Invest in culture, creative industries - President Lungu
PRESIDENT Edgar Lungu has called for more investment in the cultural and creative industries.
President Lungu also called on Zambians to care for and protect historic, natural and cultural heritage so that they remain a valuable resource for present and future generations.
The President said this during his national address on the eve of Africa Freedom Day being commemorated today under the theme “arts, culture and heritage: levers for building the Africa we want.”
President Lungu said the theme beckons all citizens to leverage arts, culture and heritage to foster socio-economic development and calls on everyone to develop innovative interventions that would enhance cultural and creative industries.
President Lungu said the country was endowed with abundant natural heritage resources spread across its length and breadth.
He said the creative industry had over the years witnessed considerable growth and had seen an increase in the number of handcraft markets and cultural villages throughout the country, particularly around tourist areas.
“We have also seen growth in the local film and music industry. Some of our music and films are being enjoyed even beyond our borders. The internationally acclaimed films on Zambezi magic include Mpali, Zuba, and Spoiler to mention but a few. These movies have taken Africa by storm and we salute these actors and actresses today,” said President Lungu.
In music, President Lungu said there had been an explosion, too, and that government had continued to nurture the industry so that it empowers some of the most talented young people.
He said the creative industry was contributing to non-traditional exports and promoting the country’s image.
President Lungu said the creative arts, traditional ceremonies and rich natural heritage were contributing to job and wealth creation, saying they were fundamental in the fight against poverty.
He said government had put in place a number of policies and legislation to support the development of arts, culture and heritage in the country.
“For instance, last year we launched a K30 million Arts Development and Empowerment Scheme, targeting artistes countrywide. The scheme aims to cushion artistes from the devastating effects of covid-19 and stimulate the creation of employment opportunities for the youth.
“So far, 152 projects, translating into 3,800 artistes, have benefitted from this intervention, which is a revolving fund. As a result of this intervention, 1,500 businesses in arts have been formalised as cooperatives and companies,” he said.
President Lungu urged artistes to take advantage of the fund.