News
National Arts Council of Botswana finally launches with a view to “Champion Cultural and Creative Sector”
Botswana – In a momentous occasion filled with anticipation and excitement, the National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB) was officially launched, marking a significant milestone for the nation’s creative and cultural sector. The launch event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, artists, government officials, and supporters of the arts community. The CEO of NACB, Ms. Shombi Ellis, delivered an impassioned speech, outlining the council’s vision, goals, and commitment to empowering artists and promoting Botswana’s rich cultural heritage.
During her speech, Ms. Ellis expressed her joy at witnessing the realization of a long-awaited dream for the NACB. She acknowledged the collective efforts of various stakeholders, including His Excellency The President of the Republic of Botswana, Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, the government, the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture, associations, public and private sector partners, and artists themselves, in shaping the council’s mandate.
Ms. Ellis emphasized the NACB’s core objectives, which revolve around inspiring and nurturing creative excellence while preserving Botswana’s cultural traditions. She proudly announced the appointment of a fully functional Board of Directors, comprising 11 members who will provide strategic direction and leadership. The executive management team has also been appointed and has already assumed office.
Referencing Richard Kamler’s words that “art is our one true global language,” Ms. Ellis underscored the profound impact of art in revealing, healing, and transforming societies. She highlighted the NACB’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for artists by implementing robust policy and legislative frameworks. These frameworks will advocate for the protection of artists’ works, safeguard their intellectual property rights, and prioritize marginalized groups such as children, the disabled, and the unemployed.
To support the growth and professionalization of the arts industry, the NACB will collaborate closely with societies, trusts, and associations. The council will provide funding opportunities through arts and culture grants, facilitating regional and international cultural exchanges, residencies, and events for the promotion and development of Botswana’s artists on a global scale.
Another key initiative of the NACB is the establishment of artistic and cultural spaces in both urban and rural communities. These spaces will serve as safe havens for artists to work, create, and conduct the business of art. The NACB aims to stimulate local consumption of art and cultural products while encouraging the growth of performance and community productions.
Ms. Ellis highlighted the importance of partnerships with ministries, associations, companies, and development partners to implement master classes, training programs, and artist capacity-building initiatives. She also mentioned the NACB’s collaboration with the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture and the Ministry of Finance on the Botswana EU Policy Dialogue Facility Programme Support. This program aims to guide Botswana’s Culture and Creative Industries sector towards commercialization, with a focus on the music industry.
The NACB further intends to collaborate with a local bank to provide customized banking products and solutions for creatives. Additionally, a financial capacity-building scheme will be explored in partnership with the financial sector to strengthen the creative and cultural industries.
In closing, Ms. Ellis expressed her excitement about upcoming events and partnerships that will further contribute to the growth and recognition of Botswana’s artists. The hosting of the Eighteenth Session of the Intergovernmental committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Kasane was highlighted as an opportunity to boost cultural tourism, hospitality, and related sectors.
WhatsApp has introduced a new music-sharing feature, enabling artists and musicians to connect with fans, promote their music, and drive engagement. Users can now share music in Status updates and Channels, integrating with Spotify to display album art, song titles, and a “Play on Spotify” button for seamless music discovery.
A Game-Changer for Artists and the Music Industry For musicians, this feature offers an effortless way to share their latest releases, exclusive previews, or personal playlists directly with fans. Unlike traditional social media posts, WhatsApp’s end-to-end encrypted Status updates ensure that artists can share music directly with their core audience—fans who have saved their contact details—creating a more intimate and engaged connection.
WhatsApp Channels further elevate this experience by allowing artists, record labels, and music organizations to broadcast updates to their followers. As a one-way communication tool, Channels provide a direct and distraction-free way to share new releases, tour announcements, and exclusive content.
Followers can engage with updates by reacting with emojis or participating in polls, giving artists valuable insights into fan preferences without the noise of public comment sections.
How the New Feature Works Music in WhatsApp Status:
- Users can now overlay up to 60 seconds of music from the WhatsApp Audio Library onto their photos or videos.
