BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
SIDVOKODVO- Edd Brandson Publishers, based in Zimbabwe, is making significant strides to support and elevate disable artists in Eswatini and beyond.
On September 27, 2025, at the Luke Commission auditorium in Sidvokodvo, CEO of Edd Branson Publishers Nick Ncube announced exciting initiatives aimed at fostering creativity, inclusivity, and global exposure for talented musicians.
This landmark festival united musicians, poets, dancers, dramatists, painters, fashion designers, and storytellers with disabilities from across the nation, transforming the auditorium into a vibrant hub of joy, creativity, and belonging. As part of their commitment, Edd Branson Publishers will undertake three major initiatives. First, the company plans to give away E3 000 to support emerging talents. This financial boost aims to provide artists with the resources they need to grow and flourish in their creative pursuits.
Second, Edd Branson Publishers will sponsor an album for a selected music artist. This ambitious project will see the album recorded across three countries: Eswatini, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, featuring collaborations with established artists from each nation. This cross-border initiative not only enriches the album’s diversity but also opens doors for emerging artists to gain international recognition.
The third initiative focuses on artist management. Edd Branson Publishers will select one artist to manage comprehensively, supplying everything they need to succeed and pushing their music on a global scale. “Edd Branson Publishers is a global brand,” Ncube emphasized, underscoring their commitment to elevating local talent to a worldwide audience.
By providing these programs, Edd Branson Publishers not only enhances visibility but also fosters a sense of belonging within the creative community. Such initiatives break down barriers, allowing disable, talented individuals to showcase their abilities on a global platform. They facilitate access to resources and networks that can transform lives, affirming that creativity knows no bounds. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to a more inclusive cultural landscape, where everyone has the chance to thrive and share their unique stories with the world.
As part of our support to the Creative Economy in Eswatini, Nick Ncube stated, “We have written a guide for artists titled The Business of Art and Craft, which seeks to help artists monetize their craft. The book will be available for free in Eswatini as Edd Branson’s support to the creative economy in Eswatini.”
The festival was attended by notable figures, including Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla and various ministers, reflecting a strong commitment to fostering creativity among all individuals, regardless of their abilities. Dladla articulated the festival’s significance, stating, “The festival shows our nation and the world that disability is not inability. Given the opportunity to express their God-given talents, the sky is truly the limit.”
As the festival culminated in the presentation of awards across various categories, it became clear that initiatives like those from Edd Branson Publishers are pivotal in paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant cultural landscape. With a focus on empowering local artists and fostering collaboration, Edd Branson Publishers is poised to make a lasting impact on the artistic community in Eswatini and beyond.
(Courtesy Pics)
