Gaborone — Botswana's creative sector will play a central role in the country's 60th Independence celebrations, with government setting aside P23 million for the Diamond Jubilee programme that will celebrate the nation's cultural, artistic and sporting achievements.

Addressing a media briefing in Gaborone yesterday, Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng said this year's Independence celebrations would provide opportunities for the creative sector to participate and benefit from the national programme.

He said artistes, musicians, actors, fashion designers, cultural groups, visual artists and other creative practitioners would all be included in activities leading up to and during the celebrations.

Mr Kelebeng said districts would also be given an opportunity to celebrate the national arts in theiR unique ways, allowing communities across the country to showcase their creativity, culture and heritage.

Follow us on WhatsApp | LinkedIn for the latest headlines

He said heritage and historical exhibitions would form part of the activities as Botswana reflects on its journey over the past 60 years.

The minister said the celebrations would also feature a wide range of activities, including sporting events, church services, fashion showcases and cultural performances.

He said while the National Stadium would be used during the celebrations, activities at the venue, would be limited in order to preserve the athletics track.

The main Independence celebrations will be held at the Main Mall on September 30, with a fireworks display expected to mark the occasion.

Mr Kelebeng also appealed to the private sector, organisations and individual citizens to support the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, saying national commemorations require collective participation and partnership.

BOPA