Government Highlights Arts and Sports for Economic Growth
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, highlighted the government’s focus on supporting the arts, culture, and creative industries as key drivers of economic growth and social cohesion while celebrating 130 years of the city of Bulawayo since its declaration as a town.
At the festivities, the Minister’s representative who read her speech on her behalf said that the government supports creatives, culture and sports.
“As the government of Zimbabwe, we recognize the importance of sports, art, and culture,” Ncube stated.
Economic Blueprint
She added, “This importance is highlighted in the development strategy 1, NDS 1, which is our economic blueprint which guides the economic development of the country from 2021 to 2025.”
Ncube noted that NDS 1 projects a 40% increase in the consumption of art and cultural products by 2025, underscoring the government’s commitment to nurturing the creative sector.
“We are not far away from 2025. Only one year left. We want to get to 2025. Hence, this deliberate effort to ensure that we provide a strong art and culture centre,” she said.
Artistic Talent
The minister praised Bulawayo’s rich artistic talent, which has gained recognition internationally.
“The city of Bulawayo has always championed the industry and this is showcased by its rich talent, which has also been exported to the international community,” Ncube said.
Highlighting the cultural and economic significance of the Bulawayo Arts Festival, Ncube emphasised its role in showcasing the city’s “proud heritage, rich diversity, and artistic potential.”
She described the festival as “a celebration in the form of music, theatre, dance, food, and craft” that contributes to Bulawayo’s creative economy.
Investment Potential
Ncube stressed the need to commercialise and enhance the investment potential of the arts, praising the city’s “Cultural Value Chains Initiative” which has revitalised the local arts and crafts sector.
“The growth of the arts can only be through its institutionalisation in both the local and national government,” Ncube said.
She further said, “The development of arts, culture and heritage office in the city of Bulawayo is a step in the right direction that complements government efforts to nurture cultural and creative industries talent and innovations.”
Culture Month
As the country celebrates Culture Month, Ncube expressed optimism that the Bulawayo Day celebrations would contribute to the “revitalisation of the city’s economic sector’s development and its sense of pride.”
“Arts and culture are key in the expression of national identity and contributing towards improved social cohesion,” Ncube concluded.
She added, “Development has always been anchored on pride of identity, use of culture and indigenous knowledge to bring people together.”
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