Local artists, musicians, filmmakers, fashion designers and performers will take centre stage during the country’s 60th Independence celebrations as government seeks to transform the Diamond Jubilee into the largest showcase of local creative talent in the nation’s history. Speaking at the launch of the 90-day countdown, Minister of Sport and Arts Jacob Kelebeng said the celebrations would place unprecedented emphasis on the creative industries as a driver of economic growth and national identity.
“For the first time, artists, musicians, filmmakers, fashion designers, visual artists, writers, performers and other creatives will occupy centre stage through festivals, exhibitions, performances and creative showcases across the country,” Kelebeng said.
He said the decision reflects government’s growing recognition of the creative economy’s contribution to employment and economic diversification.
“This recognises the creative economy as a key contributor to employment creation and economic diversification,” he said.
From July through September, communities across Botswana will host music performances, cultural festivals, exhibitions, fashion showcases and creative industry programmes aimed at celebrating local talent and stimulating local economies.
The arts programme forms part of a broader strategy to make the Diamond Jubilee more inclusive and community-driven than previous Independence celebrations.
“The Ministry of Sport and Arts has therefore been entrusted with coordinating these national celebrations,” Kelebeng said. “Our role is to ensure that Independence celebrations become a platform for preserving our heritage, promoting national unity, showcasing Botswana’s creative talent, stimulating tourism and creating economic opportunities for our people.”
From July through September, communities across Botswana will host music performances, cultural festivals, exhibitions, fashion showcases and creative industry programmes aimed at celebrating local talent and stimulating local economies.
Artists, musicians, designers, filmmakers and performers are expected to headline a series of creative industry showcases leading up to Independence Day. The celebrations will culminate on September 30 with a carnival, cultural performances and national entertainment at the Gaborone Main Mall as Botswana marks six decades of independence.
