“I commend Minister Mboweni for tabling a realistic budget within a very challenging fiscal environment.
It is encouraging to note that Minister Mboweni has acknowledged our nation’s arts, culture and heritage within many constraints and considerations affecting the budget. It is long overdue and it is recognition of the importance of preserving what represents the soul of our nation.
The establishment of a new national theatre and national museum and the financial support for a national orchestra and ballet troupe will give impetus to the Cultural and Creative Industries to flourish. This gives much needed opportunities for talented individuals, especially the youth and those from rural areas, to potentially become global stars like the Soweto Gospel Choir that won a Grammy last week. The visual arts, film, music, computer gaming, architecture, design, fashion, advertising and new digital technologies are all part of the Cultural and Creative Industries.
The national archives and museum have been in a state of want for a long period and this crucial financial assistance will ensure that our history, especially our struggle history is preserved for posterity.
Our nation’s arts, culture and heritage is a rallying point that promotes social cohesion and the appreciation of the melting pot of cultures and ethnicities that make South Africa a unique rainbow nation.
The potential of the Cultural and Creative Industries for South Africa is enormous. As a county, we are just beginning to tap into this potential through our exceptional visual and performing arts and emerging technology platforms. Opportunities now exist where there were none previously. The Cultural and Creative Industries have become significant contributors to the global economy as key drivers and revenue generators. As South Africa, we should harness this potential for the greater good and prosperity of our people.”
Anant Singh
Durban
20 February 2019
