging that the country’s first citizen was somehow involved in the execution of one John Kalafatis. Going under the headline ‘Suspected criminal who robbed president’s sister shot dead’, the newspaper alleged that the late Kalafatis, who is linked to the armed robbery that took place at a farm owned allegedly by the President’s sister, Jacqueline Khama, was gunned down by military intelligence (MI) after an intensive manhunt. 

Furthermore, the paper alleged that between January and February this year, the deceased was linked to armed robberies that took place at Ruretse Farms, near Oodi Village in Kgatleng District. The newspaper report read; “It is understood that shortly before Jacqueline was attacked and robbed, she had a gathering of friends and family. It is further reported that after the incident, she phoned the president to inform him about the incident. It is said that the president took his motorbike and raced to where the incident had taken place. Later and after a meeting with Khama, the security agents launched a serious manhunt.”
But, according to State House private secretary, Tefo Mokaila, the Sunday Standard allegations were unsubstantiated and have deeply wounded the President. 

“Yes, it’s true the president has instructed his lawyers to sue the paper for defamation. Put yourself in his shoes. How would you have felt? He’s suing in his personal capacity.”

Quizzed as to whether the legal action by Khama against the newspaper would not dent the country’s image, Mokaila said the President just like any other citizen of Botswana is prone to being wounded. 

“He’s hurt and simply taking a bold step about the paper’s speculative allegations.”

Press Secretary to the President, Themba Madisa who seemed startled by our enquiries noted that he had no authority to comment on the matter, as it was personal. 

“I can’t comment. I’m told the President has instructed his personal lawyers to deal with this matter. Make enquiries with Collins and Newman,” said Madisa on Wednesday night.
Sunday Standard attorney, Dick Bayford would not be drawn into discussing the matter, saying he was still awaiting instructions from his client. “I’m still awaiting instructions from my client. I don’t want to say anything which will be contrary to what they will instruct me to do.” 
 

 


BONNIE DINTWA

RADIO PRESENTER

IN THREE WORDS, I AM...

Honest, trustworthy and a sex symbol

IF I’M FRIGHTENED OF ANYTHING, IT’S...

Failure.

IF I COULD TRAVEL BACK IN TIME I’D SET THE DIALS FOR...

June 16, 1995 for personal reasons.

MY FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...

Jesus Christ.

MY LEAST FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...

Haters.

THE LAST TIME I LOOKED IN THE MIRROR I THOUGHT...

I’m fat and I need to do lose weight A.S.A.P.

IF I HAD TO LEAVE A BODY PART TO SCIENCE, IT WOULD BE...

My mouth; it’s the only mouth in the country that says something worth listening.

MY DEFINITION OF LOVE IS...

Honesty, respect and unbridled passion.


THE LAST TIME I VOMITED, IT WAS BECAUSE OF...

When I looked at my bank balance. Ha-ha!



THE GREATEST LESSON LIFE HAS TAUGHT ME IS...

You’re better than you think you are.

IF I KNEW THE WORLD WAS ENDING TOMORROW, THEN TODAY I’D...

I’d live. Everyday is actually the last day.

THE SONG I WANT PLAYED AT MY FUNERAL IS...

Human Nature by Michael Jackson; it’s my favourite song in the entire world.

I WANT MY TOMBSTONE TO READ...

Here lies Bonnie; he loved life and he probably loves death.

IN PURELY MONETARY TERMS, I AM WORTH ROUGHLY...

P26.5 million for the sheer number of phrases I’ve coined in my nine years of radio which mother*&%$#^ keep stealing from me.


NEED-TO-KNOW

1). Born and bred in the mining town of Selibe-Phikwe on March 5 1979, Bonnie Dintwa is a no-nonsense, gifted and eloquent communicator whose voice has been booming across the local FM (Frequency Modulation) spectrum for the past nine years. He first cut his teeth in radio at the government-owned commercial broadcaster; RB2, after giving the then station manager, Mma Gasennelwe a copy of his audition CD. 
"This woman is the best station manager I’ve ever had. She was impressed with my talent and I was hired straight away.” A couple of months whilst on RB2, an opening to try his hand at TV presenting surfaced at BTV where the chubby young man made unexpected visits into our lounges co-hosting the Friday music magazine programme dubbed ‘Flavour Dome’ together with the now Studio 53 presenter, Sithandwa Mmopi. After a year hosting the popular TV show, Bonnie resigned his post and focused his energy on radio; a thing which catapulted him into stardom.
He moved to the private side, and in the last few years he has worked for Yarona FM and Duma FM.

2). Quizzed whether he fancied ever making a come-back to TV, the all-star radio presenter with an ego the size of an elephant said, “I’m 30-years-old and if I ever want to return to TV, it will have to be under the right circumstances. I would want to have a right producer and programmer and ultimately the right pay cheque.’”
He believes that everything at BTV, besides Sedibeng, is crap. “I also believe Sedibeng can even be made into a better programme.”
Careful not to sound as if he was blowing his own trumpet, Bonnie noted that there was nothing in respect to radio that he cannot do. “I remember when I first joined Yarona FM to get into Robin Chivazve’s overinflated boots, many doubting Thomases said I would not last a week but I proved them wrong. The same thing happened when I took over from the legend; Otis Fraser at RB2. I’m happy that I kicked some a@# and proved my hecklers wrong. All these scenarios were a great experience for me.”

