of information between government departments and the media. However, we are already learning that these information officers are inhibiting information sharing and seem poorly positioned to deal with issues of a sensitive nature. Local television productions Before the introduction of Botswana Television, critics lamented the cultural bombardment of the country by the South African media. After the launch of this homegrown station, sections of society lobbied for television programmes with adequate local content. During 2005, a number of innovative productions were developed, including Re Bina Mmogo, Hot Chilli and Thokolosi. These dramas are expected to bolster Batswana’s self-belief, pride and confidence as envisaged in the National Vision Project. However, concerns have been raised about the quality of some local dramas. Media diversity While a new tabloid, Echo, was established early in 2005, interesting developments unfolded within radio and television as well. The National Broadcasting Board (NBB) is set to issue three new licenses in addition to the two held by Yarona FM and Gabz FM. But this liberalisation of the airwaves has been attacked by existing commercial radio stations on the grounds that the new stations will crowd out the broadcasting sector. Another criticism is that the two commercial radio stations broadcast only around Gaborone, whereas the forthcoming three will be licensed to broadcast nationally. The NBB is expected in 2006 to award a broadcasting licence to new satellite television station Black Earth Communications (BEC). BEC promises to offer customers lower fees than those charged by the current South African-based monopoly, Multichoice. Media associations In February 2005, the Botswana Media Workers’ Union (BOMEWU) was formed to protect the industrial, social and intellectual interests of media workers and to help develop the media. It has not yet produced the desired impact, and has yet to elect an executive committee and establish a formal office. The organisation Journalists against HIV-AIDS in Botswana (JAHABO) was registered in May 2005. JAHABO aims to show that, besides just writing about HIV-AIDS, journalists are committed to addressing the disease in partnership with other stakeholders. The Botswana Media Women’s Association (BOMWA) was formed in July 2003 to confront issues faced by women media workers, and respond to other gender equality concerns. In 2005, however, it faced capacity constraints and failed to hold its annual general meeting to elect an executive committee. Thus, it became inactive before achieving even its basic goals. Conclusion Although enormous challenges need to be addressed before the media can become a potent tool for democratic empowerment, development and human rights in Botswana, legislative and policy frameworks do provide an opportunity for turn-around in the media industry. However, media professionals need to embark on a massive capacity building exercise if this media renaissance is to materialise. The leadership required for this transformation must be highly disciplined, committed and visionary. So This Is Democracy? 2005 -40- Media Institute of Southern Africa