KDI Report - South African Music Awards
The South African Music Awards (SAMAs) are the premier awards for the music industry in the country, regarded by some as the South African equivalent of the US Grammy Awards. 2016 was the 22nd year of the Awards, held in Durban on the 4th of June. According to organisers, the main aims of the SAMAs are: to promote local music; to recognise the contribution made by musicians to the music and entertainment industry; and to showcase South Africa’s rich cultural diversity and history through music. The 2016 SAMAs were attended by 4160 people, with the venue at full capacity. An analysis of Google Trends data showed that 2016 generated a record number of searches, indicating increased public interest. 
Cultural and sports impact on the economy can and should be measured, valued
GOVERNMENT strategic foresight is a powerful thing when it takes flight. Take the Mzansi Golden Economy Strategy (2011) – which gave birth to the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO), hosted by Nelson Mandela University since 2015 – for example.
Minister Zizi Kodwa unveils new award ceremony: “The South African Creative Arts Awards”
The South African Creative Arts Awards will be the be most desired recognition and cultural recognition in the South African creative industry. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture intends to hold the South African Creative Arts Awards annually.
Research week
Nelson Mandela University hosted their second annual Research Week on 11-15 September 2023 as part of their continued effort to foster engagement and partnership to contribute to the research culture within the institution.
Honouring Mandela - A Day To Give
On Mandela Day, Gelvandale High School hostel received assistance from the South African Cultural Observatory, Nelson Mandela University, and other various organizations.
SAMA Professionalisation Workshop 21 - 22 August 2023
The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) took part in a discussion with the stakeholders in the Museum industry on the professionalization of heritage in South Africa. The discussion was aimed at finding ways to professionalize the work Museums do in SA. The Museum stakeholders would like their work to be qualified by SAQA so that when they enroll students, they (students) can come out with a qualification that is graded.