3). Asked to explain his controversial move to Duma FM from Yarona FM last year, Bonnie said he joined his current employer because he had matured more than the youth-oriented radio station. “I took a break from radio for two months and went on vacation with my girlfriend. I wanted to clear my head and come back as a newer person thirsty to learn again. I had reached a point of maturity and that’s one of the primary reasons why I left Yarona FM.”
Bonnie took a scornful swipe at some of his colleagues stating that most of the local presenters think radio is primarily about them. 
”Our presenters need to learn one thing; radio isn’t about them. It’s about the listener. I’m afraid there is a certain group of people who in their own little confused world think radio is all about them. This is bull&^%. You don’t broadcast for yourself. Everything you do should all be about the listener.:
Is there was any beef (hatred) between local presenters? Yes, says Bonnie, adding that the beef is so thick it can be cut with a large steak knife.
 “Radio stations don’t have a problem with each other but presenters working for these mediums go about hating each other. Why, it beats me. I always say we have to be a community and love each other. We can’t afford to beef.”

4). On his greatest highlights as an entertainer, Bonnie mentioned his days when he co-hosted BTV’s Flavour Dome with Sithandwa Mmopi and another great moment when the two shared the stage co-Mciing Miss Botswana.
 He spoke highly of DJ O’Neal (Zibanani Madumo) whom he considers a friend and a brother adding that the great thing about their union is that the two want the same things in life. 
”We have the same focus. He’s like a brother to me.”
On a lighter note, Bonnie enjoys a stir-fry dish cooked by his lovely girlfriend and spinach-wrapped chicken courtesy of her mom. He’s currently reading a book titled Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell.
 His message to Batswana is listed on point form: a). Why is Shaggy here? b). Why do we live in a country where we’re so self-destructive that government has to take such drastic measures to save us from ourselves? c). Can employers please pay their employees what they’re worth; starting with Rudeboy Necta?

SHAGGY-ING IT OUT

He arrived on our shores on a sunny and balmy Tuesday afternoon and the Jamaican-American Reggae superstar, Orville Richard Burrell better known by his stage name “Shaggy” has promised to put together a stimulating show for the Botswana masses, especially the womenfolk.
The man who headlines the ‘Urban Legends’ music spectacular on Thursday organized by Orange and WesSide Entertainment, and supported by The Voice and Yarona FM is a Grammy-nominated Reggae/Dancehall singer who takes his nickname from Scooby-Doo’s companion- a nickname given to him by his friends because his name bore a similarity to the Scooby-Doo character.
Rudeboy Necta attended the Reggae troubadour’s press conference at Gaborone Sun on Wednesday afternoon, where Burrell stated that the name Shaggy is a reference to his then hairstyle.
The man, who is especially notable for his distinctive sub-baritone voice said he was deeply honoured to be in Botswana, adding that the country is without a doubt Africa’s best kept secret.
‘Being my first time here, I’m deeply grateful to be in such a peaceful and tranquil place. I’ve been to many places in Africa and this is by far my favourite. What I’ve seen so far reminds me of Jamaica,’ said Shaggy to a roaring applause of the local scribes.
The bachelor Reggae megastar, who has fathered three kids with two different women said in an exclusive interview that he was into music not because of luck, but simply because he was good at it.
He acknowledged his time in the military- saying the latter prepared him to be good in what he’s currently doing (music).
Asked to explain what he meant when he said he was going to simulate as many women in Botswana as possible, Shaggy said, when he does music, he caters only for the ladies.
‘My music speaks to women. I would appreciate it if women could sit in the forefront at my show simply because they’re sexy. I don’t want any man shaking my hand. Women are the perfect things ever made by God. I’m happy to say that Botswana women although curvaceous, are very beautiful. The type we Jamaican men prefer.’
Quizzed whether he fancied doing a collaboration with any of the local acts, Shaggy said he had no objections whatsoever.
‘I never collaborate with big acts. The only big collaboration I’ve done was with Janet Jackson. I normally like to work with talented and unknown acts. I’m up for it and I will just be waiting for anyone with a great idea to approach me.’
On a lighter note, Shaggy enjoys any dish with fish and noted that he drives a Bentley GT convertible (his favourite among other cars).
As a parting shot, Shaggy said he will only retire from music when he reaches a point of boredom.
His HIV/AIDS message reads: practice safe sex all the time.

FOLKLORE REVIVALIST

Ntirelang Berman has been a consistent force in Botswana’s folklore music and has in the past taken this music globally as shown by his invitations to perform in Germany, China, Japan and Canada , just to mention a few. Berman was also part of the My African Dream Talent Search in its formative years. A couple of years ago, the young man released a key folklore album (Maloba) that won Best Folklore award at the second Botswana Music Union (BOMU) Awards.
He’s a hard-core traditionalist whose aim is to revive the waning traditional music and the culture associated with it.
Born 28 years ago, the Ramotswa musician is undisputedly one of the leading traditional musicians this country has ever produced.
He describes the music that he sings as 'classical Tswana poetry’.
The young man is a rare gem.
He is so much endowed with musical talent and his angelic voice aside; he can play different guitar strings.
He can play the four-string guitar made famous by Stampore, five and six Balete string and the standard string.
As if that is not enough, Berman can play both segaba and stinkane.
Voice Entertainment Editor, MOSES MARUPING during the week caught up with the immensely talented Berman to find out the many things which motivates him to wake up everyday…

I’m extremely proud to be in the company of greatness. Could you please tell us about yourself?
Thanks for the great opportunity. My names are Ntirelang Berman and I come from Goo-Rra Dimpe Ward in Ramotswa. I was born on March 7 1981.
I grew up in Ramotswa where I started my primary schooling at St. Condrad’s Mission School before going to Ramotswa Community Junior Secondary School (C.J.S.S) and finally Kagiso Senior Secondary School. I’m a performance artist with a strong incline towards traditional music.

