Botswana is set to host the Intergovernmental Committee (IGC) meeting which is billed for 4th-9th December, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National Arts Council for Botswana, Shombi Ellis, announced at a media workshop held at Cresta Lodge last week.
Ellis said the main objective of the workshop was to raise awareness on the importance of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) through different platforms to the public.
She said Botswana ratified the 2003 Convention in 2010 and that the IGC is mandated to promote the objectives of the Convention and monitors the implementation thereof, adding that Botswana became a committee member of the IGC in 2020.
Furthermore, Ellis emphasised that hosting of the IGC will contribute towards the resuscitation of the economy of Botswana beyond the effects of Covid-19 and that it has envisaged that the tourism, hospitality, transport and communication sectors will greatly benefit from the week-long event.
The Convention is deemed as an opportunity to showcase Botswana culture and heritage to a globally diverse international audience of cultural experts and practitioners.
“Hosting the meeting will increase the visibility of Botswana both regionally and internationally which is key in driving efforts for the attraction of potential investors,” she highlighted.
Correspondingly, there will be a provision for local art and crafts to be exhibited as well as local preforming artists to showcase their craft on the side lines of the conference.
Enhancing the vitality, she concluded that this will ensure mutual respect for ICH among various communities and also promote social cohesion and national unity.
