Yesterday morning, the Ministry of Sport and Arts (MoSA) officially welcomed the new National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB) Board and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), marking a strategic “new dawn” for the country’s arts sector. The event set the stage for renewed focus on developing Botswana’s creative economy and enhancing the reach and impact of the nation’s artistic talent.
Permanent Secretary Ms. Nancy Neo Chengeta emphasized that the new Board should evaluate the current state of the arts industry and chart a clear path forward aligned with the Ministry’s vision. She called on the leadership to identify key opportunities and implement strategies that will strengthen the sector, improve governance, and drive measurable results for artists and communities across Botswana.
Board Chairperson Mr. Prince Monna committed to a “formidable scrum” approach, underlining the Board’s dedication to serving the public through impactful and accountable initiatives. His leadership aims to ensure that strategic decisions are efficiently executed, while maintaining transparency and inclusivity in all NACB operations.
Honourable Minister Jacob Kelebeng urged the Board to act decisively in the public interest. He emphasized the need to expedite industry regulations, commercialize facilities, and develop sustainable revenue streams, especially in the current financial climate. The Minister also expressed gratitude to the previous Board for their service, noting that the foundation they built provides a strong platform for future growth.
NACB CEO Mr. Gaokgakala Lemmenyane described the new leadership as ushering in a “new era” for Botswana’s arts sector. He highlighted a focus on commercializing the industry, exploring innovative fundraising strategies, and promoting Botswana’s talent on global platforms. Mr. Lemmenyane’s vision includes increasing investment in local creatives while expanding opportunities for international exposure.
The new Board, comprising ten members with diverse expertise, is now set to steer the NACB toward achieving its mandate of transforming Botswana’s cultural landscape. The work to grow the creative economy and elevate the arts industry begins immediately, promising innovative programs, enhanced collaboration, and a stronger platform for Batswana artists to thrive.
