Swazi Observer

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ARTS SUMMIT: A CATALYST FOR ARTISTS’ EMPOWERMENT

By TANELE SIHLONGONYANE | 2025-01-31

THE Arts Summit held yesterday morning kicked off with a resounding message of empowerment and collaboration for artists and creatives across the nation.

The event took place at the Institute of Development Management (IDM) in Matsapha, hosted by Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC).

Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima emphasised that the summit transcends a mere event as it is a vital movement aimed at uplifting and uniting creatives from marginalised communities.

“This summit was thoughtfully designed to amplify voices of all, ensuring that every creative has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the growth of our creative sector,” he said.
The minister was speaking during the opening ceremony of the summit.

The three-day programme featured a diverse line-up of sessions, including a focal discussion on film and television, which showcased industry leaders like Mandla N, celebrated for his work on productions such as ‘City Sesla’ and ‘Diep City’, alongside Paramount Africa's Herbert Hadebe and Eswatini TV's Celiwe Dlamini.

Together, they shared insights on both local and international trends, emphasising the potential for growth in Eswatini's creative industries.

The summit drew an impressive crowd, including notable figures such as ministry of Sports, Arts and youth affairs Under Secretary Mzwandile Mthethwa, Director of Arts and Culture at the Ministry of Sports, Culture, and Youth Affairs Phinda Nkosi and Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture CEO Stanley Dlamini.

The atmosphere was charged with curiosity and enthusiasm, as attendees engaged deeply with discussions on the future of the creative economy.

Nzima highlighted the importance of addressing critical issues such as intellectual property rights and royalties.

“We are taking bold steps towards empowering our artists to not only thrive but also sustain themselves economically in this ever-evolving landscape,” he said.

He urged participants to seize the opportunity for collaboration and innovation in the arts sector.
Reflecting on the recent National Arts and Culture Awards (NACAs) held in December, the minister noted the summit's role in self-assessment and continuous improvement for future award ceremonies.

“These awards are a cornerstone of recognising and celebrating the talent within our creative community,” he said.

“Together, let us build a creative economy that not only elevates Eswatini but also touches the world. Let us dream boldly.

“Let us act decisively. Let us create a future where art thrives and artists soar,” the minister concluded.

Mandla N was the keynote speaker for the film and television opportunities session. he inspired attendees with anecdotes from his own journey in the industry.

“What's yours will never miss you. When art is pure, it can transcend all over the world,” he asserted.

He also announced plans to return to Eswatini at the end of February to scout for local talent, igniting excitement among aspiring artists in the audience.

With several creatives in attendance, Lawrence Sebenta Mhlanga said he hoped to adapt skills that could enhance his acting career.

“I want to be a versatile actor and learn how to adapt to different roles because there are some roles I wish to play like lead roles or any role.

“I want to come out motivated that the film industry is coming okay so that when South Africans come to scout for actors they will find me ready even though I am old but I can still act. old age doesn't mean you can't act,” he said.

Aspiring actor Linda Mamba said he was grateful for the opportunity to attend the summit and was hopeful that he would gain insights on how the industry operates.

“I am truly grateful for the opportunity and I was particularly inspired by Mandla N who took us through his journey in the industry and I love how he started his own company at the age of 19,” he said.

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