- These Status updates remain visible in the ‘Updates’ section for 24 hours, ensuring maximum visibility.
- Music in WhatsApp Channels: Artists can use Channels to share updates about new songs, upcoming concerts, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Followers cannot reply directly to messages, ensuring a controlled and streamlined communication experience.
- Enhanced Privacy: WhatsApp’s dual contact model ensures that Status updates and Channel interactions remain private. Followers cannot see each other’s information or engagement, making it a safe space for authentic artist-fan interactions.
For years, Botswana has been calling for more major artists to hit our shores. We’ve watched as international and African superstars tour neighboring countries, leaving us with only social media highlights and the lingering hope that one day, the big names will make their way here. That day is now entirely up to us.
Enter TOORLY, a revolutionary touring platform that puts the power in the hands of the fans. No more waiting, no more hoping—if enough of us want a show, we can make it happen. And TOORLY’s first major play in Africa? The one and only Nasty C.
Nasty C’s Ivyson Tour Africa: You Decide Where It Stops
South African rap icon Nasty C has officially put out the call. The Ivyson Tour Africa is coming, and instead of a fixed lineup of cities, the decision is now in the hands of fans. Botswana, this is our chance to prove we’re a must-stop destination.
Taking to Instagram, Nasty C made it clear: If you don’t see your city listed, hit the link and request it. The more requests a city gets, the higher the chance it becomes an official tour stop.
His exact words?
“IT’S GO TIME. The Ivyson Tour Africa is coming, and YOU decide where. Hit the link in my bio to request me in your city. If you don’t see your city, head to @itsTOORLY and start your own fan request.”
How to Get Nasty C to Botswana
It’s simple: 📌 Go to TOORLY’s website or social media
📌 Search for Botswana (Gaborone, Francistown—wherever you want the show!)
📌 Click ‘Request’ and spread the word
📌 Get your squad, your cousins, your whole street involved—because numbers matter
This isn’t just about one show. It’s about proving that Botswana is a prime stop for international and African artists. If we rally now, more artists will take notice, and our music scene will get the respect it deserves.
Why This Matters for Botswana’s Live Music Scene
We’ve had glimpses of what it means to host world-class artists—from Rick Ross pulling up to St. Louis, to the unforgettable nights with Burna Boy and Davido. But those moments have been rare. Botswana’s fans are some of the most loyal, engaged, and hungry for top-tier live experiences. Now, with TOORLY making touring demand-driven, we have the chance to put Botswana on the map permanently.
Can Local Artists Use TOORLY?
Absolutely. TOORLY isn’t just for international superstars like Nasty C—it’s a fan-driven touring platform, meaning local artists in Botswana can also use it to gauge demand and plan their own shows.
If we show up for this, we change the game. If enough of us request Botswana, Nasty C will pull up. And once he does, others will follow.
Botswana, let’s make it happen. #IvysonTourAfrica #TOORLYBotswana #BringNastyCToBW
Celebrated poet and musician iDLE is thrilled to announce the release of his latest single, “Soboka,” now available on all major streaming platforms.
The new single, “Soboka,” marks a powerful return for iDLE, showcasing his lyrical ability and unique storytelling. The song reflects iDLE’s artistic growth and renewed energy.
“I took a break from performing and releasing poetry, but my pen never rested,” said iDLE. “The ink flowed over many pages, telling countless stories. Now, after finding balance in all things art, I’m excited to share this journey with you all. ‘Soboka’ is just the beginning.”
Key Highlights:
Release Date: 01/07/2024
Streaming Platforms: Available on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Amazon Music, and more.
Music Video: An official music video for “Soboka” will be released soon.
About iDLE: iDLE is a renowned poet from Kanye, Botswana, known for his captivating performances and thought-provoking poetry. iDLE has touched the hearts of many with his words and music. His hiatus allowed him to explore new artistic avenues, leading to the creation of “Soboka,” a testament to his enduring talent and passion for the arts.
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