By Phumzile Ndlovu
MATSAPHA – The Eswatini Arts Summit kicked off yesterday at the Institute of Development Management (IDM), setting an inspiring tone for the three-day event. Scheduled to conclude on Friday, January 31, 2025, the summit brings together creatives, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore the transformative power of the arts in Eswatini.
The opening day was themed “Exploring Opportunities in the Film and Television Industry,” featuring a dynamic lineup of speakers, including renowned director and producer Mandla N of Black Brain Pictures as the keynote speaker. He was joined by Herbert Hadebe, the Paramount Africa Commissioning Editor, and Celiwe Dlamini, Eswatini TV’s Commissioning Editor, who shared valuable insights into industry trends both locally and internationally.
Government’s Commitment to the Arts Sector
Gracing the occasion was Minister of Sports, Culture, and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, who delivered a compelling address on the importance of shifting perspectives on art—from being seen as mere talent to being recognized as a powerful economic force.
“It is both an honor and a privilege for me to stand before you today as we officially open the National Arts Summit,” Nzima declared. “This event is significant and timely for the creative industries of Eswatini.”
Nzima emphasized that the summit serves as a strategic platform to prepare the arts sector for the year ahead. He highlighted that the Eswatini government has signed various Cultural Resolutions, Protocols, and International Declarations aimed at transforming the industry into a professionally structured sector.
“The transformation we envision is holistic, focusing on professional development,” Nzima stated. “The people of Eswatini must begin to see the creative industry as a viable career path—one that can provide sustainable livelihoods.”
A Catalyst for Growth and Global Recognition
The first day of the summit attracted a vibrant audience of artists, filmmakers, musicians, and cultural leaders, all eager to engage in discussions that could shape the future of the country’s creative economy. Nzima expressed confidence that the event would serve as more than just a gathering—it would act as a catalyst for empowerment, economic independence, and cultural identity.
“The National Arts Summit is not just an event,” he said. “It is a movement—one designed to address crucial issues such as intellectual property rights (IP), royalties, and sustainable income streams for creatives. By tackling these topics, we are making bold steps toward ensuring that artists thrive in this evolving landscape.”
Nzima further stressed the importance of positioning Eswatini’s creative economy on the global stage. He urged stakeholders to form strategic partnerships and embrace innovative storytelling techniques, film production methods, and cultural preservation initiatives.
“This summit is not only about empowering artists; it is also about creating an enabling environment where their work can generate both local and international revenue streams,” he noted.
A Call to Action for the Creative Community
Minister Nzima assured attendees that the government remains committed to ensuring that the discussions and resolutions from the summit translate into tangible strategies and policies.
“Your contributions will directly shape the Ministry’s agenda for the upcoming financial year,” he stated. “This is a call to action for every creative in this room—take ownership of this process. Your voices matter.”
He also urged artists to recognize the immense influence they hold as storytellers of the nation. “Through your work, you have the power to inspire, heal, and unite,” Nzima encouraged. “Let this summit be a defining moment in your journey—one where you rise above challenges and claim your rightful place as architects of Eswatini’s cultural and creative legacy.”
A Vision for the Future of Eswatini’s Arts Industry
Concluding his speech, Nzima left the audience with a powerful message:
“Art is not just a reflection of society—it is its soul. When we empower our artists, we are not just investing in individuals; we are investing in the future of Eswatini. Together, let us build a creative economy that not only elevates our nation but also impacts the world. Let us dream boldly. Let us act decisively. Let us create a future where art thrives and artists soar.”
With such a strong start, the Eswatini Arts Summit promises to be a groundbreaking event that will pave the way for a flourishing creative industry in the country.
