26 Oct 2017

Local and upcoming authors have been advised to work hard on their marketing strategy to ensure their books are promoted and reach people in order to get positive results.

Chairperson of Poetavango Spoken Word Poetry, Legodile Seganabeng said in an interview after the launch of a book entitled The Chair, written by an upcoming author, Keboamogetse Mothoemang.

He noted that it was frustrating as most authors have published books and were gathering dust on the shelves because they did not do enough in marketing them.

He added that they should make links with different stakeholders and make sure they appreciate their works.

Seganabeng, who is also a well-established author, emphasised the need for authors to take their time and distribute their books well, noting that they should not be in a hurry to publish more books while the previous ones were not doing well in the market.

He said they should upgrade their marketing efforts so that they promote their books and become successful on the writing industry.

He also pleaded with the communities to support local writers so that they grow and produce more in the future.

However, Seganabeng commended Mothoemang for a job well done and welcomed him to the writing industry, stating that ‘this is what we want to see as writers, more people having confidence and courage to go the self-publishing route’, he added.

In the past, he said people had passion for writing, but lacked confidence because they did not know where they would publish their books.

He encouraged new comers in the industry to join hands with Poetavango as it brings together Maun writers.

Seganabeng, popularly known as ‘Dredd X’ in the writing industry explained that at Poetavango, they equip writers with skills in creative writing.

Meanwhile, The Chair aims to spread the message about crime and its consequences.

It targets the public at large including school-going children.

The thematic morality of the book states that crime does not pay, education is the greatest investment towards an opulence lifestyle.

The author, Mothoemang explained that he was inspired by President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama when assuming his presidential role as he introduced good initiatives aimed at combating crime.

He said he found it fit as a concerned citizen to augment his efforts by publishing a book that displays good message that there are no shortcuts to a prosperous life and that criminal lifestyle could jeopardise people’s future.

“I was concerned about drug and substance abuse, which is rampant in schools’ environment and the society and my message is to encourage people to refrain from criminal activities, which could ruin their future.I want them to turn to God and focus on making decent life,” he added.

Mothoemang thanked all who contributed and supported him during his journey and more thanks were given to the book editor, Edwin Phalane.

He wished his book could be used in primary schools all the way through to tertiary as it carries a strong message, which could assist readers to become more responsible citizens.

Maun library officer, Hildah Bawani commended Mothoemang for publishing the book, noting that it was informative and hope it would make a difference in the society.

The book, she said, carries a strong message that aims to combat crime and ensure Botswana becomes a crime-free society. ENDS