Moretele Choral Festival Extravaganza Unites Voices in Celebration of Faith, Culture and Heritage
Makapanstad – Song, spirit and unity took centre stage at the Moretele Choral Festival Extravaganza, as over 500 community members gathered at Mmamathibe Community Hall in Ward 20 for a vibrant celebration of faith, culture and musical excellence.
Sing-alongs, ululations and hallelujahs filled the venue, reaching a peak when renowned Tembisa clap and tap choir, Mighty Messengers, delivered a show-stopping performance. The audience joined in on favourites such as “Lehaba Ka Etsa Eng,” “Mollopuli,” and “Tlong Ho Jeso,” creating a powerful atmosphere of shared worship and joy.
Hosted by Moretele Local Municipality’s Community Development Services (CDS) Department in partnership with the North West Parks and Tourism Board, the festival brought together more than fifteen choirs, including clap and tap, male voices and choral groups, all showcasing rich local talent.
The event, held on Saturday, 28 March 2026, was attended by Moretele Mayor, Hon. Cllr Masango George Manyike, Speaker Hon. Cllr Freda Mapela, Ward 20 Councillor Phetogo Letlape, and Ward 8 Councillor Monicah Baloyi.
Local businessman Mr. Mpho Mashigo and beneficiaries of the Shopo ya Batho programme—an initiative funded through the Office of MEC Bitsa Lenkopane to empower unemployed residents through small businesses—were also in attendance.
Choirs such as Kopano Ke Matla, Agang Areka and Maubane Sweet Melodies delivered captivating performances, reinforcing the festival’s mission to promote social cohesion and preserve cultural heritage.
In a message of support, Mr. Mothibe from the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture commended the strong partnership between the department and the Municipality, highlighting the importance of sustained collaboration in developing the arts.
The festival further doubled as a learning platform, with Tshepang Leratshipa (Leradi) and Keamogetswe Sekara (Black Force) from Lebotloane Community Art Centre educating attendees on the meaning behind South Africa’s national symbols, particularly the colours of the national flag.
Addressing the choirs, Mayor Manyike encouraged them to utilise available community halls, noting ongoing renovations at Danhause (Moss Mary) Community Hall. He also urged local groups to draw inspiration from Mighty Messengers.
“Being part of a choir is a bold step—it shows commitment, discipline and the desire to achieve something meaningful,” he said.
Mighty Messengers lived up to this sentiment, impressing both vocally and visually with their coordinated attire—women in matching dresses and headwraps, and men in formal black and white.
Attendees were treated to refreshments throughout the day, including fruits, snacks, lunch and soft drinks, rounding off a well-organised and memorable event.
The Moretele Choral Festival Extravaganza stood as a testament to the power of music to unite communities, uplift spirits and celebrate a shared cultural identity.
Issued by: Communications Unit – Office of the Municipal Manager
Communications Manager: Mr. Mothupi Malebye | 083 737 3493
Communications Officer: Mr. Buti Molopyane | 072 883 1153 / 012 716 1300
