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ENCAC SIGNS MOU WITH AGIC GLOBAL FOUNDATION

By DEO GRATIAS MAGAGULA | 2024-12-21

HISTORY was made yesterday at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini as the AGIC Global Foundation and Eswatini National Arts and Culture Council (ENCAC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to solidify their partnership.

The event was described by ENCAC CEO Stanley Dlamini as a "marriage" between the two organisations, symbolising a commitment to elevating Eswatini’s art and culture on a global scale.

The ceremony, which featured representatives from the AGIC Global Foundation, began with a warm welcome from NACA Chairman Sipho "Big Fish" Makhabane.

AGIC representatives, including its president, His Excellency Amb. Dr. Al Hussein O.E. Banao, were dressed in traditional Eswatini attire, a gesture that demonstrated their admiration for the nation’s cultural heritage. The president expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality they received, stating, “We feel at home here.”

In a heartfelt speech, His Excellency Amb. Dr. Al Hussein O.E. Banao underscored the significance of art and culture, describing it as the identity of a people. “It is paramount that we work closely to bring resources to promote what I call the hidden gold of Eswatini art and culture,” he said.

He also pledged to support Eswatini’s efforts in gaining recognition for an International Day of Tradition and Culture, a resolution to be presented during the United Nations General Assembly, with the backing of His Majesty King Mswati III.

Highlighting the Foundation’s commitment to action, the president announced plans for the inaugural "Ingwenyama World Festival," an international event to celebrate African culture, slated for next year. The festival aims to showcase Eswatini’s unique traditions while fostering global cultural exchange.

The signing of the MOU by His Excellency Amb. Dr. Al Hussein O.E. Banao and ENCAC CEO Stanley Dlamini was the highlight of the event, formalising the partnership. Following the signing, both parties exchanged gifts, symbolising their shared commitment. In an interview, the AGIC president described the gifts as priceless, stating they represented African identity and left him deeply moved.

When asked about ensuring the effective use of resources for arts and culture, the president highlighted AGIC’s global expertise. “Our organisation knows no borders,” he said, revealing plans to establish a joint committee and assign AGIC representatives to Eswatini.

This structure is expected to be operational between January and March next year.
AGIC representatives at the event included Diane Diallo, Dalia Madina, and Prince David Anyia. The signing ceremony marks a new chapter for Eswatini, as it positions itself as a hub for cultural preservation and global recognition.

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