South African Cultural Observatory

Our Situation

Existing research in the creative industries sector is conducted on an ad-hoc basis and commissioned from different tiers of government, statutory institutions (NFVF, NAC and NHC), other government departments and agencies at all tiers (Stats SA, DTI, Tourism, economic development), however, there is insufficient data for many areas in the creative industries sector (for policy, evaluation, assessment and impact) and anecdotal case study data.

This creates a need for consolidation and development of statistical frameworks.

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EUNIC launches Spaces of Culture 2025, a call for cultural relations project proposals in Sub-Saharan Africa EUNIC launches Spaces of Culture 2025, a call for cultural relations project proposals in Sub-Saharan Africa

EUNIC – European Union National Institutes for Culture – have launched Spaces of Culture 2025, a call for proposals, supporting seven new cultural relations projects in Sub-Saharan Africa. The programme is an evolution of the European Spaces of Culture programme and prioritises collaboration, dialogue, and mutual learning between European and local partners. Spaces of Culture is part of the wider Africa-Europe Partnerships for Culture programme from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA), which aims to encourage cooperation between African and European artists, creators, and cultural professionals.

A Message from the Executive Director of SACO A Message from the Executive Director of SACO

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).

Minister McKenzie: VAR Coming to South Africa: McKenzie’s Bold Statement Minister McKenzie: VAR Coming to South Africa: McKenzie’s Bold Statement

Since being appointed as Minister of Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture (DSAC) in 2024, Minister Gayton McKenzie has been vocal about his vision for the department, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and the modernization of South Africa’s sports and cultural sectors. (VAR) technology to South African football.

Decent Work & Funding Issues within the Cultural-Creative Sector Decent Work & Funding Issues within the Cultural-Creative Sector

Prof. Willie Chinyamurindi addresses the challenges and opportunities within the creative and cultural industries, particularly in relation to decent work and funding.

AI in Advertising Forum AI in Advertising Forum

The AI in Advertising Forum sought to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the advertising and creative industries. Discussions centred around its impact on jobs, revenue, and service delivery.

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