Unima research to explore arts sector economic potential

It has been stated more than once that the arts sector has potential to contribute to the country’s economic growth.

But no figures backed by scientific research, are projected.

It is against this background that the University of Malawi has launched a research to map the arts and culture industry.

In an interview, one of the lead researchers associate professor Zindaba Chisiza said the research will focus on five key arts facets of performing arts, visual arts and craft, media arts and cultural heritage.

“To spur structural changes, policy interventions and fast-track growth of the arts industry, we need to unearth its real economic potential. And that is what this research will do,” he said.

Chisiza, who leads the project alongside another Unima lecturer Gowokani Chijere Chirwa, said  they will find out how many people are employed in the targeted arts sector, how much money they make and economies of music and cultural festivals, among others.

“We will also identify opportunities and unearth how these can be utilised for the greater good,” he said.

Chisiza, who is the lecturer at the School of Arts, Communication and Design at Unima, said they will start with preliminary meetings with key stakeholders in the arts industry for.

“Although we know what we want to achieve, we want their buy-in to enrich the process. The stakeholders will also have a sense of ownership since they will be crucial during the research as well as implementation stages of the process,” he said.

Chisiza said the key findings will spur growth of the industry as it will unlock support and necessary changes in terms of structure and policy.

Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Wildlife spokesperson Symon Mbvundula said in an interview they are looking forward to participate in the study.

He said: “We have for a long time been debating about the economic potential of the arts sector. Now, we will be backed by a credible research from the University of Malawi. This will for sure assure possible funders to embrace the sector. It will also give directions to government in terms of policies that can spur growth.”  

The research project will take place for five months to the tune of K117 million. It has been funded by Rel Foundation Limited of New Zealand, which has a long history of supporting the arts sector in Malawi. The foundation once funded Nazikambe Arts a folkfore project. It also funds some projects at Music Crossroads.