Mpumalanga Mirror exclusively interviewed MEC for the Department of Culture, Arts and Recreation (DCSR), Leah Mabuza after the conclusion of the Mpumalanga Cultural Experience( MPUCE) events.
She spoke to Editor, Bongani Hlatshwayo:
What was your overall impression of the MGOMA?
MGOMA, as a stand-alone pillar, has in my view, it gave the people of Mpumalanga, in particular, and South Africa, in general the desired outputs and awareness to say a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. We saw Mpumalanga gospel artists coming from humble beginnings, being recognised and affirmed, however, more can still be done.
Do you reckon that the MGOMA can grow to tumultuous heights?
Of course, we must remember that the 2024 Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience, was the 9th edition, the collective impact of the 10 pillars of which MGOMA is one of them to continue to attract support from the length and breadth of South Africa and across its boarders.
Concerning the Mpumalanga Xperience in its entirety, what is your overall impression?
Firstly, I will upfront say, there is room for improvement; we are currently conducting an impact study analysis to indicate areas of work we may need to strengthen from planning to execution point of view. But my overall impression is that the Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience has, in relative terms contributed immensely to the DCSR core mandate to promote social cohesion and contribute in positioning Mpumalanga province as a tourism destination of choice, through our rich cultural heritage imbued with majestic waterfalls, unique fauna and flora making Mpumalanga province, the place of the rising sun, an eternal wonder. Together living no one behind, we take Mpumalanga Tourism forward!
Does it benefit local artists performing alongside experienced artists? Are there any workshops held to empower them?
Of course, the Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience platform has put local artists as our strategic targets of empowerment, motivation and mentorship programme.
What does the future hold for arts development in the province?
The future for arts development in the province is promising, only if we can sustain the current momentum but we are deliberate in creating more space for community and public sector participation, because promotion of cultural heritage and arts development should be everybody’s business.
