The Community, Arts and Culture Department of Cape Town is offering nonprofit organizations the opportunity to apply for GrantsinAid funding amounting to R3 230 046. This funding is dedicated to creative and cultural projects that target young individuals and marginalized groups such as women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. The projects aim to enrich the city’s cultural milieu and enhance the community’s overall wellbeing, with a focus on accessibility and diversity. The city is committed to making cultural and creative activities more accessible, nurturing talent, and promoting cultural activities in neighborhoods.
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, is promoting transparency through social media and an open dialogue with the public. He recently publicized a list of Covid19 relief programme beneficiaries and exposed irregularities, such as potential misuse of funds and individuals who did not apply for or receive money being listed as beneficiaries. McKenzie has also discontinued trips for super fans and redirected the funds to support struggling artists and athletes. His candid approach demonstrates a dedication to fair distribution of resources and has sparked a new conversation about public sector transparency and accountability in South Africa.
Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. Mbongeni Ngema: Insights into Arts, Culture, and Heritage
In a recent speech at the funeral of Dr. Mbongeni Ngema, Minister N.G. Kodwa highlighted the importance of the arts and culture industry in South Africa, which contributes over 90 billion rand to the country’s GDP and accounts for 6 percent of all employment. He emphasized the need for recognizing and honoring artists while they are still alive and urged the government to take action to establish a fund for sustainable growth. The speech served as a powerful appeal for valuing artists and establishing systems for their sustainability.
The Helderberg Night Market in Strand Square is a community celebration featuring live performances, street food, and locally crafted merchandise. It showcases the region’s artistic vitality and offers a platform for local artisans to display their talents. The market also bolsters the local economy and offers a vital lifeline to local traders. It’s a vibrant and welcoming space that promotes local talent and creativity.
On June 19, 2023, the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Naledi Pandor, welcomed the French Minister, Ms. Catherine Colonna, for a Working Visit with the aim of strengthening the bilateral cooperation between the two nations. The visit provided a platform for both Ministers to engage in profound discussions on topics of mutual interest, covering regional and international matters.
The Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for the transformation, preservation, protection, and promotion of sport, arts, and Culture at all levels of participation will be showcased during the 2023 Budget Vote Debate Week, led by Minister Zizi Kodwa.
The Suidoosterfees is an annual festival that celebrates the vibrant arts and culture scene in Cape Town. The festival’s legacy spans over 20 years, and it has become a highlight on the city’s cultural calendar. The festival’s main aim is to showcase the diverse heritage of the city and provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents.
The City of Cape Town is proud to support once again the annual Suidoosterfees, which will take place from April 26 to May 1, 2023, at the Artscape. This festival has become a major cultural event on the Cape Town calendar and highlights the best of the region’s arts and culture scene.