How did all this come about?
I started taking interest in performance arts since my seminal years at primary school. I did mostly Setswana poetry where one gentleman by the name of Seabenyana Rasefako wrote me several poetry pieces to stage. When I was doing Standard Six I took it upon myself to write my own poems and during the same time I took interest in traditional dance as well as drama. During junior secondary level I continued in my strive and in 1998 joined a group called Barwa Kgodumo ya Leselesele which was basically formed to keep out-of-school-youth away from the ills of society. Truth be told, this was one of the first ever groups locally to fuse traditional music with instrumentals such as guitars and drums. It was during this time when I thought of an idea to enhance my poetry by simply starting to play marimba and percussions.

So what happened next?
I wasn’t happy as I got to realize that my poetry seemed to be swallowed by melody and rhythm. I tried my hand at segaba, stinkane and acoustic guitar. After several months of playing the acoustic guitar to add a bit of flavor to my poetry I fell in love with the effect and focused my energy in perfecting my skills.

People of your age seem to focus their musical interests in doing Hip-Hop, Kwaito and House music genres. Don’t you feel kinda old doing folklore music which is sometimes associated with the older generation?
Most of my peers often ask me why I chose to follow this path and I simply tell them that it is the coolest thing to preserve and revive our cultural norms and customs through music. Doing folklore music is the best thing for me and it’s the only thing you can do without falling into the quagmire of feeling like a copycat. I can never sing out of tune no matter what time of the day I’m asked to perform it. It’s not something I’m moulding but offering.

Can you tell me about some of your career highlights?
My career has been great. Ever since 2004 I’ve been traveling in and out of the country. I was part of the My African Dream Talent Search in its formative years and I was thrilled in 2005 when I went to the Grahamstown Arts Festival in South Africa as a background musician unto two plays dubbed ‘Sephiri se dule’ and ‘My brother’s bones’. I was also invited to Germany in 2006 by the country’s statesman arts concert. The German president had visited Botswana and we happened to perform at a dinner hosted in his honour. I think he was impressed with our performances such that when he went back to his country he invited us. I was with Joseph Dikgomo and Myzer Matlhaku. In 2007 I was part of the Botswana entourage which went to China with a group called Barwa Kgodumo, Skazzo and P-Mag. It was something called Botswana Week in Beijing. As if that was not enough I happened to go to Japan for something called "Tokyo International Conference on African Development"(TICAD). It was launched in 1993 to promote high-level policy dialogue between African leaders and development partners. It has since evolved into a major global framework to facilitate the implementation of initiatives for promoting African development under the dual principle of African "ownership" and international "partnership". A central feature of this framework is the cooperation between Asia and Africa. I went there with a local folklore group called Phate ya setso. However among all these travels I consider last year (2008) to being my greatest year as I attended First Voices in Canada. It is simply a platform for Canada Aborigines to meet with other indigenous groups from across the globe and share skills. I was accompanied by one Keletlhokile Sedumao of D’Kar and Captain Dira.

Wow! You just made me turn green with envy. Looking at your achievements, do you have any word of advice to the youth?
All I can say is that now is the time for every Motswana whether old or young to search deep within themselves and be proud of their culture. If we know our past then we will definitely know our future and move forward. If you look at other countries such as Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa; their music is deeply rooted into their past. It is only when we do this that people from other countries will respect us and pay attention to what we do.

As a cultural ambassador how do you carry yourself?
I live a very simple life. I’m only a different person when I’m on stage but the moment I get off I’m like you. Humble and respectful. I know people appreciate me because of my work and I live a very principled life.

Enough about your work. Are you romantically involved?
Yes, I’m taken but I wouldn’t want to discuss details of my relationship.

Fair enough! What qualities do you look for in a woman?
It’s not only about my woman but I also want my friends or the people I hang around with to be truthful and trustworthy. I want them to accept me as I am and not what the expect me to become. I know as the so-called celebrities people often dictate how we live our lives but I detest that.

What do you like about Botswana?
I’m just happy that peace and unity continues to prevail in our land.
What do you hate the most about the same?
Most of Batswana are indolent and rely too much on the government. This mentality has to change.

PERSONAL PROFILE

FULL NAMES: Ntirelang Shima Berman

D.O.B: 7 March 1981
P.O.B: Ramotswa
HOME VILLAGE: Ramotswa
FAV FOOD: Bread in any form with coffee
HOBBIES: I don’t have any
DREAM CAR: I don’t dream cars and I would accept anything God throws my way
HOLIDAY DESTINATION: Germany; it’s a very nice place
ROLE MODEL: I’m self-inspired
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS: Form II certificate. I dropped out of my Form V during second term and didn’t sit for my final examinations. I absconded as I was an intimidation to most of my teachers and they hated me.
FAMILY: I’m the eldest now, cos I lost my older sister when I was young. I have two younger brothers namely; Obakeng Moshingo and Boemo Mosoba Berman.

MICHAEAL “DIGNASH” MORAPEDI

RADIO PRESENTER & COMEDIAN

IN THREE WORDS, I AM....
Funny, witty and a shrewd businessman.

IF I’M FRIGHTENED OF ANYTHING, IT’S...
Failure.

IF I COULD TRAVEL BACK IN TIME I’D SET THE DIALS FOR...
1981- to revisit one teacher of mine who told me I’d never amount to anything.

MY FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...
My mother, Bridgette. She raised me from a boy to a man single-handedly.

MY LEAST FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS....
Robert Gabriel Mugabe. How can one man hold an entire country to ransom?

THE LAST TIME I LOOKED IN THE MIRROR I THOUGHT...
Damn! That’s a million bucks right there.

