Music Awards mesmerise on a night to remember
It was one of those nights when Batswana dressed up, sprayed on their finest fragrance, and stepped out to be seen.
Under the glittering lights of the GICC on Friday, the red carpet became a runway, with artists, industry players, dignitaries, and music lovers landing in looks that demanded second glances.
Even President Duma Boko joined the fashion conversation, stepping out in a polished youthful outfit that caught Shaya’s hard-to-please eye.
But beneath the glamour, the 14th BOMU Awards carried a more serious message: Botswana’s creative industry wants to grow, and the government says it wants to help make that happen.
It’s nothing the sector hasn’t heard a thousand times before, but, delivering the keynote address, Minister of Sports and Arts Jacob Kelebeng insisted this time was different.
“Tonight is really about our artists. To the musicians, producers, composers, performers, and everyone working behind the scenes, we see you, we value you, and we are here to celebrate you,” Kelebeng said, pointing to the P200 million Levy Fund as one of the key interventions expected to create opportunities for artists and young people.
“The President has identified the creative economy as an important driver of job creation and economic diversification. We want to see artists not only as entertainers but also as creative entrepreneurs and contributors to our economy, creating businesses, jobs, and opportunities,” he declared, words delivered on a night that showed exactly why the creative industry matters.
From the fashion to the music, the energy inside the GICC was undeniable. Performances kept the crowd on its feet, turning the awards into a celebration of Botswana’s sound and showmanship.
Kelebeng commended the Botswana Musicians Union for keeping the event alive for 14 years, noting the ceremony has become an important platform for recognising the country’s musical talent.
The Minister also promised promisedcreatives will play a prominent role in Botswana’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, with music, dance, culture, and other artistic expressions being used to tell the country’s story.
He further pledged continued efforts to strengthen the National Arts Council of Botswana and bring ministry services closer to artists and communities.
But while the government outlined its vision, BOMU President Gloria Dzwikiti reminded authorities the industry needs sustained investment if that vision is to become reality.
“We sincerely appreciate the government’s continued recognition and support of the arts and the creative industry. Tonight, we celebrate not only music but also the resilience, creativity, and determination of our artists,” Dzwikiti said.
She acknowledged the economic pressures facing the country but warned that cutting back on investment in the arts could come at a greater cost.
“We therefore respectfully rally the government to continue investing in our creative industries, because supporting artists is investing in jobs, youth, culture, tourism, national identity, and economic diversification,” she said.
Kelebeng also challenged artists to take greater responsibility for building a professional and sustainable industry, urging them to honour contracts, protect their intellectual property, embrace technology and establish partnerships capable of taking Botswana’s creative products beyond its borders.
If Friday night was anything to go by, Botswana’s creative industry already has plenty of raw material to work with.
There was talent on stage, style on the floor, and an audience willing to celebrate both.
By the time the winners were announced, the night had delivered everything an awards ceremony promises: anticipation, glamour, applause, surprises, and performances that electrified the room—not to mention an appearance on stage by Yours Truly to deliver an award!
BOMU Awards top 6 winners
Best Male: Big T
Best female: Issa Sissdoh
Best Newcomer: Tefo Bright
Album of the Year: Dada Kavino with ‘Sebaga’
Most Viral Song: DM Guys with ‘Percentage tse di wrong’
Song of the year: DM Guys with ‘Tobetsa Pina eo’
