Botswana–Namibia Creative Economy Workshop Opens with Focus on Inclusion

Botswana–Namibia Creative Economy Workshop Opens with Focus on Inclusion. The National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB) participated in the opening of the Botswana–Namibia Creative Economy Workshop, held under the theme “Promoting Social Inclusion through the Creative Economy.”

The workshop brings together government leaders, policymakers, and creative industry stakeholders to explore strategies for strengthening the creative sector as a driver of economic growth, innovation, and social inclusion. It provides a platform for dialogue on how creative industries can be harnessed to empower communities and contribute to sustainable development.

In his remarks, Minister of Sport and Arts, Hon. Jacob Kelebeng, highlighted key initiatives advancing Botswana’s creative industries. Among these are the Cinematograph Bill and the Digital Content Hub, both designed to create opportunities and improve livelihoods for creatives. He emphasized that such frameworks are essential for positioning the creative economy as a meaningful contributor to national progress.

The workshop agenda focuses on several critical areas:Policy development to strengthen governance and support for the sector.Access to finance and digital opportunities to expand creative entrepreneurship.Social protection for artists and cultural workers.Cross-sector collaboration to build a more inclusive and sustainable creative economy.

By addressing these themes, the workshop aims to foster stronger regional cooperation between Botswana and Namibia, while ensuring that creatives are supported with the tools and policies needed to thrive.

The participation of NACB underscores Botswana’s commitment to advancing the creative economy as a platform for empowerment, inclusion, and innovation. As discussions continue, the workshop is expected to lay the groundwork for practical actions that will strengthen the creative industries across both nations.