IF I HAD TO LEAVE A BODY PART TO SCIENCE, IT WOULD BE...
My brains because I don’t come in dozens. Surely God must have taken His time making this cat. Ha-ha!

MY DEFINITION OF LOVE IS...
The innocence of children. It’s unconditional and very pure.

THE LAST TIME I VOMITED, IT WAS BECAUSE...
Hennessey was in the system baba! Ha-ha!

THE GREATEST LESSON LIFE HAS TAUGHT ME IS...
Perceptions are very deceptive.

IF I KNEW THE WORLD WAS ENDING TOMORROW, THEN TODAY I’D...
I’ll get buck-wild, cash all my money and throw a big party and just probably invite Robert Mugabe so I call tell him to his face, “See you in hell,” because that’s probably where we’re going.

THE SONG I WANT PLAYED AT MY FUNERAL IS...
“Picture me Rolling” by Tupac Shakur.

I WANT MY TOMBSTONE TO READ...
Here lies “The Boss.”

IN PURELY MONETARY TERMS, I AM WORTH ROUGHLY...
Guys like me are rare gems.

NEED-TO-KNOW
1). Made in Francistown, grown in Gaborone.
41-year-old Michael Morapedi is very much a product of Botswana.
He’s funny, full of charisma and arguably the best homegrown radio presenter to grace the local airways.
Added to that he is also a slapstick comedian of repute.
Popularly known as Dignash to his legion of fans, the proud father of a two-year-old Malaika, is the man behind the mike on Duma FM’s afternoon drive-time show, “Dignash Live.”
His distinctive style is unique, unpredictable, whacky, hectic, but always easy on the ears.
As his comic career continues on its meteoric rise, he uses humour to break down barriers across the social divide.
If laughter is a medicine, then Dignash has the tonic to make you feel good.

2). Dignash also known as ‘The Boss,’ has a natural talent for showmanship, which may explain why he originally wanted to be a lawyer.
A change of heart however saw him forsake the law for the world of radio, and he joined RB2 in 1992 at the age of 25.
His eloquent tones have since been heard across the whole spectrum of local radio with subsequent spells at Gabz FM, Yarona FM and now Duma FM.
His highlights include last year when he had an opportunity to co-broadcast a show with heavyweights Chris Motshabi and Cebo Manyaapelo from South Africa’s popular radio station, Motsweding FM.
As a funny man, Dignash has performed alongside other comedians from South Africa such as Kagiso Lediga and David Kau and has produced two CDs - “Now We’re Talking Volume One and Now We’re Talking Volume Two”.
Currently, he’s trying to put together a comedy-related TV show, as well as plans to launch an international clothing label amongst other bright ideas he has lined up.

3). His burning ambition is to see his name up in the glittering lights of Broadway and stage a show in New York, and then make it big in Hollywood.
In the meantime as he reaches for the stars, he is just happy in his natural habitat with a generous helping of the famous “Mokwetjepe” dish, making his ‘homeboys’ happy.

TSHEPO NTSHOLE

RADIO PRESENTER & BUSINESSWOMAN

IN THREE WORDS, I AM...
Happy, complicated and eternal optimist.

IF I’M FRIGHTENED OF ANYTHING, IT’S...
Snakes and creepy crawlies.

IF I COULD TRAVEL BACK IN TIME I’D SET THE DIALS FOR...
I live for the present.

MY FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...
Myself.

MY LEAST FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...
People who don’t want to see others happy.

THE LAST TIME I LOOKED IN THE MIRROR I THOUGHT...
Wow!

IF I HAD TO LEAVE A BODY PART TO SCIENCE, IT WOULD BE...
My muffin-tops (boobs)-they’re out of this world.

MY DEFINITION OF LOVE IS...
I’m still trying to figure it out, but I believe it’s a combination of friendship, compromise, patience and laughter.

THE LAST TIME I VOMITED, IT WAS BECAUSE OF...
Food poisoning.

THE GREATEST LESSON LIFE HAS TAUGHT ME IS...
A bad situation is never permanent.

IF I KNEW THE WORLD WAS ENDING TOMORROW, THEN TODAY I’D...
Say I’m sorry.

THE SONG I WANT PLAYED AT MY FUNERAL IS...
Heaven Scent by Keyshia Cole.

I WANT MY TOMBSTONE TO READ...
Here lies a woman, a friend who loved, lived and laughed.

IN PURELY MONETARY TERMS, I AM WORTH ROUGHLY...
Let’s talk in the next year.

NEED-TO-KNOW
1). Born in March 9, 1980 in Gaborone, Tshepo Ntshole is an exceptional radio presenter whose mesmerizing voice can be heard reigning supreme in the Gabz FM 96.2 frequency modulation (FM) spectrum. The ever-smiling beauty from Mochudi with a charming heart first cut her teeth in radio in 1999 when government liberalized the airwaves and allowed for private owned radio stations.
Tshepo who has always fancied an opportunity as a radio presenter tried her luck and auditioned at the newly opened Gabz FM and she was hired straight away.
A couple of years later, she made a move to Yarona FM in 2002 where she stamped her authoritative mark in the local airwaves, giving seasoned male presenters a run for their dough.
After a couple of years soothing the youthful Yarona FM listeners, in October 2007, Tshepo hit a U-turn to rejoin her former employer, Gabz FM where she now hosts the radio station’s mid-afternoon slot on a show simply dubbed “Great Expectations” which beams weekdays from 1000-1400hrs.

