MICAF takes off
The inaugural Makgabaneng International Creative Arts Festival ( MICAF) is pencilled to take place from Friday to Sunday ( August 5th- 7th). MICAF seeks to create a platform for the creative sector to engage, network and receive industry insights on how to monetize their talents and crafts. The event is held under the theme: ‘ The Creative Space as a Business, Understanding and Monetizing your Craft.’
The event will have a number of highlights that will include the launch on Friday, and a Masterclass facilitated by actress, Lusanda
Mbane, renowned Film producer and director, Pascar Proctor, Media Studies Professor, Professor Douglas Newell and David Moepeng from Cybersmart Botswana. All the events under the Master- classes are tailor made to address key issues of the industry that creatives need to be informed about. A panel discussion will also take place on the same day.
Still on Friday, there will be exhibitions showcasing various products in the creative industries.
On Saturday, the Boutique Music Festival will celebrate local music, featuring international and local
artists that include Vee, Ditiro Leero, Master KG, Pabi Cooper, Dj La Timmy, Dr Vom, Gander Ganda, Chef Gustos, Scavenja, and many more. Tickets for the event are going for P150 ( standard), and P250 ( double), while the VIP ticket is P750. On the last day of the event, participants will be treated to a Women in Business seminar, and a Gala Dinner to close off the festival. Tickets for the Gala Dinner are P1250.
According to the MICAF Executive Director, Tony Buru, the objective of the event is to create
an understanding of the creative industries, as the diversifying tool for Botswana economy and its impact in development.
He also said that the different activities that will take place would also help to develop the industries by unearthing and nurturing talents, igniting interests for development of the industries so as to reach international standards for the global markets.
“MICAF also seeks to help the creative industries with access to funding platforms and attracting funding opportunities for their craft, subsequently creating a platform for collaborations. Finally, we are proud of our talent and want to brand and stamp our authenticity on our products,” he said.
MICAF Marketing and PR Director, Obonye Malope, confirmed that the event will be held annually.
“We expect to realize a direct benefit not only to our creative industries, but also to the economy of Botswana.
In addition, we will be able to contribute to branding our beautiful country as the home of talent,” she said. *