The Ministry of Tourism and Arts notes that the last twenty – five years have seen the Arts grow from a hobby to a sector large and impactful enough to be considered as an economic pillar of the country.
Ministry of Tourism and Arts Permanent Secretary Dr. Howard Sikwela says the Government’s vision for the arts is that they should be a key pillar in the economic transformation agenda.
Dr. Sikwela says the art sector increases the job creation and contribution to the economy beyond the current levels.
He says the Government envisions the arts will be key in creating a strong national identity and values and that as a country we will be reunited through the power of the arts.
Speaking during the media briefing in Lusaka organized by the National Arts Council, Dr. Sikwela said the Council has decided to take time this year to reflect, celebrate, engage and grow together with its stakeholders.
“The last twenty – five years would not have been this great a journey without the support of these many members of our society. The Zambian arts are what they are today because of their support and efforts. Special mention goes to the media that are present here today, and those that have gone before. They have supported the arts through and through. In fact, it is generally agreed that the media can break or make you. We are especially grateful to the media, who even when in a position to destroy have preferred to build and encourage our artists,” he said.
He says the celebrating and investing in the arts in Zambia is an urgent and present need.
Dr. Sikwela has observed the need to shift the role of the arts and acknowledge the importance of creativity in the social and economic lives.
“Celebrating the arts will enable us to recognise and award those that continue to work hard to ensure the arts maintain their position in the arts. Investing in the arts on the other hand, will enable the sector to grow to levels that are comparable to global standards. It is about highlighting the value that the arts are generating in the country,” he said.
Dr. Sikwela says investing in the arts is about shifting the attitude as Zambians towards the role to support the arts through buying of artistic products and services, avoiding piracy, attending artistic events and promoting the arts wherever they may be.
Speaking at the same event, NAC Chairperson Patrick Samwimbila believes that with all they have done together and the current Government aspirations, they can do more if they focus on investing in the arts.
“At the Council, we see the arts as central to the Governments’ diversification agenda. We see a window of opportunity now, to take the arts forward through increased investments in arts infrastructure, arts education, arts production, marketing and export. The arts are the single most distinguishing aspect of our identity. They give us the comparative advantage,” he said.

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