BOMU president stresses the music industry's economic potential

Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Wednesday February 25, 2026 06:25

Speaking at the at the launch of the 14th Annual BOMU Music Awards, Rakhudu declared that Botswana's music is not just art but has a business, innovation, employment, and economic potential. He noted that the creative economy is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, generating revenue through streaming, publishing, live performance, brand partnerships, licensing, and digital content creation.

Rakhudu also emphasised that digital transformation has changed the rules of the game, allowing young artists in Gaborone to release a song and reach the world instantly. However, he stressed that access alone is not enough and that artists need to be equipped with digital skills, business knowledge, data literacy, and ownership structures that protect their intellectual property.

The BOMU President also highlighted the importance of recognising the creative sector as a serious contributor to GDP, stating that talent is renewable, creativity is sustainable, and intellectual property is exportable. He urged the government to invest in music infrastructure, training, and policy reform to drive long-term economic resilience.

On other issues, Rakhudu also addressed the issue of youth unemployment, saying that young people lack structured opportunities, access to markets, mentorship, and capital. He noted that the music industry can absorb producers, sound engineers, graphic designers, marketers, event managers, digital strategists, stylists, videographers, and tech developers, and that one successful artist can create an ecosystem of jobs.

In a separate speech, Patrick Matlapeng, COSBOTS Manager - Documentation and Distribution, emphasized the economic power of music, saying that it is an asset that can generate wealth, create employment, and drive sustainable development. He highlighted the importance of copyright protection, licensing, and fair remuneration structures to ensure that creators benefit financially from their works.

Matlapeng also stressed that monetizing music is not only about individual creators but about community empowerment. He noted that when music-based content generates income, authors earn royalties, performers receive licensing fees, and music becomes both a cultural anchor and an economic ladder.

The BOMU Music Awards are not just about trophies but about standards, recognition, and building an industry that is organised, professional, and globally competitive. The event aims to signal a new chapter in the music industry, where music is treated as a strategic economic pillar, digital transformation is embraced, and youth are empowered to turn creativity into sustainable livelihoods.

The launch of the BOMU Music Awards has brought together industry stakeholders, artists, and music enthusiasts to celebrate the country's rich musical heritage and explore ways to harness its economic potential. As the music industry continues to evolve, it is clear that Botswana's music scene has the potential to become a significant contributor to the country's economy.

The event has also highlighted the need for collaboration between the government, private sector, and music industry stakeholders to create a conducive environment for music to thrive. With the right support and infrastructure, Botswana's music industry can become a major player in the global music scene, creating jobs, generating revenue, and promoting cultural exchange.

Furthermore, the music industry can also play a significant role in promoting Botswana's culture and tourism. The country's rich musical heritage can be showcased internationally, attracting tourists and promoting cultural exchange. This can also create opportunities for local artists to collaborate with international artists, further boosting the industry.

In essence, the organisation notes that the music industry has the potential to be a significant contributor to Botswana's economy, and stakeholders must work together to create a conducive environment for the industry to thrive. With the right support and infrastructure, Botswana's music scene can become a major player in the global music industry, creating jobs, generating revenue, and promoting cultural exchange.