Botswana entertainment promoters dispute minister's 24-hour economy success claim

The Botswana Entertainment Promoters Association BEPA, along with allied industry bodies, has strongly refuted the Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Tiroeaone Ntsima's, declaration that the Easter Holidays pilot for the 24-hour economy was a success. BEPA states that the minister's assertion lacks credible, verifiable, or independently assessed data and contradicts the realities experienced by the creative and entertainment sectors. The association argues that extending bar operating hours from 6 PM to 6 AM has negatively impacted event-based enterprises, as patrons now prefer bars where entertainment is often free, undermining ticket sales and production investments for structured performances. BEPA also highlighted public safety concerns, citing a Botswana Police Service report indicating a 63% surge in violent crimes during the Easter holidays. The association criticizes the government's narrow understanding of a 24-hour economy, emphasizing that it requires a coordinated, multi-sectoral system including effective law enforcement, not just extended alcohol trading hours. BEPA has called for the immediate release of supporting data, suspension of further rollout, and urgent stakeholder engagements. BEPA and the Botswana Night Clubs and Bar Association have postponed a planned march to engage with the minister.