Africa-Press – Mauritius. The Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development, Dr Renganaden Padayachy, laid emphasis, this evening as he presented the Budget 2022-23, on the need to support and reignite the country’s arts, culture and historical institutions as they reopen.
It is an industry which brings together our sense of identity, and unites us as one nation, he recalled. On this score, the Minister announced that in order to promote creativity and encourage more artistic projects, new schemes will be introduced, namely:
An Artist Incubator Scheme to nurture emerging talents. A scheme to facilitate the participation of local talents in international award ceremonies. A scheme for local artists to participate in international competitions.
As for the professionalisation and development of the creative sector, the Finance Minister stated that the Budget 2022-23 is earmarking some Rs 20 million for the setting up of a National Arts Centre, including a recording studio at Reunion Maurel, Petit Raffray.
Additionally, the Centre de Formation Artistique will be revamped, while the Serge Constantin Theatre and the Pointe Canon Open Air Theatre will be modernised.
Dr Renganaden Padayachy further indicated that the Côte D’Or National Sports Complex will be equipped to host major concerts by local and international artists. Other key announcements of the Budget to support the Arts and Culture sector include:
Launching of an Expression of Interest to encourage private operators to renovate, maintain and operate historical buildings and landmarks including the ‘Chateau Bénares’ and the Citadelle on a commercial basis.
Twelve Fêtes Nationales will be organised throughout the year 2023, in the context of the 55th anniversary of the independence. The first edition of the Mauritius Arts Expo will be organised this year.
A grant of Rs 5,000 will be provided to all registered artists displaying at the Mauritius Arts Expo. To promote Mauritian literature, Government will adopt a public policy to purchase local works published in the year and make them accessible to Mauritians in public libraries.
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