South African Cultural Observatory

Institutional Partners


Hosted by

Nelson Mandela University

in partnership with

We are proud to be associated with
CSIR our future through science International Library of African Music
National Film and Video Foundation The Market Theatre
The Playhouse Company William Humphreys Art Gallery
Freedom Park  
State Theatre Sahra 
PACOFS Msundusi
Museum National Museum
National Arts Council of SA  Business and Arts South Africa
PAN South Africa Language Board  South African Library for the Blind
Die Afrikaanse Taalmuseum & Monument  KwaZulu-Natal Museum
National Library of South Africa  National English Literary Museum
BlindSA   
 Human Sciences Research Council  Nelson Mandela Museum
Arts Cape  Iziko Museums of SA 
Luthuli Museum  
More News
Beyond survival mode: How SACO’s 5th International Conference can reroute South Africa’s creative economy future Beyond survival mode: How SACO’s 5th International Conference can reroute South Africa’s creative economy future

Globally, but particularly in the Global South, we're keenly aware of how funding, policy, and economic pressures impact the creative and sports economy sectors.

Women in Live Music Shine in Cape Town Celebration Women in Live Music Shine in Cape Town Celebration

On Thursday, 8 August 2025, the Youngblood Gallery in Cape Town came alive with rhythm, colour, and powerful conversations as artists, researchers, and music lovers gathered for the Women in Live Music Dissemination Session.

Researching Cultural Policy: National and Comparative Perspective Researching Cultural Policy: National and Comparative Perspective

As part of celebrating Heritage Month, SACO hosted a Brazilian Professorial Mission to strengthen ties between Brazilian and South African universities and cultural research institutions.

Heritage Institutions Reimagined for a New Age Heritage Institutions Reimagined for a New Age

Every September, South Africans gather and celebrate Heritage Month. This is a time to reflect on the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and traditions that shape our nation.

Executive Direction - From the desk of Ms Unathi Lutshaba Executive Direction - From the desk of Ms Unathi Lutshaba

Preparations are in full swing for the highly anticipated 5th International Conference of the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO), scheduled for the 4th and 5th of November 2025.

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