2). The 29-year-old radio personality who enjoys laughter to the core noted that people should learn to afford to crack a smile even in the face of adversity.
“I’m one person who enjoys laughter and I just wish everyone could realize that laughter is a good medicine. It can make the world a beautiful place.”
The last born in a family of five said she enjoys any Potato dish be it French fries or baked potatoes.
Quizzed about some of her career highlights, Tshepo said everyday in her life is a highlight as it different.
“I really don’t have a special moment. Each day has its own surprises and I always look forward to rocking listeners with my smooth velvet voice. I know radio like the back of my hand and my aim is to inform, educate and entertain. However, I always enjoy interviewing international artistes.”
3). Besides her radio job, Tshepo owns an Events Management and Logistics company called Sixpence which basically does event planning and management. She wants to expand into information and lifestyle management. The talented radio presenter is also a seasoned MC. She revealed that in a few months she plans to study Business Administration to further her career and that things might get a bit hectic for her as she will be juggling three things (radio, school, and company) at a go.
“However, I’m not complaining since I believe as human beings we ought to keep ourselves busy with something in life. I enjoy what I do and I will never trade it for anything in life.”

THATO ‘SCAR’ MATLHABAPHIRI

HIP-HOP ARTIST AND RADIO PRESENTER

IN THREE WORDS, I AM...
Loud, observant and spontaneous.

IF I’M FRIGHTENED OF ANYTHING, IT’S...
Losing my mother. She’s my pillar of strength.

IF I COULD TRAVEL BACK IN TIME I’D SET THE DIALS FOR...
The day the Deputy Dean told me I was good at Mathematics so I should pursue Statistics at varsity. I would have given him the middle finger.

MY FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...
It’s my girlfriend, Nicole.

MY LEAST FAVOURITE PERSON IN THE UNIVERSE IS...
Arsene Wenger, the guy has me looking like a fool whenever I watch soccer with my friends. Arsenal is failing dismally.

THE LAST TIME I LOOKED IN THE MIRROR I THOUGHT...
So much to do, so little time. Go and do it.

IF I HAD TO LEAVE A BODY PART TO SCIENCE, IT WOULD BE...
My huge a$#. It’s the cause of attention among girls and unfortunately guys. Ha-ha!

MY DEFINITION OF LOVE IS...
Something you have to do completely otherwise you won’t fully understand and appreciate it.

THE LAST TIME I VOMITED, IT WAS BECAUSE...
I had nine Tequilas, one flaming Lamborghini, six double J&B and appletizers and on the way home I had a Windhoek beer.

THE GREATEST LESSON LIFE HAS TAUGHT ME IS...
Humble yourself and you’ll be exalted and exalt yourself and you’ll be humbled. Simple.

IF I KNEW THE WORLD WAS ENDING TOMORROW, THEN TODAY I’D...
Cash all my accounts, get on a plane and look for Kim Kardashian…Ha-ha! Ok, I’d probably make sure I’m with my family and closets friends.


THE SONG I WANT PLAYED AT MY FUNERAL IS...
My People by myself.

I WANT MY TOMBSTONE TO READ...
I didn’t want to go out this way!!

IN PURELY MONETARY TERMS, I AM WORTH ROUGHLY...
US$787 million, the USA stimulus plan baby!

NEED-TO-KNOW
1). He’s not only a talented lyricist but he also possesses a good sense of business acumen. This is none other than Thato Matlhabaphiri popularly known to the masses as Scar
.The versatile Hip Hop MC is also the brains behind the popular clothing label simply termed P.O.D.I, an acronym which simply translates into People of Different Identities-a fitting name if you consider the numerous tribes which make up our peaceful country.
Being one of Botswana’s few lyrically-gifted MCs whose knack for unleashing a powerful rendition on stage is unparalleled to none; Scar has been nominated for two categories in the Channel O Spirit of Africa Music Video Awards.
The young man first broke into the local dog-eat-dog music industry in 2001 and trod where the angels feared by becoming one of the first few individuals to release a Hip Hop offering.
In 2006, Scar resurfaced again and unleashed a very powerful album simply entitled ‘Happy Hour.’

2). Released both under Breakthrough and Ramco Loco Records the super slamming album since its release dominated both local and international airwaves, making it a first for a local Hip Hop album to garner such an immense following.
He is credited among other things to take to the stage alone without any female or male dancer gyrating or twirling alongside him and still be able to tame and soothe the masses making them melt under his hypnotizing musical spell.
The album which was crafted with the help of the country’s versatile producers, Eric Ramogobya and Earth both of Ramco Loco Records and among other artistes the talented lyricist features Kast, Third Mind, Michelle and Eskimos.
The 21-track album also features Shoes of Machesa fame.
As clear testimony that his star continues to shine even beyond our borders, the versatile MC once brought the roof down when he performed at the Big Brother Africa II eviction party held in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The show which had more than one million views across the African continent without a doubt thrust our gifted lass from the dusty village of Molepolole into the dizzy pinnacle of fame and this undoubtedly gave him the coveted and much needed advantage at the Channel O Spirit of Africa Music Awards.

3). His album, Happy Hour which seemed to be the rapper’s personal lamentations towards society was an instant hit.
In one of the songs, Thibela, which still remains my favourite to date, Scar spoke of the troubles many young musicians face with unscrupulous music executives whom he said were out 'to suck blood' out of the unsuspecting industry debutants, when he rapped;
‘Record label executives
Suits and ties
Thinking I am a clueless guy
Ka ke ikwalela maboko
While I am toothless and shy
@$s kisser like most of these cats in tight jeans
ba ba tswewang ke phefo’
Scar could be regarded to be a Hip-Hop artiste with a much tighter grasp of Setswana and its little nuances.
He has opened for Dead Prez (U.S), Blak Twang (U.K), Hip Hop Pantsula (S.A.), Skwatta Kamp (S.A), Malaika (S.A) and Mafikizolo (S.A). He has also launched a clothing label (PODI-People Of Different Identities) and many were exposed to the young man’s many talents when he was chosen to be one of the three M-Net Africa Idols judges, a music reality show that scouted for talent in Southern Africa. Currently, Scar together with Tumi Ramsden co-host the coveted Yarona FM Breakfast show dubbed ‘The Real Enchilada’.

