27 Feb 2017

Parliament on Friday adjourned debate of a motion requesting government to establish a creative economy policy aimed at encouraging employment creation in the creative sector such as literature, television and radio production, music and performing arts.

The motion was presented by Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) legislator, Dr Phenyo Butale, who argued that the creative sector was among the most dynamic worldwide.

He said if a policy could be formulated to enable government to invest resources into developing the sector, the country would benefit massively in terms of employment creation and revenue collection.

“It will create employment opportunities and at the same time contribute to social inclusion and cultural diversity.

It will also result in personal development, growth of self-esteem and skills,” Dr Butale explained.

However, the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development, Mr Thapelo Olopeng said the motion was asking for something already being worked on by his ministry and that of Employment, Labour Productivity and Skills Development.

Mr Olopeng explained that government has made commitment to develop the creative sector.

He said a technical committee has already been assembled by the two ministries and given mandate to work on developing a strategy on how to further develop the sector.

“Government has long recognised value of the creative industry and its role in employment creation. The strategy will enhance the level of growth of the creative industry and it will seek to promote the development of talent and creativity,” the minister said before moving for the adjournment of the motion to allow the two ministries to develop the strategy as planned. ENDS