As the festive season approaches, local artists and event MCs are voicing frustrations over what they describe as exploitation by event promoters.
Speaking to The Midweek Sun, many lamented being taken for granted, with some resorting to performing for free in a desperate bid to gain exposure and make a name for themselves in the competitive entertainment industry.
Recently, gospel artist Onalenna Keitseope, popularly known as 'Ounah,' aired his grievances on Facebook, lamenting the lack of support for local artists.
He expressed frustration over being overlooked and unsupported by event organisers. Despite offering to perform for free at a recent event celebrating the inauguration of President Boko, the gospel artist revealed that he struggled to secure even fuel money to return home.
“Attempts to seek assistance from an Assistant Minister and the event organiser were unsuccessful, with the line-up reportedly finalised and paid artists already selected,” he said.
Stranded in Gaborone, the artist had to borrow money to travel back to Letlhakane. MC Onalenna Radilwana, based in Kanye, shared similar frustrations.
Having worked as an MC for several years, she noted that many event promoters often fail to honour payment promises.
“They promise to pay after the event, but most of the time, it never happens,” she said. Radilwana also highlighted the frequent preference for radio DJs to host events, a practice she deems unfair.
“These radio DJs are often paid more money, despite contributing less to events. They show up, greet the crowd, and leave within 30 minutes,” she said, adding that professional MCs, who dedicate hours to engaging with the audience, are sometimes paid as little as P1,000 to host an entire evening.
For artists, the situation is often worse. Reports of promoters demanding sexual favours in exchange for a spot on the performance line-up have surfaced.
Traditional music artist Mmaratwa revealed that some promoters demand sexual favours to secure one a place in the line-up. “Those who refuse are either excluded or forced to perform for free, even
after traveling long distances,” she said.
“This is the reality for many artists. We pour our hearts into our work, but instead of being recognised, some are exploited or ignored,” Mmaratwa added.
As the season of festivities draws nearer, artists and MCs are calling for more ethical practices from event promoters, fair compensation for their talent, and an end to exploitative behaviours that undermine the entertainment industry.
“I urge all women in the entertainment industry not to fall for such schemes. We must stand together and demand respect and fairness,” Mmaratwa said.
Speaking to The Midweek Sun, many lamented being taken for granted, with some resorting to performing for free in a desperate bid to gain exposure and make a name for themselves in the competitive entertainment industry.
Recently, gospel artist Onalenna Keitseope, popularly known as 'Ounah,' aired his grievances on Facebook, lamenting the lack of support for local artists.
He expressed frustration over being overlooked and unsupported by event organisers. Despite offering to perform for free at a recent event celebrating the inauguration of President Boko, the gospel artist revealed that he struggled to secure even fuel money to return home.
“Attempts to seek assistance from an Assistant Minister and the event organiser were unsuccessful, with the line-up reportedly finalised and paid artists already selected,” he said.
Stranded in Gaborone, the artist had to borrow money to travel back to Letlhakane. MC Onalenna Radilwana, based in Kanye, shared similar frustrations.
Having worked as an MC for several years, she noted that many event promoters often fail to honour payment promises.
“They promise to pay after the event, but most of the time, it never happens,” she said. Radilwana also highlighted the frequent preference for radio DJs to host events, a practice she deems unfair.
“These radio DJs are often paid more money, despite contributing less to events. They show up, greet the crowd, and leave within 30 minutes,” she said, adding that professional MCs, who dedicate hours to engaging with the audience, are sometimes paid as little as P1,000 to host an entire evening.
For artists, the situation is often worse. Reports of promoters demanding sexual favours in exchange for a spot on the performance line-up have surfaced.
Traditional music artist Mmaratwa revealed that some promoters demand sexual favours to secure one a place in the line-up. “Those who refuse are either excluded or forced to perform for free, even
after traveling long distances,” she said.
“This is the reality for many artists. We pour our hearts into our work, but instead of being recognised, some are exploited or ignored,” Mmaratwa added.
As the season of festivities draws nearer, artists and MCs are calling for more ethical practices from event promoters, fair compensation for their talent, and an end to exploitative behaviours that undermine the entertainment industry.
“I urge all women in the entertainment industry not to fall for such schemes. We must stand together and demand respect and fairness,” Mmaratwa said.
