Learning from other Arts Councils :: Mmegi Online

I am continuing with the discussion on the establishment of an Arts Council in Botswana. What can Arts Councils around the world teach us? Nearby we have the National Arts Council of South Africa. They have a vision: “to promote through arts, the free and creative expression of South Africa’s cultures.”

They also have a mission statement: “To develop and promote excellence in the arts”. I think most people can accept that South Africa has a diverse and thriving artistic community. Just looking at their literary festivals, which are many and in all corners of the country nowadays, one can be envious.

The National Arts Council of South Africa was established by legislation, the National Arts Council Act 1997. In that Act it stipulates that the council will be under the minister. It will include a representative elected from each province as well as members from a shortlist compiled by the minister. The chairperson of the council is elected by the council and should not be one of the provincial representatives.

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