Gospel Awards were a milestone for the genre

Inaugural show attracts masses

TEFO PHEAGE

For a struggling genre, the The 1st Annual Botswana Gospel Music Awards (BOGMA) held at Winners Chapel, Gaborone over the weekend proved that dedication from industry players and stakeholders goes a long way in strengthening the much loved artform which former Minister of Labour and Home Affairs Peter Siele described as vital to the lives of Botswana religious society.
The awards were certainly characterised by glitz and glamour and welcomed forgotten and popular gospel music alike under one roof. BOGMA spokesperson, Obakeng Sengwaketse told Time Out that they were overwhelmed by the turnout, “The crowd was amazing, we did not anticipate that number and apart from the time factor we are generally happy with everything,” he said. The event started an hour late of the scheduled time.
The awards were dominated by two powerful women, Leah through her song “You are worthy” as well Mayoress Mochankana and hit “Rara-Father in heaven.” The duo scooped several awards and left their counterparts in envy.
The awards were also graced by three international artists from South Africa, Namibia and Swaziland whose uplifting performances captivated the crowd and raised their spirits alongside Vee with his energetic ensemble who ensured that the occasion was turned up a few notches with his usual high energy set.
Vee further gave a moving testimony to a spirit-filled occasion, urging the multitudes to never give up in life citing him as a living testimony. “I started from nowhere. I was washing cars at a car-wash and I was not even allowed to go behind the drivers wheel to move them but today I am here. Judge for yourself. Follow your dream and God will see you through,” he said much to the cheers of the crowd.
Leah was the biggest winner of the night scooping scooped awards for the best gospel Album of the year, gospel song of the year, best female artist as well as best new comer. Best traditional gospel ward went to, Mayoress Mochankana, Best Hip Hop went to Bryan Dub