South African arts and culture have been identified as a key mechanism to “promote the cultural diversity of our society and for bringing people together”; “to consolidate community and national pride, positive social values, as well as economic development, including tourism”.   This was amongst the information that President Zuma shared with representatives of the industry at a feedback meeting to this sector initiated by the Presidency during November.

The promotion of local content development, the protection of intellectual property rights; the devastating effects of piracy  and counterfeiting which robs artists and businesses of an income; rural and youth development through the arts and culture were some of the many issues on which feedback was given.

The President also encouraged artists to continue to play a constructive role in informing society and invoking debate through their work. “The cultural industry must prove, just like sports, that it can be a sustainable form of making a living”, he said.

To read the full speech, visit http://www.info.gov.za/speeches/2009/09111714251001.htm

(Source: The Presidency, 17 November 2009)