The Botswana Musicians Union (BOMU), a body responsible for representing the interests of musicians, has however, been buffeted by problems such that last year the organisation even failed to hold the prestigious BOMU awards. As the New Year begins, musicians and other interested parties, especially music fans, are optimistic that the new year will bring better fortunes for the music industry. Kwasa-kwasa musician, Alfred Mosimanegape, has a gripe with the new liquor laws, which he says, have largely affected the way they do their business.
"In the new laws, we are given a permit that says you should perform only for four hours, that is from 7 pm to 12 midnight. It is unfair to expect us to make a living working four hours whilst other people in other industries are given the mandatory eight hours. We expect BOMU to engage government on this matter as it directly affects our business and lives," he said. Disunity among musicians is also affecting the music industry, observes Mosimanegape. He says that if they were united, together with BOMU, they would lobby government and other stakeholders from a stronger position. The other thorny issue that he would like BOMU to tackle is that of music products' prices like CDs, DVDs and cassettes. He complained that some musicians are selling at very low prices.
