20 Mar 2017

Ngamiland district commissioner,  Keolopile Leipego says government is fully behind the development and promotion of  the arts industry in the country.

Leipego said this during Indian Arts Exhbition held in Maun recently, where four groups from the region were funded to the tune of P240 000.

He cited the President’s Day Art competitions, an initiative aimed at empowering artists and as proof that government was behind the industry.

He noted that arts could be used as a source of livelihood.

The groups, Poetavango, Mbanderu and Otjiserandu were all assisted through Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development for the financial year 2015/16.

Further, Leipego explained that over P430 000 was used for arts in the region in this financial year, saying it was clear sign that government was committed to support the growth of arts.

He said the district was rich in culture as it was home to the Gchwihaba Caves and had associations, which promoted art .

Thus, he pledged to support such associations to ensure culture was promoted and preserved.

Also, district commissioner welcomed the Indiana Art Exhibition saying India was one country with a rich culture.

In addition, he appreciated the Indian Embassy for sharing Indian culture with Batswana.

He said art communicated history, culture, strengthened relationships and promoted peace.

Batswana, he said would learn and understand where the Indians come from through the displayed artifacts. ENDS