Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, has assured the entertainment fraternity of an enabling environment in order for the sector to grow.
Nzima announced the assurance during a farewell function of a cultural dance group and local artist M Nation who will be hoisting the country’s flag in India. He said his Majesty’s government was committed to supporting artists by creating an enabling environment for arts and culture to grow in Eswatini. He said they had recently acquired regional arts centres where artists will use them to perfect their craft across the country. “While this undoubtedly underlines our commitment to you, we understand that it is not enough and we will strive to do more to help grow the arts and culture sector in Eswatini,” he added.
He went on to express his sincere gratitude to the Indian High Commission that has been truly outstanding partners in bringing to life and growing the partnership that is serving as yet another cornerstone towards strengthening the long-standing relationship between Eswatini and India. It is worth noting that the two groups will be the third culture troupe Eswatini will be sending to India since they signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian High Commission to facilitate such initiatives. “Such cultural exchange programmes are key to enhancing understanding and appreciation of the differing, but equally beautiful cultures between the two countries and in doing so, we inculcate a spirit of tolerance and an enhanced world view among our people. I am, therefore, delighted to see this programme growing,” he added.
Ndzima went on to plead with the chosen artists to represent their country well. He said they were now ambassadors. “It is through you that the people of India and other countries will learn about Eswatini and the kind of people emaSwati are. I, therefore, encourage you to grab this opportunity with both hands and to show the best versions of yourselves in India. Not only is this an opportunity to showcase the beauty of Eswatini, it is also an opportunity for you, as artists, to show your undoubted talent to a global audience and possibly unlock new doors for your professional growth,” he said.
The artists left yesterday night. The Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Dlamini, first shared that the artists chosen were picked by merit through the different regional art centres. He also noted that the travelling costs and accommodation were catered for by Indian High Commission. “We are excited about this opportunity and we hope the chosen artists will represent Eswatini well. ‘‘They are in a better position to connect and put Eswatini on the map,” he said. During an interview with musician M Nation, he shared that he was excited about getting the opportunity to represent local culture and talent in India. “I am both excited and humbled by this opportunity and it couldn’t have come at a better time than now as I begin the year. It is an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself for even more growth right on time for the rest of the year,” he said.
When asked how the opportunity has motivated him as a musician, he said that it has fuelled him to extend his fan base abroad. “Obviously, it is inspiring and has prompted me to ask myself some important questions about my craft, towards how best I can do well in India, considering the language and cultural dynamics between us. Most importantly, I am looking forward to having fun and, of course to introducing my brand of musical excellence that side,” he said.
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