Country Project Step 3: Art and Culture. History Essay

Project step 3: Arts and Culture
Project Country: Botswana
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STEP 3: ARTS AND CULTURE
COLONIAL IMPACTS ON ARTS AND CULTURE
Media
Botswana was exposed to broadcasting in the early 1940s during the second world war. During independence, Radio Botswana was the only media in the country. It aired diverse programs, colonialist policies, current affairs and cultural practices. It played an important role in advocating for independence as it focused on constitutional development. Colonialism led to strengthening of the media as Botswana fought for independence. It also led to growth of media industry since several broadcasting media have developed including Tv stations.
Literature
Publishing of literature in Botswana began in 19th century when holy bible being published by missionaries to spread Christianity. Colonialism resulted in publication of several short stories about colonial activities and writings of Botswana culture which later strengthened literature. It also led to formation of Botswana society whose main aim was to guide the literature process, publish literary works and create awareness.
Films
The first film to be recorded in the country was between 1906 and 1907. It was a documentary about a railway trip to Victoria falls by British. During colonial area, several foreigners came and recorded many films about the cultural practices in Botswana. Locals learnt about filming and Molefi Pilane was the first to record a Botswana film. Colonial period resulted in development of cinema and movies theatres which has boosted and encouraged films and cinemas.
Festivals
During colonial period, most of the cultural events were affected due to spread of Christianity as they were deemed unholy by British missionaries. Botswana’s festivals were held in a similar manner during pre-colonial and colonial era. However, after independence, festivities changed with many smaller festivals merged to make one major and modern cultural festival which attracts tourist due to its indigenous nature. These festivals include Kuru Dance festivals, Tjilenje cultural festival, Toyota 1000 desert race among others.
Music and dance
During colonial era, Tswana music and dance was not allowed because the British considered them as hindrance to regional development and people. This greatly undermined music and dance and almost eradicated them. Since independence, music and dance has been slowly rejuvenated with Tswana music and dance given priority though popular music is from outside Botswana. Culture spears, Ditaola and Matsieng are current music and dance groups in the country.
Cuisine
Botswana’s cuisine is unique and depends on cultural events. The main and popular cultural cuisine is Seswaa which is mashed and salted meat. It is cooked in three-legged pot and prepared for special occasions. They also have traditional brewed drinks called Bojalwa ja Setswana. Colonialism led to introduction of foreign cuisines like rice which has been embrac...