Botswana’s newly elected Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng, has made bold promises to reshape the country’s sports and arts landscape. In his first address after being appointed to the post, Kelebeng emphasized his commitment to revitalizing school sports and reinvigorating the arts sector, both of which have faced significant challenges in recent years.
Reviving School Sports
Kelebeng highlighted the importance of school sports in nurturing talent and promoting physical well-being among the youth. He acknowledged that the lack of organized sports programs in schools has limited the potential of young athletes, many of whom are unaware of the opportunities available to them in national and international arenas. The Minister pledged to collaborate with educational institutions to reintroduce and strengthen sports programs across the country.
In his vision, school sports will not only serve as a platform for talent identification but also as a tool to promote teamwork, discipline, and healthy lifestyles. “Sport is more than just competition; it’s about building character and giving our youth the skills and mindset they need to succeed in life,” said Kelebeng.
Reviving the Arts
Equally as important to Kelebeng is the revival of the arts. Botswana’s creative industries, particularly in the realms of music, theatre, and visual arts, have suffered due to limited funding and support. The Minister vowed to address these issues by advocating for more resources, creating platforms for local artists, and fostering greater collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Kelebeng emphasized that the arts play a vital role in preserving Botswana’s cultural heritage and identity while offering economic opportunities for creators. His goal is to position the arts as a key driver of economic growth and tourism. “The arts are a powerful tool for national unity, creativity, and job creation. I will work tirelessly to ensure our artists have the support they need to thrive,” he added.
A Bright Future Ahead
The Minister’s plan to bring back school sports and revive the arts is expected to have a long-term positive impact on Botswana’s society. By investing in these areas, Kelebeng is laying the foundation for a healthier, more vibrant future where young people are equipped with the skills and opportunities to succeed both in sports and the creative industries.
As the country moves forward, all eyes will be on Kelebeng’s ability to deliver on these promises and transform Botswana’s sports and arts landscape into one that thrives on both local and global stages.
