FINALLY: National arts council in the offing

Sharon Mathala
DEVELOPING CULTURE: Minister Rakgare

With the entertainment industry on its knees, torn by infighting and a lack of regulation, the announcement of the draft document of the National Arts Council Bill could mark a turning point in the industry’s fortunes.

The bill, scheduled to be presented to the National Assembly, is set to finally shape and promote the Arts and Culture sector as a way of diversifying the economy.

The council will contain 11 board members, including six qualifying members of the public and five from the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development.

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It will be responsible for registering Arts and Culture societies and companies as well as facilitating training and skills development within the sector.

The council will be further be tasked with “facilitating resource mobilization, distribution and investment in the Arts and Culture, facilitate programme development and implementation to promote local Arts and Culture as well as promote good corporate governance in the arts and culture sector, ” reads the draft bill.

According to the draft bill, each member shall hold office for a period of three years and is eligible for re-appointment for one further term.

However, individuals affiliated to a political party or movement will not be considered for the council.

“No person shall be appointed as a member if they have been adjudged or otherwise declared bankrupt or insolvent and has not been rehabilitated or discharged. (They) Should not be a member of the national Assembly, district or town council,” continues the draft.

“CEO shall be appointed by the minister on the recommendation of the board. The financial year of the council shall be a period of 12 months commencing on 1st April each year ending March the following year,” further reads the draft bill.

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