Development of Music Industry Literature imperative-Report
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The Botswana International Music Conference (BIMC) which was hosted in Gaborone, Botswana, last year December, have resulted in a report, detailing the inputs and outcomes of all subject matters discussed at the conference. The recently released report highlights the immediate and future gains and opportunities as well as strategies that can grow the music industry; WeekendLife Editor DAVE BAAITSE discusses some of the recommendations.
The report has confirmed that the music industry in Botswana is faced with many challenges from; a small domestic market, lack of proper facilities for hosting major international and local events, lack of international and regional exposure of music practitioners and poor regulatory framework. The report further indicates that the speed at which the music industry is growing is currently dictated by the digital age and ever growing demand of fresh new content on digital online platforms, television and ever changing landscape of the media as “we are now in an era where content is king”.
The objective of the conference was to look at the structure of the Botswana music industry at national and regional (SADC) level. It looked at opportunities that exist in the Botswana industry and key projects that the country could embark on in the short term to attain quick gains and those that need a long term and would be achieved over the next five years with an effort to create employment and alleviate poverty amongst the nation.
“Due to limited available literature and statistics about the music industry or the entire creative industry, it’s important that the industry works closely with Statistics Botswana to explore ways in which a study could be conducted without compromising the industry value using proper tracer systems and data. Working closely with Statistics Botswana will help in Companies and Intellectual Property Agency (CIPA), Ministry of Youth Sports and Culture (MYSC) (Now Ministry of Youth, Sports and Cultural Development) and other arts organs in terms of how to capture data that can be used to grow the industry,” BIMC recommended.
The BIMC further indicates that MYSC, HRDC and Ministry of Education and Skills Development, must create a fund for research and development of literature on the music industry. This, according to the BIMC, will become valuable in coming years because as it stands, all information about the music industry is based on the South African and American music industry.
The report resolves that both ministries and all organs such as Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA) and Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) must come up with ways of training, and building capacity in the music industry. “Capacity building must not be left to MYSC only.
HRDC needs to be in the forefront to make sure there is no mismatch in terms of the current industry demands and patterns and what currently the creative industry is being trained on from Primary School to professional level. BQA must constantly find easier but effective ways of accrediting practitioners in various fields as this can assist in professionalizing the industry,” the report reads in part.
The conference also resolved that infrastructure development in the music industry is of paramount importance. Their contention is that MYSC might look at building state theatres or partnering with Ministry of Local Government by refurbishing 10 community halls countywide into conference and convention centres that can be later used for hosting concepts and conferences. This, BIMC reasons, will create massive employment during construction phase and after completion.
It also resolved that there are available opportunities in terms of cultural export program. “There is a huge demand for Setswana music across the SADC region especially traditional music. Botswana government and stakeholders need a clear plan of how they can tap into the international market. It is not sufficient to just be in Botswana because this ends up saturating the local market and collapsing performance fee prices for artists. Also, having Botswana artists in international events helps to market the country and boosts the tourism sector and Brand Botswana,” BIMC reported.
The report further says that there is also a need to review old laws. “Botswana Cinematography Act and as well as Copyright Act need to be viewed as many works in Botswana in the next seven years will be going into public domain especially the likes of Ratsie Setlhako and Sam Raditsebe. So the country must have mitigating structures in case these works go into the public domain,” the report reads.
Further, the conference noted that the cultural industries growth strategy must look at all aspects of the industry; both deficiencies, opportunities and legal framework and thereafter dissect the key areas of development and the economic impact in terms of employment creation and GDP impact, if the projects are to be embarked upon. Their main contention is that, the cultural development strategy must be aligned to the National Development (NDP) 11, National Policy on Culture, UNESCO Treaties, WIPO Treaties and Copyright Act or any other laws or policies.
BIMC’s advice to MYSC and all stakeholders who intend to carry economic impact studies is that such studies must also be accompanied with a growth strategy of the sector because “it does not make sense to come up with a figure to say the economic impact is so much, if the figure is low, then what happens and if its high then what happens as well! The study should also be clear as to what is the creative industry according to Botswana context.”
In closing, the report suggests that there will also be a need to implement the resolutions and strategies derived from the music conference to make sure the music industry strives. The conference was attended by both local and international speakers, musicians, music promoters, musicians, composers and upcoming musicians.
