The Free State Music Association (FSMA) and the South African Arts and Culture Youth Forum (SAACYF) recently expressed their support for MEC Zanele Sifuba’s budget vote, presented on Tuesday, 21 April, in Sasolburg, Free State. The FSMA highlighted that the R710 million budget will greatly benefit the cultural sector under program 2, positively impacting artists throughout the province. They also welcomed the increased funding for the Macufe festival and the commitment to establishing a film hub in the Free State.
In response to the appointment of the new head of the department (HOD), the FSMA expressed confidence in her ability to deliver on expectations. Similarly, SAACYF, representing various stakeholders in the creative and cultural sectors, noted key commitments from the department that aim to promote transparency and inclusivity across the province.
One of their significant calls is for 80% of artists participating in this year’s MACUFE festival to be sourced from the Free State, particularly focusing on including artists from rural and township areas. They also celebrated the department’s plans to stage District Arts and Culture Festivals as part of MACUFE, alongside the Homebrew Arts and Culture Program at the provincial level.
SAACYF acknowledged the MEC’s prioritization of Clap and Tap and Choral music genres, which have historically struggled for adequate recognition and platforms. They urged the rollout of programs that encompass one metropolitan municipality as well as all four district municipalities, ensuring coverage across all 18 local municipalities in the Free State.
Furthermore, they welcomed the announcement of a Film Hub and called for the swift establishment of a Free State Film Commission. They believe this initiative, supported by the National Film and Video Foundation, has the potential to boost the provincial economy and aid filmmakers already active in the region.
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