Artists lobby for share in budget

Artists have asked government to ensure the passing of the Arts and Cultural Heritage Council Bill in Parliament which they say will improve the sector in Malawi.

Speaking during the Pre-Budget Consultation Meeting in Lilongwe last week, Filmmakers Association of Malawi president Gift Sukez Sukali said the arts sector wants the Bill passed so that the council is established and improve funding to the sector.

“With adequate funding, the film industry can contribute both economic and cultural imperatives and its potential to create jobs and foster social cohesion,” he said.

Sukali also said the film industry has the potential to promote tourism in the country.

He said: “Given a chance, we can produce films for our beautiful land and places like lakes and valleys, mountains, hills, historical places and hotels.

“Film can be used as a tool for visibility of the country if we play our cards right and o proper marketing, we can have big film-makers to even come and shoot movies and create more jobs in many sectors.”

Sukali said research conducted by the National Statistical Office shows that arts and cultural activities are not thriving due to the absence of support.

“We, therefore, ask government to consider putting aside a finance package of not less than K3 billion for the forthcoming financial year to help the arts industry,” he said.

In a separate interview, Musicians Union of Malawi president Vita Chirwa said they would like to see a budget that is pro-people.

“We hope that our line ministry will get adequate funds to cater for our Welfare Fund, as well as for useful and educational foreign trips, which are often attended by fewer artists because of lack of funds,” he said.

Chirwa said they also want the Arts and Heritage Council Bill to be passed in the august House.

“If passed, musicians will finally be able to get their own budget allocation, and only then could we be in a position to present the government with our wish list,” he said.

On his part, Poetry Association of Malawi president Robert Chiwamba said poets want government to put in the budget enough allocation for Blantyre Cultural Centre renovations.

“We also want the government to ensure that the arts heritage council bill is passed in parliament,” he said.

National Theatre Association of Malawi president Max Chiphinga said as an association, they want government to increase funding to the office of Directorate of Arts so that it is able to reach and help more artists.

“We also expect more funding for the renovations at Blantyre Cultural Centre so that the place is up and running again,” he said.

Ministry of Finance is getting views from stakeholders on the 2023-24 National Budget.