27 Jul 2025

Government is currently working on securing P80m to buy content from the creatives as a commitment to creating a nurturing environment, as the arts are part of government’s national development agenda.  

 “We are moving with intent,” said Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng at the premier of Mophato Dance Theatre’s double bill Inyaya/Borwa productions at Maitisong theatre, Friday.  He said government is changing laws to support the industry. 

“In this session of Parliament, I will table the Cinematography Act which will provide a rich legal framework for content creators to do their work. We are also engaging with social media networks with the view of having our young people benefit through content monetisation,” Kelebeng said.

Kelebeng also emphasised that the creative industry is a powerful tool for economic diversification. The creative industry, he said could become an engine that drives Botswana’s economy.

“It is no longer just about entertainment, it is about jobs, tourism, innovation, and national pride,” added Kelebeng saying groups like Mophato have shown that culture was a world class product. 

Kelebeng said investing in the creative industry was good economics. He said by supporting talent, funding productions and building platforms they were creating the next generation of global creative to tell Botswana story to the world. The  minister appealed and urged all stakeholders to support the creative industry to build the creative economy they wanted for Botswana. ENDS