NACB Hosts Shaka iLembe Masterclass to Boost Botswana’s Creative Industry

NACB Hosts Shaka iLembe Masterclass to Boost Botswana’s Creative Industry. The National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB), in partnership with MultiChoice Botswana, recently hosted a Masterclass featuring key creatives behind the acclaimed African historical drama, Shaka iLembe. The event welcomed Mr. Jacob Ntshangase, Head of Research, and Ms. Desiree Markgraaf, CEO of The Bomb Shelter Film Company, who shared their insights with Botswana’s filmmakers, writers, and storytellers.

This Masterclass is part of NACB’s ongoing efforts to build capacity and foster connections between Botswana’s creative sector and broader African cultural industries. By bringing leading figures in African film production to Botswana, NACB aims to inspire local creatives and open doors for knowledge exchange and collaboration.

The session focused on important topics including cultural representation, historical storytelling, and the challenges faced by African filmmakers. Participants engaged in discussions that highlighted the significance of telling authentic African stories and the role of film in shaping cultural dialogue across the continent.

MultiChoice Botswana’s support through its DStv platform is a key component of this initiative, providing opportunities for skills development and regional partnerships that elevate Botswana’s creative output.

NACB emphasised its commitment to nurturing Botswana’s own narratives, underlining the importance of funding and showcasing local stories. The council aims to position Botswana as a vibrant hub for cultural expression on both continental and global stages.