The Minister of Sport and Arts participated in the groundbreaking ceremony of the Jwaneng Arts and Craft Centre on Friday morning, marking a major step in expanding creative industry infrastructure in the region. The event signaled the beginning of a project designed to strengthen cultural development and support local talent. The facility is expected to serve a population of more than 32 000 people, creating new opportunities for artistic expression and economic participation. Stakeholders present highlighted the importance of investing in spaces that nurture creativity and build sustainable livelihoods. The ceremony reflected a shared commitment to developing the arts sector as a key driver of youth empowerment and community growth.
The project has been made possible through generous support from Debswana, specifically the Jwaneng mine, which continues to play a significant role in community development initiatives. The collaboration between government and the private sector demonstrates a practical approach to addressing local development needs. The arts and craft centre will provide infrastructure that supports training, production and market access for creative entrepreneurs. It will also help bridge the gap between informal artistic activity and structured enterprise development. With this support, the project is positioned to become a central hub for cultural innovation in the area.
A key focus of the Jwaneng Arts and Craft Centre is the development of enterprises through targeted capacity building programmes. These programmes are designed to empower young people, women and people living with disabilities by equipping them with practical skills in the creative and cultural industries. The initiative aims to promote self employment and reduce dependency by enabling participants to turn their talents into sustainable income streams. Training is expected to cover areas such as craft production, design development, business management and market readiness. The centre will also encourage collaboration among creatives to strengthen product quality and expand business opportunities.
Jwaneng Arts and Craft Centre is expected to play a long term role in strengthening the local economy by building a structured environment for creative growth. The facility will provide space for exhibitions, workshops and commercial activities that connect artisans to wider markets. Its design focuses on inclusivity, ensuring that all community members have access to resources and opportunities regardless of background or ability. The project timeline sets the expected delivery date for September 2026, giving stakeholders a clear framework for implementation and monitoring progress. As construction advances, the centre is anticipated to become a landmark for cultural preservation and economic transformation in the region.
