MBABANE – The Eswatini Arts and Music Association (SWAMA) has announced the commencement of member registration as the Association embarks on a new chapter.
SWAMA Public Relations Officer, Ndumiso Mamba says that as the association begins afresh with the registration of members (new and old) the revived association will ensure their wellbeing in the industry. “Those who wish to be part of the revived association, member registration officially opened on Wednesday. Both returning and new members are encouraged to register and become part of this new chapter of SWAMA. Membership subscription has been pegged at E50 per individual artist. For groups, bands, collectives and other artistic formations, each individual member is required to pay the E50 subscription and register individually,” read a statement sent by the association.
When asked how this membership subscription to the artists as some are already registered under ENCAC, Dlamini swiftly responded, “Registering at ENCAC is basically for the stats in the regional centres, just to know, in terms of states, who’s around this region, the people that use their facility in that region,” he said.
Dlamini furthered that for individuals to get assistance from the council they will have to be members of their creative codes. “For instance, if you want help with music, you need to come through a music association. So it’s the music association that affiliates with Arts and Culture. But otherwise, for you to now get help, then you need to come through an association for you to get help,” he said.
Online and In-person registration members are encouraged to register online by completing the registration form. Members are advised to download or take a screenshot of their proof of payment (PoP), as that will be required when completing the membership registration form. Applicants must complete the form and attach their proof of payment before submitting the registration. Those who may experience challenges accessing or completing the online registration form may alternatively register in person at any ENCAC office found countrywide. For further assistance, members may contact SWAMA on 7808 5408.
Who Can Register?
SWAMA welcomes membership from a broad range of creatives and administrators within Eswatini’s arts and creative industries. While some fields may have their own individual associations, practitioners in these fields are still encouraged to register with SWAMA. SWAMA recognises the diverse nature of Eswatini’s arts and music sector and seeks to provide an inclusive platform through which artists and other stakeholders can participate in the development and representation of the creative industry.
The commencement of this new membership registration process marks an important step in the revival and rebuilding of SWAMA, contributing towards building a stronger and more representative arts and music community.
