The National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB) has announced the appointment of Ms. Otsetswe Koboyankwe as its Acting Chief Executive Officer. The announcement, made on November 26, 2024, entrusts Ms. Koboyankwe, a distinguished legal expert with a rich tapestry of international experience, with the helm of its operations during a crucial transitional phase. This appointment not only underscores the council’s commitment to strategic leadership but also highlights its ambition to invigorate Botswana’s vibrant cultural scene.
Ms. Koboyankwe’s appointment is a testament to her extensive legal career and her profound understanding of governance and policy. With a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Botswana, an LLM in Rule of Law for Development from Loyola University Chicago, and an Advanced Master in Air and Space Law from Leiden University, she brings a wealth of academic and practical knowledge to the NACB. Her experience as a Legal Counsel and Board Secretary since December 2023 has been marked by a commitment to excellence and ethical leadership, qualities that are expected to drive the NACB towards new heights.
Before her role at the NACB, Ms. Koboyankwe had an illustrious career, notably serving as a Senior Legislative Drafter at Botswana’s Attorney General’s Chambers. Her work in this capacity involved representing Botswana in various international forums, including the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), where she played a crucial role in advancing the nation’s aviation policies.
Her leadership capabilities are further underscored by her participation in global leadership programs, such as those at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Policy in Singapore. These programs have honed her strategic vision and equipped her with the skills necessary to lead complex organizations through challenging transitions. This background is particularly relevant as the NACB embarks on ambitious projects aimed at promoting cultural exchange and heritage preservation.
The National Arts Council of Botswana, established under the Ministry of Sport and Arts, has been pivotal in fostering artistic excellence and cultural development across the nation. Its recent projects include a Memorandum of Understanding with international counterparts to facilitate cultural exchanges and preserve indigenous arts. These initiatives are crucial in ensuring that Botswana’s rich cultural heritage continues to thrive in a rapidly globalizing world.
As the Acting CEO, Ms. Koboyankwe is expected to focus on strengthening these initiatives, ensuring that they align with Botswana’s broader cultural policies. These policies emphasize the importance of integrating traditional cultural values with contemporary artistic expressions, thereby creating a dynamic and inclusive cultural ecosystem.
The appointment comes at a time when the arts sector in Botswana is gaining momentum, with increased governmental support and international collaborations. The Ministry of Sport and Arts has been proactive in promoting arts and culture as vital components of national development, recognizing their role in enhancing social cohesion and national identity.
Ms. Koboyankwe’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the NACB through this period of growth and transformation. Her strategic approach, coupled with her deep appreciation for Botswana’s cultural nuances, positions her as a visionary leader capable of steering the council towards fulfilling its mission of promoting artistic excellence and cultural vitality.
In announcing her appointment, the NACB Board expressed confidence in Ms. Koboyankwe’s ability to lead with integrity and innovation. The Board has also initiated the process of appointing a permanent CEO, a decision that will be made in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Arts. This move reflects the council’s commitment to ensuring continuity and sustained leadership excellence.
As Botswana continues to assert its cultural identity on the global stage, the leadership of the NACB under Ms. Koboyankwe will be instrumental in harnessing the power of the arts to foster national pride and international recognition. Her appointment is a promising development for the country’s creative industries, signaling a new era of cultural dynamism and artistic innovation.