4). Scar explained that in order to make it for the studio in time, he wakes up at 0400hrs every single day. He enjoys Beef Chow mein with soya sauce.
The versatile rapper hopes to walk down the aisle when he is 28 and said he is also a certified plasterer and tile layer. He dropped out of varsity in 2008 (3rd year) to focus his energy in doing the coveted Idols Africa. Asked to explain this, Scar simply said, ‘Thuto ga e golelwe loosely translated ‘you are never too old to learn.’

LIVING FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC

Arguably the most talented guitarist
of his generation, Clement
Jackson is still to launch himself
on the great majority of the unsuspecting
public in his home country.
For a man who has played on the
world stage with legendary guitarist and
rock megastar Eric Clapton, as well as
Shabba Ranks, UB40, Maxi Priest and Oliver
Mtukudzi, the outspoken local muso
deserves to be up there amongst the greats
in the Botswana hall of artistic fame.
His musical adventure began in the
70’s whilst at Mater Spei College. There
he met up with Masilonyana Radinoga
and Louis Mhlanga to form the college
band, Black Serpents. In a career
that has since taken him from the back
streets of Francistown to the golden
gates of San Francisco and beyond, Jackson
has a whole load of stories to tell.
To find out what makes the forty-something
musical pioneer rock, Moses Maruping
recently had a chat with the legend as
he worked on his solo album.

It’s an honour to be in the presence
of greatness. Could you briefly tell
me about yourself?
The pleasure is all mine. I was born
four decades ago in Francistown, but I’m
a descendant of the Ndebele from Borolong
in the north. Given my music career,
I’m known as something of an outgoing
character who makes friends easily.


What’s your claim to fame?
Ha-ha! I really wish I were
famous. Let me just say I’m a seasoned
guitarist who plays a couple of instruments,
among them the alto sax. I’ve
been playing the guitar for the past three
decades. I started playing with the likes
of Ndingo Johwa, Masilonyana Radinoga
and Louis Mhlanga during the mid 70’s.
Then in the mid-80’s, together with the
late Duncan Senyatso, I formed a group
called Kgwenyape and released an album
dubbed “Mephato ya Maloba”. I was the
lead guitarist of this band while Duncan
Senyatso was the lead vocalist. We earned
a certain amount of fame, if not fortune,
when we travelled to Zimbabwe after Duncan
wrote the admired ‘SADC Song,’ and
we shared the stage with renowned singers
Oliver Mtukudzi and Jabu Khanyile.
I’m not blowing my own trumpet, but
our group did steal the show. Ha-ha!
I also stayed in Cape Town for three
years where I had a stint doing gigs at
places such as Inyanga and Gugulethu.
Ah - those were the days my friend.

Tell me about your highlights in
the music industry.
I vividly remember the 80’s
when I had the opportunity to share the
stage with superstars such as UB40, 3rd
World, Maxi Priest, Shabba Ranks and
Mahlathini. However, the highlight was
when we played with the greatest of them
all, the legendary Eric Clapton.
As a guitarist, my entire musical
career went through a huge transformation.
Playing alongside the greatest was
a breakthrough for me. He was the main
man, the guy who inspired me into taking
up the guitar, and I would spend time rehearsing
his songs note for note. When he
came here, I had the opportunity to play
one of his songs called “Crossroads,” and
he was bowled over.
He said to me, “How can you play
my song better than I do?” He just didn’t
expect to find that kind of touch in our region.
All I said to him was that I was passionate
about music and we exchanged
contacts. We kept in touch for some time,
and then out of the blue, he wired me
some money to buy a guitar, exactly like
his. It was a Fender Stratocaster, and it’s
every guitarist’s dream to get their hands
on one. It’s to guitars what a Lamborghini
is to cars. Apart from Clapton, it’s what
guitar greats such as Jimi Hendrix, Richie
Sambora, Mark Knopfler and John Lennon
played.

With such experience, what role
have you played in unearthing
and nurturing young talent locally?
I was supposed to release my
own solo album next month, but I decided to put it on hold so we could
release my son, Eugene’s album.
I have brought on the likes of Helen, Eugene,
Bonnie Fisher and Nono. As testimony to
the fact that they truly respect and recognize
what I have done for their careers, during
my last birthday celebration, the young musicians
raised funds and bought me a guitar.
I was overwhelmed with joy.
What are the challenges you have
faced in the local music industry?
In our time, we didn’t have anyone
locally to model ourselves on, musically,
so we resorted to playing songs
of already established foreign artistes.
I remember after Kgwenyape released the
Mephato ya Maloba album and we took it to
Radio Botswana, one well known announcer,
who shall remain nameless, said e bosula
(it’s boring). That was the greatest challenge
of them all.
I’m happy that today young musicians
have many more opportunities than we ever
did. In our time, for example, when working
with the late Duncan, although it was so
rewarding artistically, and we had enough
songs to carry us through five albums, since
we didn’t have a recording deal we ended
up losing some of the songs. We kept going
because of our love for music, but financially
we were playing for survival.

What’s your take on musicians who
lip-synch?
It is very regrettable. As a musician,
I believe that you need to be able to play at least one instrument. I do believe that
playing in a live band is unbelievably rewarding,
but also expensive. Take for instance my
treasured guitar - you need to pay around
R28 000 for it at the current market prices.
I always tell young musicians that music is
a slippery slope and one needs to tread carefully
if they want to make it as fully-fledged
musicians. It’s wisest to go to school first so
that you have something to fall back on.

