Botswana's Afrotech Scene Set for Elevation by Beyond U'S This Saturday
Botswana's electronic music scene is poised for significant growth with the Beyond U'S Afrotech event, bringing local DJs together with international acts for a day of music, mentorship, and networking. The event, now an anticipated Gaborone lifestyle staple, showcases the burgeoning Afro House community and aims to empower local talent for global recognition.The Beyond U'S Afrotech event is set to significantly elevate Botswana's electronic music landscape by fostering a dynamic environment for local DJs and producers to collaborate and network with renowned international artists. Scheduled for Saturday at the picturesque Bojanala Waterfront in Gaborone, the event promises a full day dedicated to music, mentorship, and professional development.
This year's lineup features a strong contingent of Botswana's leading Afrotech acts, including Tefo Foxx, Lloyd BW, Robotic OFC, Kutlo Scope, Hapex Guru, and Dizzy. Emphasizing the promotion of local talent, Beyond U'S strategically pairs these artists with established names from the region and beyond to unlock new growth opportunities. International luminaries such as South Africa's DJ Kent and Darque, alongside UK-based Lewis Piriz, are billed to perform, providing invaluable exposure and mentorship to the local DJ community.
Curator and organiser Tefo 'Tefo Foxx' Phologolo highlighted the event's remarkable evolution. What began three years ago as an intimate celebration of local Afrotech and house music has burgeoned into one of Gaborone's most eagerly 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," Phologolo stated, underscoring the increasing audience interest in Afro House music in Botswana.
The move to the larger outdoor Bojanala Waterfront venue facilitated the introduction of two distinct stages. The Beyond Deep Stage will cater to soulful and spiritual sounds, while the main stage will deliver a more energetic experience, featuring both local and international acts. Phologolo explained that the event's curation meticulously maintains the authentic roots of Afrotech while simultaneously exposing local artists to influential figures within the genre. Previous editions of Beyond U'S were successfully held at Wagga Gardens, Game City Marquee, and The Precinct.
The selection of Bojanala Waterfront was strategic, driven by its expansive space, inviting 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," Phologolo elaborated. Beyond its entertainment value, Beyond U'S also plays a crucial role in bolstering the creative economy by generating temporary employment opportunities and increasing business for small enterprises during the event.
Looking ahead, Phologolo shared the long-term vision for Beyond U'S: to empower more local creatives and forge pathways for Botswana's talent to penetrate international markets. He expressed optimism about the future, stating, "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."