Botswana's creatives met to exchange feedback on periodic reporting for the 2005 Convention on Protection and promotion of the diversity of cultural expressions.

Botswana's creative minds gathered on the18th of February 2025 in Gaborone for a stakeholder feedback exchange workshop on the periodic reporting for the 2005 Convention on the Protection and promotion of the diversity of cultural expressions. The vibrant workshop was a melting pot of ideas, collaboration, and a shared vision for a brighter future of the country's cultural and creative industries.  The event was organized by UNESCO in collaboration with the Ministry of Sport and Arts and the Botswana National Commission for UNESCO under the ReIShaping Policies for Creativity and Artistic Freedom project supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). 

Fashion Designer and Founder of Glotto, Ms. Mboko Basiami 

The event was a strategic platform for discussions between diverse stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations (CSOs), private sector representatives, creatives and international partners. This diverse group brought a wealth of knowledge and experience, ensuring a holistic approach to the challenges and opportunities within the creative sector. They emphasized on the need for and importance of enhancing market access for Botswana's creative talents, a crucial step towards global recognition and economic growth.  

Filmmaker and Co-Founder for Women in Film Botswana, Ms. Serena Serene Mmifinyana. 

Reflections on the findings of the QPR report were crucial in facilitating constructive discussions including the importance of reaching out to marginalized communities, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the resources and opportunities within the creative industries. Several critical areas for development were identified including the integration of creative skills into Botswana’s education system from primary to university levels, establishment of art residencies and incubators, and the development of standards and frameworks to ensure that Botswana's creative products meet global quality standards. 

An implementation strategy was collaboratively developed focusing on public-private partnerships, regional and international collaborations, and value chain development. These strategies aim to create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures talent and facilitates market access in the country. 

Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Arts, Mr. Matebesi.

"It is crucial that all stakeholders take ownership of the proposed initiatives and work collaboratively towards their implementation." said Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Arts, Mr. Matebesi, urged.

Mr. Matebesi further emphasized on the need to move from planning to action to unlock the potential of the creative industries to drive economic growth, job creation and sustainable development in Botswana. The workshop did not just create a platform for the presentation of the findings of the Quadrennial Periodic Report under the UNESCO 2005 Convention but also facilitated discussions on potential challenges paving the way for innovative solutions.  

With continued support and collaboration, Botswana's creative sector is poised for a transformative journey, one that promises to unlock new opportunities and elevate the country's cultural identity on the global stage. Efforts to increase awareness on arts promotion paired with the integration of relevant legislations, strategic plans that align national laws with the Convention are very crucial for Botswana to move forward with creative intent.