Do you also take offence to being
called Rasekanta as many of our
people call musicians?
Ha-ha! I do believe that mindset is slowly
changing, although some people are still
dismissive of musicians. My advice is simpe,
when you do music locally, make sure
there’s something else you do as well, so that
when things get tough, you can still survive.
I believe the word Rasekanta/Masekanta was
a word coined by South Africans for their
musicians. I just want musicians to be able to
plan and save for the future.
We don’t want anyone dying a pauper
and failing to afford his/her own burial.
I guess BOMU is working at establishing
schemes for musicians in the form of funeral
packages. I believe the new president, Socca
Moruakgomo is into the idea of turning the
union around by insuring musicians.

Do you think jealousy exists in our
local music industry and if so
what’s your take on it?
I think it does exist and I hate it badly.
As musicians, we need to be able to
think with our hearts and avoid petty talk. It’s unbefitting and unprofessional.
What else do you do besides
music?
Professionally I’m a qualified
locomotive driver. I was amongst the
first eight people who qualified as train
drivers in 1978. I drove the train for almost
15 years; a job I did even when I was
playing in the Kgwanyape band. Some
of my routes took me as far as Malawi,
Mozambique and Rhodesia. I’m able to
speak fluent Afrikaans, a language that
I acquired during my tenure as a train
driver. One vivid memory I have about
my time as a train driver was during
the apartheid era when a certain white
train driver, who was taking over after
me, grabbed a piece of cloth and wiped
the controls clean, informing me that he
was wiping off my black skin. I was not
amused and I warned him never to repeat
that or else his white face would meet the
skin on my black fist.

Are you married?
I’ve always had cold feet
when it comes to marriage, as I
was scared of getting divorced. Right
now, 99% of all my friends who were
married have divorced and I don’t want
to go through the same trauma. However,
there is a lady I’ve been staying with who
has been very loving and supportive, so
who knows?

What plans do you have for the
future?
I’m very passionate about
music and all I do is accumulate as much
sound equipment as I can. In the future,
I want to be able to supply sound equipment.
Right now I’ve been working on my
home studio and I can tell you it’s coming
up fine. I’m also passionate about alto sax
and I’m perfecting my skills everyday.

Have you had any embarrassing
moment?
I’ve developed balls of steel
and I always take things as they come.
My aim is to triumph over adversity.
Have you a political statement to
make about local music.
Our government continues
to be insensitive towards us musicians.
We want to be allowed to play our music
until the wee hours of the morning. The
amended liquor laws are a pain in our careers.
The association of music and alcohol
is extremely unfortunate and we wish
government had other measures to curtail
excessive alcohol drinking. The new laws
are jeopardizing our existence.

Can you form an honest opinion
about President Ian Khama?
I guess some of his rulings
need some relaxing. However, I do believe
he is a great statesman who is trying
very hard to get the country somewhere,
but I also believe his military background
could be compromising his good side.
Do you have any last words?
The youth must seriously focus
on their education.

PERSONAL PROFILE
FULL NAMES: Clement Njabulo
Jackson
D.O.B: 11 October 19**
P.O.B: Francistown
HOME VILLAGE: Borolong
KIDS: Two sons; Eugene and
Rumbee
FAV FOOD: Pap and Steak on any
given day
FAV DRINK: Glass of wine when
time allows, strictly on weekends
FAV SINGER (voice): Paul McCartney
and Stevie Wonder
FAV MUSICIANS: Frank Zappa and
John McLaughlin
DREAM CAR: BMW X5
MENTOR: My late mum; Elizabeth
Jackson
FAV PAST-TIME: Blowing my alto
saxophone and working on my home
studio

