Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Buti Manamela, has encouraged artists attending the Musicians Indaba on Friday, in Soweto, to unite.
“The unity of the industry is important to amplify your advocacy and lobbying voice. We will listen to as many voices as possible but we also plead with you to organise and find unity among yourselves. Together you are stronger,” Deputy Minister Manamela said.
The Deputy Minister convened the indaba as the chairperson of the Presidential Task Team on Creative Industries.
The indaba is the first of several sectorial engagements that the task team will hold in different parts of the country, covering various sectors of the creative industry.
This indaba gave musicians a platform to speak directly to government on the issues that affect their day to day business within the sector.
Issues including piracy, copyright protection and infringement, local content and airplay in broadcast media are some of the subjects that were discussed.
Deputy Minister Manamela assured artists that the issues that were raised will be recorded and directed back to the task team for fast tracked resolutions.
Government departments and agencies were exhibiting their services at the indaba to assist musicians with information on funding opportunities and other support programmes.
“The work of our creative artists is important to the fabric of our nation. Your work raises important issues in our society.
“You have an important social cohesion role to play. Your contribution to the economy is growing,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
