Mbabane: Government through the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) has spent over E400 000 assisting artists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This was revealed by the Minister of Sports Culture and Youth Affairs Harries Madze Bulunga at the XChange Lounge during the launch of the Vault Unlocked Eswatini Dance Music Compilation.
The total amount spent according to a statement by the minister of Sports, is E415 000.
According to the minister, government, through the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture, made a contribution of E15 000 towards the Vault Unlocked Eswatini Dance Music Compilation project. The minister said it is one of several arts projects financially supported by Government through our Ministry during this COVID-19 period.
The minister added that over E400 000 has been made to support our artist during this difficult period. The money was used to sponsor and support artist to host virtual events and organized workshops.
Meanwhile Bulunga said as a ministry they acknowledge that much more resources are needed to fully unlock the potential of the arts industry in our Kingdom. He said the ministry is working behind the scenes, in collaboration with all relevant Government Ministries and Departments, to create a much more suitable environment for the arts to flourish in Eswatini.
Committed
The minister of sports said government remains committed to opening the arts industry but there were some things that needs to be put into consideration before such decisions are made.
Bulunga said, government remains totally committed to fully reopening the industry but the safety of the Nation will continue to be of paramount importance.
He said it is the role of all stakeholders is to continue to work together in harmony with Government in respecting the current laid down conditions.
“We all continue to look forward to the day in which our favorite hangout spots such as this one we are at can fully reopen so that EmaSwati can enjoy such great locally produced music in the company of other music lovers. We are confident that such a day is nearing ever so closer.”
Bulunga further encouraged artists and fun lovers to take the COVID-19 vaccine when their opportunity arrives. He said that remains one of the quickest ways to getting our industry fully unleashed again.
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