THE FRESH PRINCE OF THE AIRWAVES

Quote for page one: ‘We live in a world where many thrive on taking advantage of others and it’s high time we put our foot down in whatever causes we believe in.’
A short memory back, Prince was an unknown dude about town, whose only claim to fame was partying (dancing from sunrise till sunset) down a storm in many of Gaborone’s various clubs. Fast-forward to 2009, Prince who in the past got many doors shut on his face after trying his luck in many of the local radio stations, now commands respect by co-hosting RB2’s coveted morning show dubbed ‘Rise and Shine Re-Loaded’ with Tebogo Ragontse.
 MOSES MARUPING recently hooked up with the heavy and croaky-voiced radio presenter who is slowly carving himself a golden niche to find out what makes him tick.
You host the most coveted show in the country, tell me about it…
I’m thrilled and I count my blessings everyday.
 Only if people knew the difficult road I’ve travelled to be where I’m at today they’ll realize that nothing in life is impossible.
 If you put your mind to whatever you want to do then for sure you’ll achieve it. This show continues to enrich my brain as I deal with current affairs on a daily basis. 
The show is a mixture of the fast-paced, what’s hot now and we fuse it with the latest trends, be it in music or fashion.
How much preparation goes into this show?
 Dude! A lot really if you consider the fact that I wake up at 0400hrs every morning. As soon as I get up from bed I freshen up before I switch on the radio and TV to get a grasp of what’s going on around the world.
 I get to the studio at exactly 0500hrs and I meet up with the other morning team to discuss all the things lined up for the day.
 It could be revising the questions for the proposed morning interview or simply getting in tune with our producer.
What makes you tick?
 Music, without a doubt, makes me tick.
 I also get thrilled by current affairs. 
But most importantly I get elated when I discuss things in my show which are life altering.
 It also gives me great pleasure whenever I get stopped by a random person on the street saying they appreciate what I do. 
It makes me feel like a mini-God.
I see! So tell me, the celebrity-spotting trend, does it happen a lot?
 Of late yes. It humbles me whenever I’m walking just about town doing my thing when somebody stops me and says, wait I know that voice. Aren’t you so and so? It is the very same thing, which makes me acknowledge and appreciate the power of radio. It makes me super-special and I’m humbled that it has started to occur when I’m hosting a programme with a purpose. Mind you, I’ve only been on radio officially for six months and I’ve gone from hosting the graveyard shift to the after-hours drive and ultimately prime time radio (breakfast show). I’m happy that I have achieved a lot so fast.
Do you often get mysterious phone calls from anonymous women wanting to hit it off with you?
 Ha-ha! Yes, that has also been happening a lot. However I’m not big on taking women’s phone numbers or calls. I’m always not tempted to take these calls but whenever I do pick them up I put them off nicely. I don’t want these callers getting off the phone feeling less of women. I’m not the demeaning or degrading type.
Have you had any embarrassing moments so far?
 Not really but once in a while I do go through the usual ‘choking over words’ trend especially when I’m addressing pressing issues. I’m just happy that the errors I do make are quite minimal and the fact that the RB2 crowd seems to be quite mature in digesting the many issues, which we discuss in our show.
Many people often argue that for one to make a break into radio s/he does not need a college Degree. Your comment…
I always say it’s very important for someone to have something to fall back on whenever things take a nastier turn and what a better way to do it than having the highest academic achievement.
 However, when it comes to radio I believe all you need is your God-given talent and the cocky attitude.
 It is the one field where one does not need a college degree to break through. You need to be able to break down doors without a key.
 You also need to be very persevering.
 Mind you when I told myself I wanted to become a radio presenter, I job-shadowed on Obza’s show for three and a half years without a pay.
 Although it was a bit frustrating I do believe it ultimately paid off and I would encourage young people to do that.
What are the top five things which makes one a good radio presenter?
 Firstly you need to be a good listener, be good on delivery, be confident, have a bit of arrogance and interact a lot so you can very much know what people(listeners) want. The arrogance will always come in handy when you need to stick to your ground. As a radio presenter you are simply a medium of information and you need to be able to stick to your line hence the arrogance.
Don’t you think this ‘arrogance’ will ultimately make you bigheaded?
 Not with me as I was raised in a Christian-inclined background. My mother always told me that although I may be important the next person is more important than I am. Arrogance should only be used as a defence mechanism, say whenever provoked or under attack. We live in a world where many thrive on taking advantage of others and it’s high time we put our foot down in whatever causes we believe in.
Well said mister! So what interests you about Botswana?
 The people in this country are very special especially after you’ve travelled to South Africa. You’ll realize the humbleness Batswana possess.
Is there anything you hate about our country?
 People who always want to take advantage of others. I hate everybody who manipulates others for his/her own benefit. I also hate the fact that most of our people don’t realize their potential. We should stop borrowing trends and cultures from other countries but instead pride ourselves in our traditions and invent our own styles that the rest of the world could also copy. The corporate community should also start seeing some good in their people instead of ploughing their money on foreigners.
I’m told people in the limelight often take advantage of young women by sleeping with them. Your comment…
I sincerely acknowledge the fact that this thing does happen but not with me. One thing which makes me appreciates women the most is the fact that I was raised by a single mother. Unfortunately she passed away in 2001 and I want this interview to be a dedication to her. May her soul rest in peace. She was a friend, a girlfriend and most importantly a mother. I’m not an opportunist and I respect women. I’m dedicated to my work and my life.
Are you dating anyone at the moment? 
I’m single and not looking for the simple reason that many women often fall in the quagmire of dating people on radio simply because they’re on radio. I don’t want to find myself in such a sticky situation.
Ha-ha! So, whenever you do decide to date, what kind of woman would fit the description of a good woman?
 I want a woman who was raised right. She has to be a cultured person with the main ingredient in her being, Botho. She also has to have a phenomenal body, humorous and not really super-intelligent. I want to have smart kids so clearly their mother and father need to have brains closer to Einstein’s. She has to have super looks and light-skinned too.
Is there anything else we need to know about Prince?
 I’m a patriot and I clearly think we’ve achieved a lot as a country and we must not sit back and bask in the sun.
What freaks you out in life?
 I’m afraid of death. A friend of mine once told me that no amount of education readies you for the loss of life. Even if you’re a professor and you lose a loved one you’ll always shed a tear.
What are your future plans? Together with my manager, Christie M, we’re working towards growing the Fresh Prince of GC brand. I would want to have a family and kids one day and they would need somebody to feed them. I have been given a platform to express myself and I want to use it to greater heights so that the businessperson in me comes out. I want, through my brand, to create an alliance market for Botswana and South African artistes to thrive. I simply want to create trade relations between Tswana and RSA arts. Anyone interested in knowing more about the Fresh Prince of GC brand can contact my manager, Christie M on 72258516.
Do you have any last words? 
It can be done. It has been proven. Let’s get together and hold hands and embrace this beautiful thing called life.
PERSONAL PROFILE
FULL NAMES: Prince Dimpho Masololo
D.O.B: 24 November 1981
P.O.B: Serowe
HOME VILLAGE: Serowe
FAV FOOD: Pap and Oxtail
FAV MUSIC: It’s quite diverse for me to pick one genre.
FAV MOVIE OF ALL TIMES: John Q starring Denzel Washington.
DREAM CAR: Hummer; mind you I’m not a small person.
CURRENTLY READING: The Secret by Rhonda Byrne.
HOLIDAY DESTINATION: Kasane