It has been a long time since I last wrote here, and life has been hectic, stressful and busy as we prepare for the live launch of Sephonono on April 30th. The rehearsals, planning, and creative momentum have been nonstop, and the days have slipped by quickly.
But today, I finally paused.
I took a day off because I had the honour of spending it with Sir Alexander McCall Smith, a man whose stories have brought Botswana to the world with such gentleness, humour, and grace.
A Journey to Mochudi
We spent the day in Mochudi, surrounded by the village’s warmth, history, and quiet dignity. Sir Alexander was everything one imagines — gracious, witty, and deeply kind. Every conversation felt like a story unfolding.
To my complete surprise, he presented me with the No. 1 Music Award — a gesture I will treasure forever.
I performed with my band, singing Sephonono, Mmasinoko and of course Precious in honour of the unforgettable Mma Ramotswe who lives in so many of our hearts.
The music settled beautifully into the spirit of Mochudi, as though the village itself was listening.
An Evening of Memories
To complete this remarkable day, my husband Richard joined us for supper.
Many people don’t know this, but Richard worked with Sir Alexander many years ago at the University of Botswana, during those early, formative days when UB was still taking shape and building its identity.
Watching the two of them together was pure joy — like two long‑lost schoolboys, laughing, reminiscing, and filling the evening with stories of UB’s beginnings and the people who helped shape it.
Their conversation flowed late into the night, rich with memory and warmth.
A Perfect Pause Before the Big Day
This unexpected day — full of kindness, music, memory, and laughter — felt like a blessing. A gentle breath before the final preparations for the Sephonono Live Launch.
I return to work tomorrow with a full and grateful heart.
Ke a leboga, Sir Alexander, for your generosity.
Ke a leboga, Botswana, for your stories and spirit.
And ke a leboga to all of you — for walking this journey with me.
Nnunu Ramogotsi: Africa's Jewel 