Ugu creatives support new arts MEC

The Ugu District Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa (CCIFSA) recently outlined key sectors that the new KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sports, Arts, and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, needs to advance.

CCIFSA District Secretary Lindani Mkhize said the MEC will need to focus on heritage preservation, performing arts, visual arts, crafts, music, film, sound and television, literature and publishing, design, and digital arts.

Mkhize was speaking last Friday when congratulating Khawula on his recent appointment.

Originally from Ward 14 in Umzumbe, Khawula is the former Principal of KwaFica High School.

Mkhize said CCIFSA believes that Khawula’s experience as a member of the Provincial Legislature and having worked in KZN’s Education Portfolio Committee will also assist him in linking sports, arts and culture with schools.

“Khawula’s extensive experience, particularly his tenure as a former mayor of the Ugu District and a member of the KwaZulu-Natal Sports and Recreation Legislature Committee equips him with a profound understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the cultural and creative sectors. His deep-rooted commitment and contributions to the creative sector economy during his service at the district level have already laid a solid foundation for progressive policy development and sectoral growth,” he said.

Mkhize added that Khawula’s strategic oversight and visionary leadership are anticipated to facilitate comprehensive policies that nurture talent and ensure sustainable growth and economic development within sectors.

He said the MEC’s proven track record in policy facilitation and community engagement will be instrumental in driving initiatives that foster creativity, enhance cultural heritage, and create viable economic opportunities for artists and cultural practitioners across the province.

“The Ugu CCIFSA is confident that under Khawula’s guidance, there will be a significant enhancement in the support of infrastructure for the cultural and creative
industries. We look forward to a collaborative partnership with the MEC’s office to promote initiatives that align with our shared vision of a vibrant, inclusive, and economically robust cultural sector,” he said.

He added that they are optimistic that Khawula will champion the cause of the creative industries with the same passion and dedication that has marked his career.

Mkhize said they offer him their full support and best wishes for his new portfolio.

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