This research focuses on measuring/ assessing the sustainability of these repeatedly funded projects/ programs, paying specific attention to the 9 MGE national Flagships.
The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC) initiated the Mzansi Golden Economy (MGE) program in 2011 to provide funding and support to a range of arts, culture and heritage initiatives, projects and events to achieve broader goals to contribute to employment creation, enhance skills development and promote the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs). The Flagships (national and provincial) are repeatedly funded signature or iconic cultural events (mainly festivals). This research focuses on measuring/ assessing the sustainability of these repeatedly funded projects/ programs, paying specific attention to the 9 MGE national Flagships. A mixed methods approach is adopted, integrating a desktop study, documentary analysis of 43 Flagships (including the 9 national Flagships) where documents were available from 2016, and an organizer survey. Four organizer surveys were completed and subjected to qualitative analysis.
The desktop study underscores the importance of Flagships. There is consensus that Flagships contribute to job creation, economic growth, social cohesion and nation-building; addressing the social and economic pillars of sustainability. The reliance on public funding is a key concern that is likely to undermine the long-term feasibility and sustainability of repeatedly funded events. Support from the private sector and donations are limited. Other concerns raised relate to crowding-out effects, double dipping and financial support for the CCIs being under pressure from disruptions and socio-economic competing demands.
The results from the documentary analysis show that there was substantial diversity in the amount of funding received, overall costs of hosting the events, number of persons employed, the number of service providers used and audience attendance. Most Flagships are in the performance and celebration cultural domain. Flagships were held in all provinces, with most in Gauteng. The objectives and impacts of the Flagships resonate with MGE goals. Several media platforms are used. Lack of funding and operational aspects are key challenges noted. Most Flagships did not have an active website. The main finding is the reliance on public sector (especially DSAC) funding.
The key recommendation is to rethink funding models/ approaches to improve long-term financial sustainability of the Flagships. The importance of partnerships that are sensitive to the diversity in the CCIs and changing funding environments are critical. In terms of social sustainability, more attention needs to be paid to audience development and increasing employment opportunities. Embracing and supporting green initiatives will also position the Flagships on sustainable pathways. The importance of monitoring and evaluation, including improved information management systems, is underscored.
