Arts sector deserves a breather too

BY keeping a tight lid on the arts sector when other sectors of the economy have been allowed to operate, our government has shown that it does not fully appreciate the importance of the cultural and creative industry as a key economic driver. The arts sector is a multi-million-dollar industry and could go a long way in jumpstarting the economy if it is allowed to resume operations.

Several artistes are breadwinners for their families and it’s hard to imagine how they are surviving since the start of the lockdown in March last year.

The continued ban might force many artistes to stage illegal shows disguised as private functions or migrate to neighbouring South Africa, which is considered a hotspot of the COVID-19 pandemic, to fend for their families.

Why is it taking so long for the government to allow the arts industry to resume operation?

While the government launched the Cultural and Creative Industries Strategy 2020-30, which is the roadmap that guides the development and growth of the cultural and creative industry sector, no meaningful progress can be made if the sector remains under lockdown.

The arts sector is capable of contributing to the country’s economy, but if it remains locked, development will be compromised at a time there is need to start thinking critically about how the sector’s full potential can be harnessed.

The government is duty bound to facilitate an enabling environment for artistes to thrive, just like what has been done to other businesses. The arts sector deserves its fair share so as to acclimatise to the new normal just like others.

There is no doubt that there is need to manage the spread of the pandemic, but it must be taken into consideration that the arts sector benefits the country in many ways such as tax contributions, employment creation and promotion of tourism.

Artistes are crying foul that their source of income has for long been threatened as physical gatherings for live concerts remained banned. The government must understand that artistes earn a living from their work, not handouts.

The artistes are on record saying they are ready to resume business adhering strictly to COVID-19 prevention protocols and the standard operating procedures.