BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MATSAPHA– More than 200 creatives from across the country have registered for the third edition of the Eswatini Arts Summit, a key platform aimed at strengthening the nation’s creative economy.
The three-day conference will take place from March 11 to March 13, 2026, at the Institute of Development and Management (IDM) in Matsapha.
The summit returns under the theme “Creating Opportunities for Artists,” reflecting a national focus on empowering creatives and expanding employment opportunities for young people. The theme aligns with the recent Speech from the Throne delivered by King Mswati III during the Official State Opening of the 3rd Session of the 12th Parliament of Eswatini.
During the address, the King emphasised the need to create opportunities for the youth as part of efforts to address unemployment. The Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) is responding to this call through the summit, which focuses on professional development and strengthening the creative sector.
To bridge the gap between local talent and global markets, ENCAC has assembled a panel of experienced industry professionals who will share practical knowledge and insights.
Among the keynote speakers is Dumsani Motsamai, Director at Morolong Inc., who brings more than 22 years of legal experience in commercial and entertainment law. His session will focus on intellectual property protection and legal structures within the creative industry.
Also participating is Sinamandla Kwepile, Managing Director of the Moshito Music Conference, who will discuss strategies for connecting local artists with international stakeholders and markets.
Other speakers include Vusi Leeuw, President of the South African Music Industry Council (SAMIC) and former executive at Warner Music Group, as well as Sphe Mbhele, founder and project manager of The Music Imbizo.
The summit will also feature Rufus Maculuve, Executive Director of Music Crossroads Mozambique, who will provide insights into cultural production and cross-border collaborations within the African creative industry.
The 2026 edition aims to build on the momentum of the previous summit, which generated significant opportunities for local creatives.
Among the notable outcomes was a casting commitment from Black Brain Pictures and a pledge from Paramount Africa to acquire ten films from Eswatini annually.
The summit programme will focus on major areas within the creative industry.
Day One (March 11) will focus on film and television, Day Two (March 12) will centre on the music industry, and Day Three (March 13) will explore festivals, events and awards.
Through this structured programme, ENCAC aims to equip filmmakers, musicians, event organisers and other creatives with the skills and strategic knowledge needed to succeed in regional and global markets.
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(Courtesy Pic)
