Race for Rhinos Art Competition Blends Creativity and Conservation

Race for Rhinos Art Competition Blends Creativity and Conservation. The Race for Rhinos Art Competition, sponsored by the National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB), brought together sport, creativity, and conservation during the Race for Rhinos Golf Day held on 20 March 2026.

The event showcased the talents of six young visual artists — Kaene Palalani, Salome Iris Kidmond, Michelle Motshedi, Oratile Selabe, Kutlo Kenabatho, and Olerato Lenah Sefakonyana — who created live artworks inspired by the Race for Rhinos initiative. Their pieces added a powerful creative dimension to the day, reinforcing the connection between cultural expression and wildlife conservation.

The prize-giving ceremony was officiated by NACB CEO Mr. Gaokgakala D. Lemmenyane alongside Former President His Excellency Lieutenant General Dr. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, underscoring the importance of the initiative at both community and national levels.

A highlight of the evening was the art auction, where the artists’ works were sold to raise funds for rhino conservation. This transformed their passion into tangible action, directly supporting efforts to protect one of Botswana’s most endangered species.

By sponsoring the competition, NACB reaffirmed its commitment to initiatives that unite community, talent, and conservation. The event demonstrated how the arts can serve as a powerful platform for advocacy, raising awareness and mobilising support for wildlife protection.

The Race for Rhinos Art Competition reflects a broader vision of integrating cultural and environmental priorities, ensuring that creativity contributes to sustainable development. It also highlights the role of young artists in shaping narratives that inspire collective responsibility for Botswana’s natural heritage.

NACB expressed pride in supporting the initiative, noting that the combination of art and conservation creates a lasting impact that resonates beyond the event itself.