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The BW Creative Industry’s uprising

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To say the year 2020 has been one of the hardest on record for Botswana musicians and creatives in general is a bit of an understatement. In a year where virtually (no pun intended) not many have earned an income dude to the anomaly that has been Covid 19, things seem to have a taken a turn at ‘tahoe falls’ and now, vocal players in the music business have rallied around a common call in protest of the Botswana Government’s decision to continue to keep the industry closed.

Following an initial botched meeting on Tuesday, the artists issued a rallying call for the industry and supporters to come out for a ‘meeting’ in old Naledi, and come out they did. Unfortunately, no social distancing was observed and this will only prove to strengthen the Covid Task forces resolve to keep the doors closed on the music industry. Local Corner was there to expertly capture and share this story.

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New Documentary ‘Sound Connects Us’ Highlights Cultural Projects in Southern Africa

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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.

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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).

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Botswana Mourns Kwaito Star ‘Mapetla’ Ntirang: Tragic Accident

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Botswana is mourning the tragic loss of Kwaito star Thabo ‘Mapetla’ Ntirang, whose sudden death has sent shockwaves through the music community. Mapetla, known for his vibrant music and multifaceted talents, was involved in a devastating car accident near Gaborone on March 3rd, 2024.

Mapetla was more than just a musician; he was a dynamic presence in Botswana’s entertainment scene, excelling as an actor, songwriter, entrepreneur, record producer, and TV presenter. His hit songs like ‘Skhokho’ and ‘Ah’ not only captured the hearts of his fans but also resonated across borders, earning him acclaim far beyond Botswana’s shores.

The circumstances surrounding Mapetla’s death serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. Excessive speeding is reported to have played a role in the tragic accident, sparking conversations about the need for safer driving practices in Botswana.

Mapetla’s family confirmed his passing on social media, expressing their deep sorrow and emphasizing his lasting impact on the music industry and beyond. Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow artists, and public figures, reflecting on Mapetla’s legacy and the void left by his untimely departure.

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Despite the profound sadness felt by many, there is also a sense of celebration as Botswana remembers Mapetla’s life and contributions. His music will continue to be cherished, serving as a testament to his enduring influence and the joy he brought to countless individuals.

As the nation mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, there is a united effort to honor Mapetla’s memory and ensure that his legacy lives on. Though he may be gone, Thabo ‘Mapetla’ Ntirang will always be remembered for his talent, passion, and the indelible mark he left on Botswana’s music scene.

In a past episode, PODICAST Episode 7 delved into the influence of Mapetla, a prominent figure in Botswana’s music scene. The episode explored his contributions, from chart-topping hits to his cultural significance, shedding light on his enduring legacy within the country’s vibrant music landscape.

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Spotlight on Africa Youth Entrepreneurs Summit 2024: Championing digital Innovation in the Creative Economy

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The creative pulse of Africa beats stronger than ever, resonating through the halls of the Africa Youth Entrepreneurs Summit 2024. This year’s installment, aptly themed “Advancing Creative Industries in the Digital Economy,” has ignited fervent discussions, sparked innovation, and fostered connections among Africa’s leading creative entrepreneurs.

Hosted under the banner of the “Creative Edition,” the summit stands as a testament to Africa’s burgeoning creative economy, showcasing the remarkable talents and ingenuity emanating from the continent. From fashion mavens to intellectual property consultants, poets to filmmakers, the lineup of speakers reflects the diverse tapestry of creative expression thriving across Africa.

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The summit’s focus on the digital transformation of creative industries underscores the seismic shifts reshaping the global landscape. In an interconnected world, the internet has become a catalyst for change, collapsing geographical barriers and amplifying the reach of creative endeavors. From Botswana to beyond, creatives are leveraging digital platforms to showcase their talents, forge collaborations, and tap into new markets.

At the heart of the summit lies a commitment to empower creatives to navigate this digital frontier with confidence and acumen. Through a series of insightful panel discussions, keynote speeches, and interactive workshops, participants glean practical insights into monetization strategies, brand building, and the protection of intellectual property rights.

The summit serves as a beacon of inspiration, illuminating pathways for creative entrepreneurs to thrive amidst the evolving landscape of the digital economy. It champions a culture of innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning, equipping participants with the tools and knowledge needed to carve out their niche in the competitive creative arena.

Beyond the exchange of ideas, the summit fosters a spirit of community and camaraderie among attendees. It provides a platform for networking and mentorship, where seasoned professionals and emerging talents converge to share experiences, forge partnerships, and chart a collective course toward success.

As the curtains draw on another remarkable day at the Africa Youth Entrepreneurs Summit 2024, the echoes of creativity reverberate far and wide. From the vibrant streets of Botswana to the bustling markets of Africa and beyond, the summit leaves an indelible imprint on the fabric of the creative landscape, inspiring a new generation of trailblazers to chart their own course and leave their mark on the world.

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In a world where ideas transcend borders and innovation knows no bounds, the Africa Youth Entrepreneurs Summit stands as a beacon of hope and possibility, igniting the flames of creativity and ushering in a new era of prosperity for Africa’s creative visionaries.

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