2024: A Year It Was
2024 has been a year of significant highs and heartbreaking lows for the South African Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) and the sport sector, marked by both remarkable achievements and devastating losses. This year encapsulated the challenges and triumphs that define the spirit of the nation.
The industry mourned the loss of some of its most beloved figures. The passing of Dingaan Thobela, former multiple-time world boxing champion; Connie Chiume, veteran actress known for her role in Black Panther; musician and kwaito legend Mapaputsi; thespian Darlington "Papa G" Michaels; and multi-award-winning gospel artist Solly Moholo, to name a few, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of South Africans. These artists and cultural icons, each a pillar in their respective fields, were instrumental in shaping South Africa’s music, film, sports, and entertainment industries. Their contributions have resonated across generations, and their loss is deeply felt throughout the nation. Their legacies will continue to inspire future generations and serve as a reminder of the power of sport and the arts in shaping South Africa’s identity.
Despite the significant losses in 2024, there were also moments of collective pride, with the country’s Olympic athletes displaying extraordinary talent and resilience. They secured their place on the global stage by winning an impressive six medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This achievement reflects South Africa's growing prominence in international sport and its athletes' dedication to excellence. The Paralympic team also made history in Paris by earning six medals. These athletes continue to inspire with their courage, determination, and commitment to overcoming obstacles. Their achievements are a testament to the power of sport as a means of breaking barriers and highlighting the incredible accomplishments of people with disabilities.
The global recognition of South African talent reached new heights with both Tyla and Makhadzi shining on the 2024 BET Awards stage. Makhadzi won the BET Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act Award, while Tyla continued waving the South African flag by winning both the Best New Artist and Best International Act Awards. She achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first African artist to win three MTV Europe awards in a single night. Tyla also won the first-ever Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance for her song Water. She further cemented her success by winning Best New Artist and Best International Act at the 2024 BET Awards.
In sports, Bafana Bafana achieved an extraordinary feat by qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 without losing a single game. This unbeaten run marks a significant step in South Africa’s footballing renaissance and sets high hopes for the team’s performance in the continental tournament next year. Ronwen Williams became the first South African nominated for the prestigious FIFA Ballon d’Or Yashin Trophy, awarded to the world’s best goalkeeper. Williams' nomination is especially notable as he is the first goalkeeper to receive this honour while playing for an African club, underscoring the growing recognition of African football talent on the global stage.
Dricus “Stillknocks” Du Plessis became the first South African to be crowned Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) champion and successfully defended his title. He capped the year by being awarded the International Fighter of the Year at the World Mixed Martial Arts Awards. Siya Kolisi, South African Springbok captain, was also nominated for a Laureus World Sports Award.
As we close out the year, let us take pride in these remarkable achievements and reflect on how far the nation has come, while honouring the contributions of those who have left us. This year has proven that, despite the challenges, South Africa’s talent, resilience, and spirit remain unshakable.
This festive season, it is crucial to remember the importance of supporting the CCIs and sports by attending live performances, purchasing local arts and crafts, and actively engaging with the cultural offerings in your community. The festive season offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the vibrant diversity of South African culture and to contribute to its growth and sustainability. Whether it's through music, theatre, visual arts, or literature, your support can help these industries thrive.
Let’s continue to support and celebrate the creative and sporting sectors and embrace the hope and promise of the new year ahead in 2025.
I am filled with immense pride and excitement, as we prepare to host the 5th South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) International Conference. This year marks a significant milestone for us, not only as an organisation, but also as a collective of thinkers, practitioners, and policymakers dedicated to the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs).
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As the quarter comes to a close, the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) celebrates the remarkable vitality and diversity of the country's cultural and creative industries. These sectors have demonstrated impressive strength and adaptability, highlighting their significant contributions to the nation's growth.
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THE economy, according to some, can be likened to a rainbow. We have all heard of the green or the blue economy. But what of the orange one? The orange economy is the creative economy. It is made up of the creative industries – such as architecture, animation, advertising, fashion and publishing. Together these industries form part of the modern economy where culture is produced and distributed through industrial means; with intellectual property being the main driver of trade, labour and production.
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South Africa, 30 years into democracy, faces a challenge in nurturing a culture of democracy that resonates with its youth. South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) executive director Unathi Lutshaba argues that harnessing the unifying power of culture can bridge this gap and drive positive societal change. The creative economy not only fuels economic growth but also reinforces democratic values, making it a vital component in shaping South Africa's future. Through continued research, advocacy, and collaboration, SACO envisions a Mzansi where creativity and democracy thrive together.
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5th SACO International Conference 2025
The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) is proud to announce that preparations are well underway for the highly anticipated 5th SACO International Conference, set to take place on the 5th and 6th of November 2025 in the beautiful town of Stellenbosch, and the registration and abstract submissions for the upcoming conference are now officially open!
Call for Applications: SACO Scholarship 2026–2027
The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) has announced a new opportunity for aspiring scholars in the cultural and creative sectors through its 2025–2027 Postgraduate Scholarship Programme.
While Athletes Break Records, South African Artists Break Barriers
As South African athletes lit up stadiums and arenas across the globe with history-making victories, the nation’s creative and cultural practitioners were making just as powerful an impact on the world’s stages, galleries, and award ceremonies.
Youth Day 2025: Honouring the Past, Empowering the Present and Shaping the Future
On June 16, 2025, South Africa commemorates the 49th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising, a significant moment in the nation's history where thousands of black students protested the imposition of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in schools.
My Sector, My Africa.
Africa Month, celebrated annually in May, holds signifificant importance for the cultural and creative industries (CCIs) in South Africa and across the continent. This month serves as a platform to promote unity and cooperation among African nations and reflflects South Africa's rich cultural heritage and artistic expression.
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