15 Jun 2023

Local filmmakers have been urged to ready themselves to participate in the upcoming international film festival billed for November in Gaborone.

Chief broadcasting officer in the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Gender and Culture (MYSC),   Gao Kwalate made the call when meeting filmmakers in Maun on Monday. 

She explained that the festival would be an opportunity for Botswana filmmakers to interact and network with international practitioners of the craft.

Kwalate pointed out that government wanted to see the local film and television industry develop to international standard in order for its value chain to be realised. 

She stated that government recognised the potential of the industry to create direct jobs and stimulate other sectors of the economy. 

Kwalate said it was out of this appreciation that filmmakers throughout the country were encouraged to be part of the festival.

“We have realised that Gaborone-based companies are the ones that often benefit the most from opportunities in this sector. 

This time we want filmmakers, distributors and others within the value chain throughout Botswana to participate in the festival,” she said.

Kwalate disclosed that New Capitol Cinema had come on board as a partner, and was prepared to screen Botswana films. 

She highlighted the potential for Ngamiland to be a source of rich film content given the area’s internationally acclaimed unique features as well as diverse cultures. She mentioned Tsodilo Hills, Okavango Delta, Mohembo Bridge, and the Etsha baskets as some of the potential film subjects.

Programme officer in the ministry, Eric Paulo appraised the filmmakers on the progress made since the launch of NOW TV channel, saying it had achieved a lot since its inception in 2018 to create space to empower and uplift the youth.

 He said the channel acquired 100 per cent local content, and has to date aired 148 full programmes and 23 sets of fillers procured from 213 Botswana production companies. 

He revealed that government had spent over P136 million on the content.

“This channel has achieved great milestones to grow the film and television industry and I encourage upcoming and existing film practitioners to continue showcasing unique stories from their localities,” he said.

Poetavango Spoken Word Poetry chairperson, Legodile Seganabeng noted that Botswana had a lot of potential that, if fully exploited, could catapult the local film industry to the international arena. 

He noted that there were many talented young people with good ideas which needed to be fine-tuned so that they became professional filmmakers.

“Locals need to be equipped with the right skills that will enable them to make quality productions,” he said.

Tebogo Otlwile from Love Botswana said while he appreciated government’s effort in developing the local film industry, the ministry should popularise NOW TV channel in the rural communities as it was mainly known in Gaborone.

He urged the ministry to improve its marketing strategy so gain more followers. Ends