The village of Tutume was in excitement and pride as Anicia Gaothusi, the newly crowned Miss Botswana 2024, made her triumphant return to her hometown. The homecoming celebration was a grand affair, filled with joyous performances and overwhelming community support, honouring their local queen who has captured the nation’s heart.
The festivities kicked off with a motorcade from Tutume Forestry to the Thini Kgotla, where village elders and local chiefs eagerly awaited Anicia’s arrival. The convoy made a stop at Thini Community Learning Center, where she was received with a special tribute quilted blankets spread out in her honour. The motorcade continued to ThinI Primary School, where Miss Botswana was joined by the Miss Thini Primary School and her princesses, celebrating Anicia’s connections to her roots.
The leading entourage of the motorcade was a vibrant mix of community leaders and supporters. Tutume Police, elderly women on their bicycles (Hamba), Tutume District Council, Life Flight Rescue, the Miss World Botswana team, Tutume Transport and Services, local taxis and well-wishers from both Gaborone, Tutume and surrounding areas came together to celebrate this historic moment for the village.
Upon her arrival, Anicia was met with a showcase of traditional performances from the Tutume Cultural Group. The iconic ‘Ndazula’ dance, choral renditions, and a Hosana act reception, expressed her heartfelt thanks to the people of Tutume for their unwavering support. “I carry the love and encouragement of my village with me as I embark on this journey as Miss Botswana 2024,” she said, beaming with pride.
The day was filled with memorable stops. One of the highlights was Anicia’s visit to Tutume McConnell College, where she spoke to the students about the power of perseverance and dreaming big. She drew inspiration from prominent Bakalanga athletes like Issac Makwala and Nigel Amos, whose achievements have shone a spotlight on Tutume showcasing that dedication and hard work can elevate even the most humble of beginnings.
Anicia also visited Shangano Junior Secondary School in Sebina, where she took the opportunity to discuss her Beauty With A Purpose project, “Lights.” The project focusses on educating communities about primary healthcare and empowering them with essential first-aid skills. She shared her personal journey of balancing pageantry with academic
