Gaborone — Beyond U'S Afrotech event is positioning Botswana's electronic music scene for greater exposure by bringing local DJs and producers together with established international acts for a day of music, mentorship and networking.
The event, scheduled for Saturday at Bojanala Waterfront, will feature some of Botswana's leading Afrotech acts, including Tefo Foxx, Lloyd BW, Robotic OFC, Kutlo Scope, Hapex Guru and Dizzy.
While the event remains firmly rooted in promoting local talent, pairing Botswana artists with established names from the region and beyond, it is also key to opening opportunities for growth.
South Africa's DJ Kent and Darque, as well as UK-based Lewis Piriz, are among the international acts billed to perform and are expected to provide local DJs with exposure and mentorship.
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The event, which started three years ago as an intimate celebration of local Afrotech and house music, has grown into one of Gaborone's anticipated lifestyle events. "We have gone from smaller venues like Wagga Gardens to now hosting at Bojanala Waterfront to accommodate demand. Our community online has also grown to more than 2 400 followers," said Tefo 'Tefo Foxx' Phologolo, curator and organiser of the event, in an interview.
He said the move to a larger outdoor venue and the introduction of two stages demonstrated growing audience and interest in Afro House music in Botswana. The Beyond Deep Stage will focus on soulful and spiritual sounds, while the main stage will offer a more energetic experience featuring local and international acts.
Phologolo said the event's curation was intended to maintain the roots of Afrotech while exposing local artists to influential names in the genre.
Previous editions were held at Wagga Gardens, Game City Marquee and The Precinct. Phologolo said Bojanala Waterfront was selected because of its space, atmosphere and accessibility.
"The past editions taught us that the crowd wants space to dance, enjoy and create content. Bojanala Waterfront gives us room for two stages and a sunset aesthetic that matches the Beyond U'S brand colours. The outdoor setting, greenery and water views make it perfect for Afro House," he said.
Beyond U'S also contributes to the creative economy through temporary employment opportunities and increased business for small enterprises during the event.
Phologolo said the long-term ambition was to empower more local creatives and create pathways for Botswana talent to break into international markets.
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"The Afrotech scene in Gaborone is growing and more DJs are starting to produce. Soon we will see our own Botswana DJs touring South Africa as well as Europe," he said.
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