The animation industry in Botswana is steadily growing, with companies like Cornhouse Animation Studios and Tshwantsha Animation Studios leading the way. Among the key players shaping this emerging sector is Learn Animation (Pty) Ltd, a company dedicated to providing essential animation education. However, despite the industry’s potential, challenges remain, and Learn Animation Botswana is calling on the government to recognize and invest in the creative sector.
According to Theo Silitshena, the 27-year-old director and lead instructor of Learn Animation, one of the biggest hurdles the company faces is spreading awareness about its services and securing funding for key projects. “Our greatest challenge is spreading the word about our services and securing funding for our projects. For example, we need funding for a master class that will help traditional artists transition to digital art,” Silitshena stated.
He emphasized that animation is not just a creative outlet but also an economic driver that can help address youth unemployment in Botswana. The industry allows artists to contribute to international projects remotely, opening up opportunities beyond the local market. “I have recently had an opportunity to work with a USA-based animation company, Studio Moyo, as an animation writer,” Silitshena shared, highlighting the global nature of the industry.
Silitshena pointed out that government support could have a transformative impact, as animation projects create multiple job opportunities, including storyboard artists, colour artists, voice actors, singers, and instrumentalists. “One animation project can employ a range of professionals, making it a powerful tool for job creation,” he explained.
Despite Botswana’s growing pool of creative talent, the lack of infrastructure and formal training programs continues to hold the industry back. “Botswana possesses tremendous potential to compete in this industry, but we need government support to develop the necessary infrastructure and training programmes,” Silitshena stressed.
As the animation industry gains traction in Botswana, Learn Animation Botswana continues to advocate for investment in creative arts. With the right support, the country could become a regional hub for animation, fostering innovation and job creation for future generations.
