MP PROMISES ROYALTY SUPPORT FOR ARTISTS

MBABANE – Sifiso Shabalala, the Member of Parliament for Dvokodvweni, has assured artists that he will advocate for the immediate collection of royalties within parliament. This pledge was made at the recent Eswatini Arts Summit where he was engaged by Stanley Dlamini, the Chief Executive Officer of the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC). In addition to his role as a parliamentarian, Shabalala chairs the Arts and Culture Portfolio Committee, making his commitment particularly significant for local artists. During his address at the summit, Shabalala emphasised the importance of royalty payments in enhancing the status of artists in Eswatini.

He stated:  “As instructed by ENCAC, I assure artists that I will do everything necessary with my colleagues in parliament to ensure they receive their royalties". I strongly believe that the payment of royalties will boost the industry and elevate the status of artists as they will be able to earn a living through their craft.” His words reflect a growing recognition of the need for systematic support for the arts in the country. Further expressing his appreciation for ENCAC, Shabalala commended the council for hosting a successful summit aimed at educating artists about their rights and opportunities. “We often see such summits being held in neighbouring countries where artists gather to learn how to survive and thrive with their craft. I thank ENCAC for making this dream a reality for our artists.

Create

“The industry will never be the same and I wish our artists all the best as they continue to create with an informed mindset. I hope we will have more gatherings like this in the future,” he remarked. The Eswatini Arts Summit served as a platform for artists to engage with key stakeholders and gain insights into the intricacies of the music and arts industry. Shabalala was present at the Institute of Development Management (IDM) to participate in the proceedings, highlighting the importance of governmental support for the creative community. After delivering his speech, he mingled with prominent figures including ENCAC CEO Stanley Dlamini, celebrated Gospel musician Sipho Makhabane and various other creatives who attended the event.

For artists in the kingdom, the collection of royalties has been a long-standing issue that has directly impacted their livelihoods and creative endeavours. Shabalala’s commitment to addressing this concern is a step in the right direction. By bringing attention to the need for a structured system that ensures artists are compensated for their work, he is encouraging a more sustainable artistic culture in the kingdom. ENCAC plays a crucial role in advocating for artists’ rights and facilitating discussions about their needs. This summit exemplifies their ongoing efforts to foster an environment where artists can thrive.

By creating spaces for dialogue and education, ENCAC is helping to empower creatives, enabling them to take charge of their careers and economic futures. Initiatives like the Eswatini Arts Summit offer critical support. Networking with industry professionals and learning from experienced practitioners can significantly bolster their chances of success. Shabalala’s presence at the summit underscores the potential for collaboration between artists and policymakers, marking a promising shift towards a more supportive framework for the arts.

Contributions

Shabalala’s statement also signals to the wider community that government values the contributions of artists. By committing to the collection of royalties, he is not only addressing a pressing need but also inspiring confidence in the arts sector. As artists see their work recognised and rewarded, it can foster a sense of pride and motivation to continue creating. The assurances made by Sifiso Shabalala at the Eswatini Arts Summit highlight a renewed commitment to supporting artists in the kingdom. The path toward ensuring rightful royalties is essential for empowering local creatives and nurturing the growth of a vibrant arts community. With the backing of ENCAC and advocacy from Parliament, the future looks bright for artists in Eswatini as they continue to develop their craft and make meaningful contributions to the cultural landscape.

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