Social- economic inequality worsens

While its contribution to Botswana’s Gross Domestic Product ( GDP) has not been quantified, the Arts and Culture sector is recognized by the Government of Botswana as a key vehicle towards youth empowerment and sustainable economic development, says the researchers.

The sector, the researchers explain, also has social and intrinsic value in that it promotes national identity and heritage; and lends dynamism to the tourism industry. As the COVID - 19 lockdowns intensified, artists found themselves out of work. They had no events at which to perform. They had nowhere to sell their crafts.

“The COVID - 19 outbreak also resulted with the closure of gyms, stadia, pools and playgrounds. Athletes, mainly youth, found themselves in limbo as all sporting activities were cancelled. This has had an impact not only on the fans, but significantly on those who depend on sports for their livelihoods. As the situation became drastic, the Government of Botswana announced a P70 million fund meant to cushion athletes and creatives from the rigorous of COVID- 19.”

One of the strategies employed by Botswana to contain the spread of COVID- 19 was restriction of movement through intermittent lockdowns and while they were impactful in containing the virus and aiding contact tracing, lockdowns had a debilitating impact on the lives of people, especially the poorest in society, argues the researchers.