WE’RE DOOMED: AN MC’S COVID-19 TEARS
There’s not a single confirmed case of COVID-19 in Botswana, but the effects of the coronavirus pandemic are already being felt by businesses and individuals alike.
The entertainment industry in particular has been the hardest hit, with night clubs and bars ordered to close, and no festivals allowed to take place in the foreseeable future.
For bartenders, DJS, promoters and masters of ceremonies who are mostly used to money coming in every weekend, this indefinite dry season spells doom.
“It is a nightmare,” said Dineo Keoreng, an up and coming MC and Events Promoter. Known generally as MC Mis D, the 31-year-old promoter is among the many individuals hard hit by the cancellations of events in the country and beyond borders.
“If you take a moment and think about the many bartenders, club DJS and people like myself who make money through events coordination and emceeing, you’ll realise just how much this COVID-19 has affected the industry,” she said.
“How are we going to pay rent? These bartenders have kids to feed,” she lamented.
The fast-rising MC in Francistown says she had to watch helplessly as over five of her bookings came to naught.
“I was scheduled to MC the Organised Family Tour in Katimamulilo-namibia in April, but it has since been postponed to July,” said Keoreng.
The energetic “hype lady” said she also had to postpone another event in Bulawayo slated for 18th April at BAC, featuring local DJS Cue and Cheng .
“This would have been the first ever event organised by Mis D Promotions under Keoreng Investments.
“I’m yet to set a new date for the Bulawayo gig. My worry, however, is that when this COVID-19 pandemic blows over, there’s going to be congestion. There’ll be too many events at the same time, and budgets would have doubled by then,” cried Keoreng.
Mis D, however, urged her colleagues in the industry to stand firm and use this time to refresh, hone their skills and observe all the health tips to help stop the virus from spreading.
“My focus right now is growing this brand. It’s a pity this virus struck just as I was about to venture into SADC, but I’m certain more opportunities will come,” she said.
Having emceed some of the biggest events such as Toropo Ya Muka, Goledzwa, TRL Soul Sundays, African Attire on Fleek, Orapa Spring Fest, Bulawayo Train Party and many others, Mis D feels the time is right for her to take even bigger events, including corporate events.
“I’ve worked with reputable companies such as Engen, Alexander Forbes, Mascom, KBL, and recently with Star Lite in their promotion of their locally-made mayonnaise,” she said.
“So, basically, I’m the go-to girl for almost everything. If you need promo-girls for your events, I’ve got you covered,” added a giggly Mis D.