31 May 2018

Government aims to provide adequate support for a structured environment conducive to the thriving of the entertainment industry, President Mokgweetsi Masisi has said.

Briefing the media on May 30, he said the role of government in aiding the business of entertainment to flourish could not be overephasised.

The remarkable performance of the private sector driven entertainment industry could be further explored through strategic partnerships with government to boost economic growth, the president said.

He said opportunities within the entertainment industry had not been fully harnessed.

President Masisi noted that the industry was experiencing a huge slant and therefore needed to be resuscitated.

The resuscitation, he said, would be rolled out under close scrutiny to avoid any encroachment into laws currently in place.

The president said government would not be reckless in implementing the entertainment industry reforms saying there would be proper consultation at regional and physical planning levels.

 “The idea to consider the extension of the liquor trading hours will also be infused into the entertainment plan so that the industry can contribute to government’s job creation drive,” he said.

With a sustainable structure in place, President Masisi said, the entertainment industry could be a key player in transforming the country’s economy. 

Meanwhile, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development, Mr Thapelo Olopeng informed the media that government had lifted the ban on stadium festival usage and was in the process of reviewing security guidelines to ensure revellers’ safety.

Minister Olopeng said the use of glass bottles at festivals would be prohibited.

 Regarding the reduction of the alcohol levy, he said government was developing terms of reference and would engage all  stakeholders on the issue. ENDS