29 Jun 2020

The entertainment industry, like other sectors have been hard hit by COVID-19 pandemic.

Live events and entertainment were stopped so as to reduce the spread of the virus.

While other sectors are opening up, the entertainment industry is yet to start.

That being said, until the industry can turn the lights back on, the creative sector and entertainment companies will have to follow strict safety protocols to curb the spread of the virus. 

While that is the case, industry players are getting worried and have called on government to open up the entertianment industry.

 Creative director of Colours of Sound, Massie Hule has voiced his opinions on social media about reopening the industry. 

“It is getting really bad, artists are hungry and angry,” said Hule adding that the industry was suffering greatly.

Hule has gone on to state his views on how the industry can be opened which according to him could be less threat to transmitting the virus. 

In his Facebook handle, he advocated for certain aspects of the industry operating instead of collapsing the whole industry. 

He cited events like picnics, outdoor festivals, corporate conferences, balcony-based events and others as those that could be opened.

In an interview, Hule said they were ready to comply with all Covid-19 safety protocols put in place by health authorities. 

Hule stated that like all other sectors, which had opened economy and adapting to the new normal, the creative industry could have similar or better precautions as in malls, gyms and schools.

“Malls fill up, small shops and salons, restaurants are all open, buses travel in full loading capacity, schools opened with thousands of children and other government ministries are operating with many of their employees,” he stated.

Another event promoter, David Abram, who also expressed his frustrations, suggested the entertainment industry could be within zones as a way of curbing the spread of the virus.

Similarly, events promoter Godwin Sebina echoed the same sentiments, saying the industry should be open and have events, which only allow regulated numbers. 

Sebina added that they should be allowed to be creative in ways to develop safety measures with regard to their sector.

Dj La Timmy called on artistes and promoters to unite and have a better working relationship for the development of the local creative industry. 

Dj La Timmy called on Botswana Entertainment and Promoters Association to engage government and cone with a plan and way forward for the industry to open. ENDS