BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI– The Eswatini Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Society (ESWACOS) aims to strengthen the country’s creative sector and ensure that artists benefit from their work through improved copyright management, following a workshop held on March 7, 2026 at the Manzini Library American Corner.
The engagement formed part of efforts to develop ESWACOS’ Five-Year Strategic Plan (2026–2031), with support from SAMKHO Consulting. The workshop brought together creatives from across the Kingdom, including filmmakers, authors, podcasters, visual artists and poets.
Participants used the platform to reflect on the state of the creative industry and propose solutions that could help address existing challenges while unlocking new opportunities for growth.
During the session, creatives shared their values, expectations and experiences in the industry, while also identifying key obstacles that affect their work. They further explored ways of collaborating with ESWACOS to strengthen support structures, promote innovation and improve the overall development of the sector.
ESWACOS Director Mmeli Hlandze explained that the workshop was designed to gather insights directly from creatives, noting that the strategic plan is intended to serve their interests. “The creatives shared their values and expectations, which will help us identify common issues within the creative sector,” he said.
Hlandze added that since ESWACOS was established in 2023, understanding the dynamics of the creative industry has been a key priority before finalising a comprehensive strategic roadmap.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating that the workshop was also intended to build a transparent and cooperative relationship between the organisation and creatives.
“We did not want to work alone. That is why we invited the people who work hand in hand with us to discuss and engage on how we can collaborate,” he said, adding that the insights gathered will guide the organisation’s future operations.
Meanwhile, Sabelo Mkhonta, Chief Executive Officer of SAMKHO Consulting, outlined the consultancy’s role in the strategic planning process. “Strategic planning acts as a vision. We assist ESWACOS in identifying key challenges within the creative sectors so that every creative can be rewarded for their work,” he said.
Mkhonta added that the initiative aims to strengthen systems that ensure royalties reach artists while also supporting the sustainable growth of the creative economy.
He further noted that the workshop not only provided a platform for creatives to share their perspectives, but also offered guidance on strategic planning, copyright management and industry standards within the creative sector.
#EPN #ESWACOS #CreativeIndustry #EswatiniCreatives #CopyrightProtection #CreativeEconomy #ArtsAndCulture #Manzini #Eswatini
(Courtesy Pic)
