Arts associations call for inclusivity
Goitsemodimo Kaelo | Monday April 20, 2026 06:00
In a statement released by Modiri Keseabetswe on behalf of the associations, he says the representatives of the associations reaffirmed their commitment to the growth and proper development of Botswana’s creative economy recently during a meeting NACB. However, they stressed that such progress cannot occur in an environment where structured engagement is sidelined and sector institutions are weakened.
The associations acknowledged the recent appointment of the NACB Board of Directors led by individuals from the creative sector as a positive step. He said they expressed hope that the board would signal a new era of inclusivity and accountability. Yet, they cautioned against any continuation of what they described as a legacy of disregarding organized sector voices.
Central to their statement is a demand for what they termed a “governance reset,” grounded in respect, inclusion, and meaningful participation. Emphasising the principle of “nothing for us without us,” the associations argued that the future of Botswana’s creative industry must be shaped by those actively working within it.
The coalition has called on the NACB Board to urgently reassert its oversight authority and provide clear direction to the council’s administration. According to the associations, the board carries a responsibility to ensure that the institution remains accountable to the sector it is meant to serve.
They raised particular concern over what they perceive as an increasingly exclusionary approach by the NACB administration, alleging that the Secretariat has adopted a posture that sidelines the associations from contributing to key decisions. This, they warned, is “an unacceptable posture that can only lead us backwards.”
Tensions escalated further following the recent announcement of a new strategy by the NACB Chief Executive Officer. The associations have rejected the strategy outright, describing it as having been developed and communicated without consultation or participation from the very groups that represent the organised creative sector.
“This development represents a serious breach of governance principles,” the statement noted, adding that it reflects a fundamental disregard for established industry structures. The associations argue that such actions contradict the NACB’s mandate and risk undermining its legitimacy.
As frustrations mount, the message from the sector is clear: collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect must form the foundation of any effort to advance Botswana’s creative economy. Without these, stakeholders warn, the gap between institutions and the artists they serve will continue to widen.