Nkulumane MP Urges Government to Prioritize Support for the Arts Sector

Posted by admin on 2024-09-26 09:25:37 | Last Updated by admin on 2024-10-12 02:18:01

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Bulawayo, Zimbabwe – 26 September 2024

By MKHOKHELI ZIBENGWA 

Nkulumane Member of Parliament, Hon. Desire Moyo, has expressed deep frustration with the government's handling of the arts sector, describing it as “literally dying” and accusing authorities of neglecting grassroots artists.

 In an exclusive interview with BANO News, Hon. Moyo responded to the parliamentary discussion on the state of the arts sector, highlighting the struggles faced by artists and the lack of meaningful support from the government.

This response comes after a question he posed to the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture regarding the status of the arts in Zimbabwe. While Minister Kirsty Coventry provided a detailed update on initiatives, including capacity building workshops, film studios, and infrastructure development, Hon. Moyo was left unsatisfied by the lack of real change and action.

Speaking candidly, Hon. Moyo painted a bleak picture of the reality faced by artists across the country. “Performing artists are the most abused, used, underpaid, and abandoned,” he said, noting the dire circumstances in which many community artists find themselves. Despite their significant contributions to national events and cultural showcases, many are struggling to make ends meet. 

“Our country has no heart for the arts," Moyo lamented. He underscored the irony of the situation, as artists are frequently called upon to perform at high-profile events, such as Heroes Day celebrations, only to go unpaid for their work. 

"I gather that a lot of our artists who featured on the recent Heroes Day 2024 festivities are still not paid," Moyo added.

Moyo’s criticism went beyond just the lack of payment. He highlighted a broader systemic failure to support the arts sector, citing the lack of social safety nets, housing, and recognition for those who dedicate their lives to their craft.

“Great selfless community artists are sinking in poverty, struggling to raise families, with no housing, no savings, no recognition, no nothing,” he said.

For Moyo, this speaks to a larger problem of misplaced priorities within the government. “When will our country celebrate the grassroots artists?” he questioned, calling attention to the crucial role these individuals play in promoting Zimbabwe's image on the global stage and lifting the spirits of marginalized communities.

Yet, despite their efforts, many artists continue to live in impoverished conditions, with little support or appreciation from the state.

While Minister Coventry outlined several strategies aimed at improving the arts sector, including the establishment of national associations, sector policies, and film studios in Harare and Bulawayo, Hon. Moyo remains skeptical. The Arts Development Fund, which was supposed to help uplift artists by providing financial support, has been underwhelming in its execution. "The Arts Development Fund is still hearsay. The artists are poor, and we will die poor, and be buried by donations," he said, in a stark reminder of the economic realities faced by the country's creative community.

Hon. Moyo expressed disappointment that he was unable to follow up with supplementary questions during the parliamentary session due to the Minister’s absence.

 "It is sad that Hon. Minister Kirsty is on sabbatical," said Hon. Moyo

He had hoped to challenge the government further on its plans for the sector, including pressing for answers on the unpaid artists and the lack of funding.

Hon. Moyo's impassioned plea highlights the urgent need for the government to reassess its priorities when it comes to the arts sector. He believes that Zimbabwe must do more to support and celebrate its artists, particularly those working at the grassroots level, who are often overlooked despite their significant contributions.

As the country grapples with a host of economic challenges, Moyo’s comments serve as a reminder that the arts should not be forgotten.

 The sector not only provides employment but also plays a critical role in preserving Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage and promoting national identity. Yet, without meaningful investment and proper support, the future of the arts in Zimbabwe remains uncertain.

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For more updates on Zimbabwe’s arts sector and the latest parliamentary developments, stay tuned to BANO News.