South African Cultural Observatory

Better Africa Better World

BY 01.07.24

May marked Africa month - a moment for the continent to pause, reflect, and celebrate the unique African identity and cultural expression. Africa Day is celebrated annually to commemorate the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), founded on 25 May 1963. The National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) through the Mzansi Golden Economy (MGE) initiative celebrated Africa month under the “Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom: Building a Better Africa and a Better World’.  As part of the celebrations, an inter-cultural round table discussion workshop was organised which aimed at educating the targeted audience in the sector about the role the Cultural and Creative Industries in the SA economy.

South Africa was also celebrating 30 years of freedom and as part of these celebrations, people were invited to show their unity and the diversity of African cultures. One of the topics in the round table discussion was about the 2063 agenda. DSAC together with the MGE expressed that this agenda needs support from all those involved in the sector. The department stated that “Agenda 2063 reflects the aspirations of Africa as a continent with strong cultural identity, values, and ethics. In support of Agenda 2063 we can foster unity amongst all Africans across the continent. Future growth will be spurred by the continent’s commitment to Agenda 2063 to drive the social, economic and political rejuvenation of Africa.”

In conclusion, and as part of the Africa month celebration at  Vilakazi street, Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola gave a keynote speech and a summary of the African continent' countries and their strife, emphasising how SA is lucky to be at peace. The event was graced by the Legendary, Sipho "Hotsticks" Mabuse and Abigail Kubheka as they reflected on the event and how, as a nation, we have come so far after 30 years of Freedom.

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SAVE THE DATE!! SAVE THE DATE!!

SAVE THE DATE!! South African Cultural Observatory's upcoming conference that will take place on the 5 and 6 of November 2025. Theme: Creative Economy Futures: Perspectives, Policies & Practices Mark your calendars and stay tune for more information

Exploring the South African Design Sector Exploring the South African Design Sector

On November 7th, 2024, the South African Cultural Observatory hosted its last #GQFirstThursday for the year, themed "Design, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship” at The Roof Garden, Central, Gqeberha.

South African creatives embrace AI while calling for IP protection – new report. South African creatives embrace AI while calling for IP protection – new report.

Gqeberha, South Africa – December 10, 2024: A groundbreaking report from the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) reveals that creative professionals are enthusiastically adopting artificial intelligence while demanding stronger intellectual property protections and more say in how the AI era unfolds.

South African Cultural Observatory Launches Updated South African Festival Economic Impact Calculator (SAFEIC) South African Cultural Observatory Launches Updated South African Festival Economic Impact Calculator (SAFEIC)

The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) released its latest SOUTH AFRICAN FESTIVAL ECONOMIC IMPACT CALCULATOR (SAFEIC) version 2.

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