MPs call for upgrades of arts centres

MBABANE – During Parliament’s first quarter report submission, Members of Parliament (MPs) wanted answers on why arts centres were not upgraded.

The Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, addressed Cabinet members by first reminding them of the ministry’s core objectives, which are fostering sustainable youth development, preserving culture, promoting creative industries and sporting excellence in the country.

“This requires coordinated and effective efforts from all sectors in government with the ministry’s technical departments and parastatals to ensure a successful integrated approach to national development,” read the minister’s remarks.

The report also states that the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) has actively implemented strategic programmes aligned with the National Arts and Culture Policy, inclusive of decentralisation of arts governance through regional structures, regional festivals and international collaboration.” Considerable progress has been made by the national arts and culture associations, community-based engagements, school-driven cultural activities and the strengthening of partnerships at both local and international levels,” read the report.

Manzini Region Woman MP, Thandeka Mavuso asked the committee two crucial questions during the seating: What ENCAC is doing to support and promote outstanding artists and when the ministry will consider upgrading the arts and culture centres?

The responses were quite positive and fulfilling, as the report states that the ministry acknowledges both recommendations. The first response from the ministry was that the ENCAC hosts national awards to recognise excellence in the arts sector and facilitates an arts summit for capacity building, collaborations with well-established international artists and promoting cultural exchange programmes.

“Currently, the arts and culture centres are rented and not owned. However, there are plans underway to acquire land and construct dedicated centres for the growth and promotion of local creatives in the country,” read the committee’s response on the second enquiry.

Several art and cultural centres in African countries offer rental options for various events and activities. These venues range from theatres and galleries to community spaces and historical buildings, providing spaces for exhibitions, performances, workshops and more. Some examples include the Centre for National Culture in Accra, Ghana and various galleries and museums in Cape Town, South Africa, which may offer rental options for specific events.