Zambia: The Government of Zambia has announced that they want to construct the ever National Arts Centre in the country. The administration has allocated the funds for the construction and shared the details and specifics of the construction.
The National Arts Centre will have a variety of facilities which would support and promote the creative industry. The Centre will have a theatre venue, library, cinema for film makers, an archive, and studio for filmmakers and music producers.
The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary in charge of Arts, Fumbe Chama was happy with the construction project. He said an additional K10 million has been channelled towards the rehabilitation of various arts infrastructure in the country.
Permanent Secretary in charge of Arts, Fumbe Chama recently officiated at a capacity building master class. The workshop was hosted for Theater Actors, Directors and writers from across the country.
At the event, he shared some details about the project with the participants of the masterclass. Chama said among the works will include rehabilitation of Lusaka Play House and Chingola Arts Society.
He said arts should strive to produce quality works that will entice national borders. He added that talent alone is not enough but needs to be nurtured through such training.
He said the government of the country recently approved the National Arts Policy. The policy will help sharpen talent by producing artists who can express themselves professionally beyond borders.
Further Chama disclosed that the ministry will next month launch the National Arts and Film policies The aim of the project is to further strengthen professionalism in the arts industry.
He said theatre is a good business but artists are failing to make money. Hence the government aims to support artists to navigate through their challenges and make the industry more profitable.
Mr Chama stated that the National Arts Council has signed an agreement with Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) to partner with production managers to produce content for live audiences.
He said this initiative will enable script writers, actors and directors to earn income through continuous use of content from such productions.
The people of the country are appreciating the initiatives taken by the government. One of the social media users said, “This sounds good. Authors. Writers have had a tough time to make their work known. I salute you my lovely PS. I hope if this is actualised zambia is bound for greatness in all aspects of the creativity of all art. Waiting for this can’t wait,! Congratulations.”