08 Jan 2019

Some artists in Ngamiland have complained of being sidelined and given second class treatment compared to their peers elsewhere in the country.

The artists voiced their concerns during a recent meeting with Botswana Music Union (BOMU) leaders and other stakeholders in Maun.

They lamented lack of airplay by radio stations and television.

Others complained about producers who failed to fulfil their contractual obligations. 

They said it was frustrating that some were not available when wanted at their studios with some switching off their phones.

Hip hop artist, Seolelo Mokome, said some producers had a tendency of dictating what had to be done which often resulted in conflicts between song owners and producers.

On other issues, some artists decried discrimination during shows in the district noting that established artists from Gaborone were catered for in terms of accommodation, feeding as well as getting their dues on time while local ones were expected to cater for themselves and struggle to get their payments.

Responding to their comments, specially elected councilor who is also a veteran in music industry, Reaboka Mbulawa, revealed that he was aware of all challenges faced by artists since he had been in the industry for over 23 years.

He admitted that artists from North West were not getting the recognition they deserved, saying that for them to enjoy recognition, they needed someone who could determine terms in order for them to penetrate the industry. 

He also pointed out that lack of confidence was also a major challenge for most artists since they could not interact well with well established artists from other districts.

Mbulawa advised that formation of an association was the way to go to address all their challenges adding that the association would be their mouthpiece.

BOMU president, Pagson Ntsie, admitted that Ngamiland artists needed a voice in order to grow and advised them to work with veterans such as Mbulawa to come up with sounding proposals to attract sponsors.

He also noted that sponsors wanted commitment and quality and advised artists to pull up their socks, be business minded and produce quality products.

Ntsie also advised artists to write to Botswana television programmes manager  regarding their concerns on lack of airplay. 

They were also informed that they had the power to stop the discrimination during shows where other artists were given priority over them.  Ends