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BOTSWANA TO HOST MISS WORLD 2026
Even though Botswana has over the years been performing extremely poorly at the Miss World competition, the country has confirmed that it will be hosting the beauty festival in 2026. Initially, the country was to host Miss World next year, something it failed to confirm before deadline. Director at Miss Botswana, Benjamin Raletsatsi, says Botswana will be ready then to host all participants. Miss Botswana Top 25 finalists left the boot camp yesterday. Quite shocking though, Miss Botswana team is still failing basics as responding to media inquiries on time yet it is dangerously hoping to host an event of high status
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DJ Sway ‘saved’ the YAMAs
DJ Sway, the daring and ambitious on-air presenter of Yarona FM, played a crucial role in saving the radio station’s music awards, known as the YAMAs. The event was initially dry and disorganized, but DJ Sway, who co-hosted with Pearl Thusi, injected life into the show. However, things took a turn for the worse when Pearl Thusi abruptly left the stage, leaving DJ Sway to carry on alone. Despite the unexpected setback, DJ Sway rose to the occasion and captivated the audience, effectively putting an end to the drama caused by Pearl Thusi.
In an exclusive interview after the YAMAs, DJ Sway revealed the behind-the-scenes chaos that unfolded during the event. He acknowledged the script editors, Phalana and Hope, who worked tirelessly to reedit the script and adapt it to a one-host format. Despite the last-minute changes, DJ Sway remained composed and focused, thanks to the support of his colleagues, such as Owen Rampha, Katlego Rakola, Tshepang Motsisi (DJ Easy), and LB.
When asked about his initial reaction to the unexpected turn of events, DJ Sway admitted to feeling saddened by how things ended. However, he credited Pearl Thusi for giving him a much-needed confidence boost during his moment of doubt. She reminded him that he was destined for greatness and that he didn’t need big stars to succeed. With her words of encouragement, DJ Sway regained his composure and approached the rest of the show with the same professionalism and charisma he displays on the radio.
To overcome the challenges he faced, DJ Sway relied on his radio skills and calm personality. He engaged with the audience as if he were speaking to a single person, pointing out individuals in the crowd to create a more intimate connection. He also expressed gratitude for his backstage team, who provided support and ensured the smooth running of the show.
DJ Sway expressed satisfaction in being seen as the saving grace of the YAMAs. He believed that he fulfilled his role as a host and brought joy to the Yarona FM board, his family, and his fans. Despite his success, DJ Sway’s journey has not been without hardships. He has experienced the loss of his mother and sister, which has left a lasting impact on him. While he continues to grieve, he seeks solace in therapy sessions and relies on his father for emotional support.
DJ Sway’s dedication to his craft and ability to overcome adversity make him a remarkable figure in the radio industry. His vibrant personality and deep knowledge of music have made him a perfect fit for Yarona FM. Despite the challenges he has faced, DJ Sway remains determined to make a positive impact and bring joy to his listeners. With his talent and resilience, there is no doubt that DJ Sway will continue to thrive in his career and leave a lasting legacy in the world of radio.
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Chef Gustos walk of shame
Chef Gustos, the renowned hitmaker, recently experienced what can only be described as a walk of shame at the 8th edition of the Yarona FM Music Awards (YAMAs). Despite being nominated a whopping seven times, he failed to secure a single win. Ouch!
The night was filled with surprises, drama, and controversy, but the biggest winner of the evening was Han C, who walked away with three awards, including Best Pop and Best Male Single for his hit song, “Sebinki.” Han C graciously announced that he would be donating P10,000 from his winnings to his fellow nominees, promoting a spirit of togetherness among artists. What a noble gesture!
Meanwhile, Chef Gustos found himself on the losing end of several categories, including People’s Choice Artist of the Year, which he had won in the past. He seemed unfazed by the loss, stating, “People know that ‘Away’ was big, but they won’t stop me.” It’s clear that Chef Gustos is determined to continue making music, regardless of the awards he receives.
However, he did express his frustration with the outcome, suggesting that the awards may be corrupt. He declined to comment further, citing the need to protect his brand and maintain good relationships with corporate clients. It’s understandable that he wants to avoid any potential damage to his future prospects.
In fact, Chef Gustos went so far as to request that Yarona FM not nominate him for future YAMAs. It seems he wants to distance himself from the disappointment and focus on his music without the pressure of awards. Perhaps this decision will allow him to create freely and without the burden of expectations.
While Chef Gustos may have experienced a walk of shame at the YAMAs, it’s important to remember that awards do not define an artist’s talent or success. His fans still appreciate his music, and he continues to have gigs with corporate clients. So, despite the disappointment, Chef Gustos remains optimistic about his future in the industry.
In the end, the YAMAs may have been a letdown for Chef Gustos, but he’s determined to keep moving forward. He won’t let a lack of awards dampen his spirits or hinder his creativity. And who knows, maybe next time he’ll come back stronger and prove that he’s deserving of recognition. After all, the true measure of an artist’s success lies in the hearts of their fans, not in shiny trophies.