The culture and creative industries (CCI) sector plays a significant role in driving economic growth and fostering cultural identity. Recognizing the potential of the music industry in Botswana, a symposium titled “Guiding Botswana’s CCI Sector Towards Commercialization – Music Industry Pilot” was held to provide valuable insights and strategies for artists and stakeholders to thrive in the industry. Organized by the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sports, and Culture in collaboration with the European Union Delegation to Botswana, the symposium aimed to enhance the commercialization of Botswana’s music industry and empower local artists to succeed on both national and international platforms.

The symposium kicked off with opening remarks by Dean Molebatsi, a Policy Specialist in Arts and Culture from the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sports, and Culture. Molebatsi highlighted the importance of the CCI sector and its potential to drive economic development and foster cultural diversity in Botswana.

Clément Boutillier from the European Union Delegation to Botswana introduced the project, emphasizing the significance of collaboration between Botswana and the European Union in promoting the growth of the CCI sector.

Assistant Minister Hon. Honest Buti Billy from the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sports, and Culture delivered a keynote address, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting the music industry and creating an enabling environment for artists to thrive.

Shombi Ellis, CEO of the National Arts Council Botswana, outlined the objectives of the project and the symposium, which aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the music industry and equip artists with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate its complexities.

The first topic of discussion focused on understanding the music industry. Key aspects such as the music industry value chain, the role of key actors like producers, studios, and management, and the involvement of organizations like COSBOTS, NACB, and MYSC were explored. The panel discussion, moderated by Zuziwe Mavuma, featured industry experts including Benza (MD, Vth Season – Music Label), Sivu Mfenyana (Label Manager, Sony), Zenzele Hirschfeld (Zenzele Promotions), and Suffocate (Roc Lefatshe Records, Brand Slice, Khawa Visuals & Studio Africa). The panelists discussed refining talent through education and skills development, funding avenues for capacity development, barriers to entry, and strategies to increase competitiveness in the industry.

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The second topic focused on copyright and ownership, covering areas such as music publishing, intellectual property, and national and international perspectives. The panel discussion, moderated by Akhutleleng Kekaletswe, included experts such as Bongani Mdakane (Director, Mdakane Attorneys Inc.), Karabo Senna (GM: Licensing, SAMRO), Damien Bigot (Expertise France), Patrick Matlapeng (COSBOTS), and Bathusi Lesolobe (Palm Consult (PTY) LTD). The panelists shed light on the importance of copyright protection, licensing, and the legal aspects of the music industry.

Contractual agreements took center stage in the third topic, with discussions on key laws in the music industry and the licensing of artist music. Eddie Mhingo moderated the panel discussion, which included Bongani Mdakane, Wendy Bekker (MD of Ditto Music – Music Aggregator and Label), and Mr. Chilume. The panelists provided insights into the legal aspects of the music industry, including contractual agreements and licensing processes.

Monetizing music through various channels was the focus of the fourth topic. The panel discussion, moderated by Zuziwe Mavuma, featured industry experts including Benza, Thabo (MD, Mino Music), Damien Bigot, Violet Maila (Music In Africa Foundation), and Suffocate. The panelists explored different avenues for monetizing music, such as digital platforms, events, teaching, the formal and informal economy, and brand partnerships and sponsorships. They also addressed the challenges faced by artists when trying to monetize their music, with a focus on Botswana.

Topic five delved into PR elements for artists, including establishing their brand, leveraging social media for marketing, networking, and understanding PR do’s and don’ts. Moderated by Akhutleleng Kekaletswe, the panel discussion featured Thabo, Sivu Mfenyana (Label Manager, Sony South Africa), and Boogie-Sid.

The final topic centered around collaboration in the music industry, including identifying strategic partners and the types of partnerships that can be formed. The panel discussion, moderated by Eddie Mhingo, included Sivu Mfenyana, Karabo Senna, Mpho Sebina (Music Artist), and Han-C. The panelists shared their experiences, challenges, and insights into collaborative efforts in the music industry.

Throughout the symposium, breakout sessions were held to allow participants to delve deeper into specific topics, including understanding the music industry and contractual agreements. These sessions provided a platform for interactive discussions and allowed participants to gain practical knowledge and skills.

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The symposium concluded with an overview of the day by the Master of Ceremonies, followed by a presentation of a policy brief by the Botswana Institute for Development Policy Analysis (BIDPA). The policy brief highlighted key recommendations and strategies to guide the commercialization of Botswana’s music industry.

By providing a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and skill development, the “Guiding Botswana’s CCI Sector Towards Commercialization – Music Industry Pilot” symposium aimed to empower local artists and stakeholders in Botswana’s music industry. The insights and strategies shared during the symposium will contribute to the growth and sustainability of the music industry, paving the way for a vibrant and thriving creative economy in Botswana.