There is local content on the national broadcaster, but this is not very diverse or
creative, especially on BTV. The state television service has a budget of P2 million
to procure local content, but this is not sufficient and would only pay for two
24-minute programmes, and not, for example, a 13-episode local series.
“BTV expects quality production from local producers, but the budget is too small
for this. If BTV wants quality local productions, the budget for this has to be
increased.”
It is argued that BTV “was always meant to be a political mouthpiece of the ruling
party, for its own political gain”, and that even if local producers find their own
funding, BTV is still reluctant to air the programmes.
“BTV would rather broadcast France 24, than a local production during ‘dead time’
after it ends broadcasting for the day – mostly from 11pm.”

Scores:
Individual scores:
1

Country does not meet indicator

2

Country meets only a few aspects of indicator

3

Country meets some aspects of indicator

4

Country meets most aspects of indicator.

5

Country meets all aspects of the indicator

Average score:

1.4 (2005 = 2.7; 2007 = 3.1; 2009 = 1.4)

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BOTSWANA 2011

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