The iconic Khawa Dune Challenge and Cultural Festival, one of Botswana’s premier motorsport and cultural tourism events, is set to undergo a transformative chapter as Incepta Communications takes over the management and hosting of the event from 2025 to 2027. This follows a strategic decision by the Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) to hand over the reins to the private sector and specialised sports entities through a competitive tender process.
Originally scheduled for May, this year’s edition of the festival has been rescheduled to June 27–29, 2025, due to unforeseen logistical challenges that delayed preparation efforts by BTO and its partners. The new dates are expected to allow sufficient time for a seamless and impactful experience.
Announcing the changes during a Tsabong District Council meeting, Council Chairman Elias Motlhanke highlighted the significant role the BTO and the festival continue to play in promoting rural tourism and community development. He noted that the Khawa Dune Challenge has brought economic vitality to Khawa since its inception in 2012. Residents have gained through income-generating activities such as food stalls, crafts, cultural performances, and service provision. With Incepta Communications now leading the next phase, the event promises to become even more rewarding.
Motlhanke further explained that the decision to postpone the 2025 edition was made in the interest of quality execution and effective coordination with all stakeholders. He added that the extra time will help streamline logistics and give partners the opportunity to deliver an event of the highest standard.
He also addressed recent changes stemming from the rationalisation of national ministries, which has led to the formation of the Ministry of Art and Sport as a separate entity. This transition, he acknowledged, has caused some disruption, including delayed programming and staff reallocation across departments, which in turn has impacted service delivery.
Despite these challenges, Motlhanke took a moment to celebrate a major achievement in youth leadership from the Tsabong District. He proudly announced that Oabona Jacobs, a young woman from the district, has been appointed as a board member of the Botswana National Youth Council by the Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs.
Motlhanke said this was a tremendous honour for the district and described Jacobs as a brilliant representative for the youth. Jacobs has already begun fulfilling her duties and recently participated in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum in New York this past April, where she actively contributed to global discussions as a panellist and debater.
He urged all local departments to support Jacobs in her new role, noting that her appointment is not only a personal achievement but a strategic step in elevating the voices and aspirations of young people in the region.
With Incepta Communications at the helm, the Khawa Dune Challenge and Cultural Festival is poised for growth and greater visibility. As the 2025 event draws nearer, stakeholders and community members are optimistic about its potential to further empower the local economy, promote cultural pride, and showcase Botswana’s adventure tourism landscape on a regional and international stage.
