Creative sector, MICE engage on AI’s role
Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | Monday March 17, 2025 10:55
South Africa’s unemployment rate recently decreased by 1.4 percent, offering some relief, but challenges remain, particularly as AI automates tasks once performed by humans. The implications of this shift were a key focus at the recent Meetings Africa 2025 event held in Johannesburg, where industry leaders discussed how AI can enhance human creativity rather than replace it.
Botswana, like many countries, is also experiencing the influence of AI in various sectors. Whilst AI has the potential to improve efficiency, concerns remain about job displacement, particularly in industries that rely on human creativity.
Eugene Allotey, founder of Creative Bibini, emphasised that AI should be seen as a tool rather than a threat.
“AI is not a monster that will take over our jobs, rather, it is a tool that can improve our services and make our work more efficient. “There will always be a human factor in the MICE industry. “AI should be used to enhance efficiency, not eliminate the personal connections that define our industry,” he said.
The demand for AI-related skills has increased by 94% in the past three years, making it essential for workers to adapt to new technologies. In Botswana, businesses and creative professionals are gradually exploring AI’s potential. Whilst AI can perform repetitive tasks, its real value lies in complementing human creativity, analysts say.
AI-powered tools assist in brainstorming, content creation, and design processes, helping creatives refine their work more efficiently.
“AI has been a game-changer, helping me plan, manage time, and streamline workflows. It’s the future, and we embrace it to stay ahead in the industry,” said Tracey Cronje of Event Assist, South Africa.
This shift is already being seen in Botswana’s media, marketing, and design industries, where AI-powered applications are being used to enhance efficiency.
Beyond improving productivity, AI also accelerates innovation by enabling rapid prototyping and testing. By generating multiple design models and simulations, AI allows creatives to refine their work in real time. However, ethical concerns remain a key discussion point, particularly regarding the ownership of AI-generated content and the potential biases present in AI algorithms.
“If you want to do advocacy properly towards stakeholders, you need the data to demonstrate the impact of our industry,” said Sven Bossu, CEO of the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC). The same principle applies to Botswana’s creative industry, decisions regarding AI’s adoption should be data-driven and considerate of its impact on jobs and intellectual property rights.
AI’s growing influence highlights the need for responsible use, particularly in Botswana’s developing creative sector. Whilst AI can enhance efficiency, ethical frameworks must be established to prevent exploitation and ensure fair distribution of opportunities. As AI continues to evolve, collaboration between technology and human creativity will be crucial in maintaining innovation whilst safeguarding employment.
For Botswana’s creative professionals, the challenge lies in embracing AI’s advantages whilst ensuring that human talent remains central to the industry. By developing policies that guide AI’s ethical use, Botswana can benefit from technology without compromising job opportunities or creative integrity.