News
New Documentary ‘Sound Connects Us’ Highlights Cultural Projects in Southern Africa
The collaborative effort between the Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) and Goethe-Institut has culminated in the release of a compelling documentary titled “Sound Connects Us.” This documentary sheds light on a multitude of cultural endeavors undertaken across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, made possible through the backing of the Sound Connects Fund (SCF).
Spanning a duration of 40 months, the SCF provided support to 36 organizations throughout Southern Africa, facilitating the successful execution of developmental cultural projects in nations such as Angola, Botswana, eSwatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Central to the fund’s ethos was the universal allure of ‘sound’ as a guiding principle.
Eddie Hatitye, Executive Director of MIAF, expressed the profound impact of the SCF, noting its role in propelling the foundation into various artistic domains, including film, visual arts, gaming, and animation. He lauded the remarkable achievements witnessed across the SADC region, encapsulated within the documentary’s compelling narrative.
The documentary serves as a testament to the invaluable contributions of the SCF in fortifying the cultural and creative industries (CCIs) in Southern Africa. Through immersive visuals, viewers are transported across the region, encountering cultural initiatives in Angola, eSwatini, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, complemented by insights from SCF implementers based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
A crew filming an indigenous community in Botswana through a project funded by the Sound Connects Fund. Photo: Quihaba FX
Commencing in Maputo, Mozambique, where the Sound Connects Conference took place, the documentary offers a glimpse into the motivations and aspirations driving these transformative projects. It not only showcases the final outcomes but also highlights the change-makers who propelled these initiatives forward across the region.
Carolin Christgau, Head of Culture and Development at Goethe-Institut Johannesburg, reflected on the profound journey undertaken through the Sound Connects Fund, emphasizing the newfound insights into the creative landscapes of the SADC region. The documentary, she hopes, will illuminate the diversity and creativity experienced throughout this endeavor, inspiring further engagement from both individuals and governments to bolster the potential of the CCIs.
Between 2020 and 2024, the MIAF and Goethe-Institut spearheaded the implementation of the Sound Connects Fund, a monumental initiative aimed at enhancing the cultural and creative sectors in Southern Africa. This documentary offers a glimpse into the initiative’s impact across nine countries, supported by the ACP-EU Culture Programme, under the auspices of the Organisation of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS).
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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