MINISTER LAUDS COUNTRY’S ENTERTAINMENT SECTOR

MBABANE – Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, has hailed the sector for its resounding success, noting significant advancements in festivals, competitions and international participation over the past year. The minister said that from local celebrations to national and regional awards, the sector has flourished, bringing both recognition and lucrative opportunities to the creative community. “There is room for improvement in the sector, but we are proud of the growth we have witnessed. We are particularly excited about the development of pageants and are closely monitoring these through the Eswatini Pageants Association,” he said.
Nzima also said that a key highlight has been the growing involvement of the private sector in sponsorships, with hopes for even greater participation in the year.

Optimism

The minister expressed optimism about the increasing attendance at events, which underscores the effectiveness of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach in the entertainment sector. “While we have achieved much over the past year, it is imperative that we ensure fair compensation for practitioners in this field. Creatives must benefit from their work and we are committed to enforcing Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) to facilitate this. We are grateful for the support we have received from the ministries of ICT and Commerce in establishing a collection society for royalties.

Our primary goal for 2025 is to successfully licence copyrights which will greatly benefit the sector,” the minister said. The minister’s call to action resonates with many who recognise the potential of the entertainment sector to drive economic growth and cultural exchange. With the right support and investment, Eswatini can continue to nurture its artistic talent and enhance its cultural presence internationally. During the recent Miss Eswatini prize presentation, the minister underscored the importance of corporate backing as a crucial element in the success of pageants. He highlighted the profound impact that corporate involvement can have on national initiatives like the Miss Eswatini Pageant.
“Corporate support is vital for the success of national initiatives. I urge businesses and organisations to collaborate with us in creating opportunities for our youth. Pageants are not merely about beauty, but they represent character, leadership and the values of our nation on the global stage. By supporting pageantry, you are investing in the future of Eswatini’s cultural ambassadors, women who carry our stories, aspirations and pride beyond our borders,” he said.

Thriving

As we move forward, the commitment to fostering a thriving entertainment industry will not only provide opportunities for artists but will also enrich the cultural fabric of the nation. It is essential for both the public and private sectors to unite in this endeavour, ensuring that the vibrant creative community of Eswatini receives the recognition and support it truly deserves. By joining forces with corporate entities, the nation can pave the way for a more prosperous and culturally rich future, one that celebrates and uplifts its creative talents.

Post your comment

Your name:

Your e-mail address:

Add your comments:

Please enter the code you see in the image:

Image:

Code: