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.
Heritage Month has been a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural heritage in shaping our collective identity and promoting cross-cultural understanding. Two notable events marked this quarter's achievements:
Women's Month and #GQFirstThursday : The inaugural event, themed "Creative Waves: Women who Move Like Water," featured remarkable women making waves in the maritime and creative economies, contributing to the thriving Mzansi Golden Economy. Interestingly, artistic expression and creativity in these sectors know no gender boundaries, with approximately half of those working in these sectors being women globally, as reported by UNESCO.
From Literacy to Literature: Bridging the Gap: Held during National Book Week, this event explored the power of literacy and reading with best-selling author Khaya Dlanga, emphasising the importance of books and literature in our cultural heritage. As we celebrated literacy week, we are also remember the words of President Cyril Ramaphosa that “Early reading is the basic foundation that determines a child’s educational progress, through school, through higher education and into the workplace”.
SACO's strategic vision is rooted in democratic principles, emphasising collaboration, creative empowerment, and cultural heritage promotion. SACO Executive Director Ms. Unathi Lutshaba encourages those involved in the arts, culture, heritage, and sports to nurture these sectors, stating, "People need these sectors. These sectors are the soul of the country, and they need to be developed and protected."
Sports play a crucial part in these sectors, as they promote social welfare, environmental well-being, and economic development . Sustainability in sports is key, with many organisations focusing on environmental sustainability, social sustainability, and economic sustainability.
As we look to the future, SACO reaffirms its vision for a diverse and inclusive creative economy that uplifts all South Africans. Together, let's build a Moving Mzansi that showcases our nation's unparalleled creativity and resilience. By nurturing our cultural and creative industries, we can ensure a brighter future for generations to come.
FOR A decade, SACO has made the case that South Africa's cultural and creative industries (CCIs) count. Between July and September, that case was put to work in the rooms where capital is allocated, partnerships are signed and the law is argued.
Over the past three months, I have had the privilege of participating in conversations across South Africa and internationally, from Geneva and London to Gqeberha and Johannesburg. Although the settings differed, one observation remained remarkably consistent: The conversation about the creative economy has changed.
Maps. Masterclasses. Measurement. Meaning. March. This quarter has been all about activating the research trove and expertise of the South African Cultural Observatory and levelling up in the dissemination of our data and insights.
