Speaking at the COSBOTS Annual General Meeting in Gaborone on Saturday, Matebesi said the new sector ensures that writers and visual artists receive the recognition and compensation they deserve. He added that COSBOTS was looking forward to adding the audiovisual sector to their collection efforts, further broadening their support for the creative community. He further congratulated COSBOTS and the Botswana Musicians Union (BOMU) for laying a foundation for local creatives. "This year's hybrid event, connecting five towns shows our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring every voice is heard.
The role of a collective organisation like COSBOTS is pivotal in the creative industry. COSBOTS not only ensures that creatives receive fair compensation for their work but also advocates for their growth. By working together, this organisation and the government are creating a robust framework that supports our creative community. By partnering with the government of Botswana, COSBOTS has been a cornerstone in enhancing the royalty collection and its distribution. Our efforts have ensured that your hard work and creativity are rightfully compensated.
Our efforts have borne fruit and I am confident that together, we will achieve even greater heights," he said. Furthermore, Matebesi said in their quest to support local artists, the government launched several initiatives aimed at driving digital transformation and fostering innovation. He added that the revamped Now Television offered immense opportunities for artists to showcase their talents, reach global audiences and monetise their works. He also said the MYSC was focused in investing in digital infrastructure, providing training and resources, encouraging the adoption of cutting edge technologies to create an environment where creativity could flourish. He added that their global and regional partnerships with the likes of MultiChoice demonstrated their dedication to promoting and protecting local creative works.
He explained that by forging alliances with international organisations and participating in regional and international forums like Film festival, and the Dubai Expo, they were positioning Botswana as a key player in the global creative landscape. He also said locally, they entered into agreements and collaborations that provide financial support, mentorship and platforms for artists to showcase their talents. He explained that by working closely with stakeholders across the industry, they were creating a cohesive ecosystem that nurtured creativity, fostering innovation and drove sustainable growth. He said those collaborations were vital to empowering their creators and ensuring they had the resources and support needed to succeed.
"The Ministry and the Arts Council are dedicated to further enhancing the livelihoods of our creators. We recognised that artists are the custodians of our heritage, playing a crucial role in shaping and developing our national identity. To support them, we will implement the following initiatives; funding and grants, capacity building, infrastructure development, policy support, market access and health and wellbeing," he said. For her part, COSBOTS board chairperson, Bakalanga Malikongwa, said the event marked another significant chapter in their shared journey towards fostering and protecting the creative industry. She added that artists' continued support, dedication and commitment were the cornerstones of their programmes and success. She also told their members that their involvement and engagement were what made COSBOTS strong.
She added that it was their creativity, artistry and passion that fuelled their work. "It is for you that we strive to create a thriving, consistent place where creativity can flourish and be rightfully rewarded. As we proceed on today's programme, let us reflect on our achievements, embrace the challenges ahead and most importantly renew our commitment to the values that unite us as the artists. Together we can ensure that the rights and likelihood of our creative community are safe guarded and that the arts continue to enrich the cultural value of our society," she ended.
