Africa-Press – Botswana. Botswana Online Media Association (BOMA) members have been encouraged to capitalize on the technological opportunities within the digital media ecosystem.
Speaking at engagement with BOMA in Gaborone recently, Minister for State President Mr Kabo Morwaeng emphasised the rapid change brought about by digitalization, innovation, and robust solutions that were impacting lives, highlighting the necessity for a shift in the way things were done.
He urged the youth to make use of the various media platforms available and tap into the global creative economy, which is largely untapped in Africa.
Mr Morwaeng stressed the importance of participating in the digital space not only to showcase creative work globally but also to potentially make a career out of it.
Therefore, he said there was a need for initiatives that not only impact Botswana but the entire African continent.
The Minister highlighted the need for a mindset change in response to the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) to thrive in this digital era.
He pointed out that digital platforms offer a blueprint to shape the future of the digital information dissemination landscape and emphasised the immediate need to kickstart technological entrepreneurial pursuits among the youth and the nation as a whole.
Mr Morwaeng underlined the government’s commitment to digitalization as a priority, exemplified by the launch of the Smart Botswana (SmartBots) Strategy last year.
“This strategy aims to leverage the opportunities presented by the 4IR to transition Botswana towards a Knowledge-Based Economy,” he said
On another note, Mr Morwaeng acknowledged the crucial role of online media in today’s interconnected world, stressing the importance of nurturing a new generation of content creators to reach a global audience easily.
Moreover, Minister Morwaeng meeting with BOMA highlighted their significance in the country’s development agenda.
This consultation platform , he said served to facilitate dialogue on government policies, programs, and activities, fostering stakeholder engagement and discussions on pertinent issues.
In response, BOMA Interim Chairperson Mr Letlhogile Mpuang expressed their commitment to promoting responsible online media usage.
With over 30 online media platforms and a substantial online following, they seek recognition from the government to spearhead business growth initiatives and collaborate on public awareness campaigns.
Secretary General Mr Ketumile Ramatiti emphasised the real-time news coverage capabilities of online media, especially crucial during events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
He noted efforts to ensure ethical reporting practices within the association and highlighted the challenges faced in funding through advertisements due to some members’ non-incorporation with CIPA.
As a way forward, Mr Ramatiti called for enhanced training programmes to adapt to the dynamic online media landscape continually evolving.
Permanent Secretary, Government Communications, Ms Montlenyane Baaitse commended BOMA for their proactive stance, recognising their maturity and commitment to advancing the digital media landscape in Botswana.
For More News And Analysis About Botswana Follow Africa-Press
