Thami AkaMbongo Manzana: A solution to organize Cultural and Creative Industries in South Africa.

The South African Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa (CCIFSA) was established with the aim of creating a unified voice and structure for the cultural and creative industries.

However, since its formation, CCIFSA has faced criticism for deviating from its original mandate and failing to establish sector councils.

This article explores the significance of sector councils in organizing the creative industries, examines the historical and recent developments under CCIFSA, and evaluates Minister Gayton McKenzie’s approach to sector coordination and regulation.

The Original CCIFSA Mandate and Missed Opportunities

The CCIFSA Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI), developed in 2014 by its interim committee, envisioned the establishment of sector councils as a cornerstone of its mandate.

These councils were intended to represent and organize various sub-sectors within the creative industries, including music, theatre, visual arts, craft, film, and digital media.

The MOI identified 11 sector councils that were to address the specific needs and challenges of their respective fields:

1. Creative Workers Council

2. Cultural Industry Council

3. Interactive Media Industry Council

4. Theatre and Dance Industry Council

5. Craft Industry Council

6. Print Media Council

7. Architecture and Design Industry Council 8. Music Industry Council 9. Advertising Industry Council 10. Events and Technical Support Industry Council 11. Professional Services Industry Council

Despite this clear directive, the leadership of CCIFSA between 2015 and 2019 failed to prioritize the establishment of these councils.

 Instead, their focus shifted to provincial structures, deviating from the sector-driven vision that was foundational to the organization. This strategic misstep delayed the progress needed to create a cohesive and functional framework for the industry.

Minister Gayton McKenzie’s Bosberaad and Sector Classification

Recognizing the fragmentation within the cultural and creative industries, Minister Gayton McKenzie convened a Bosberaad to address pressing issues, including sector coordination, regulation, and immediate needs.

The Bosberaad introduced a new classification of 16 sectors to better organize the industry:

1. Theatre, Musical Theatre & Opera

2. Dance

3. Music

4. Spoken Word, Poetry, Storytelling, Stand-Up Comedy 5. Circus (including Magic, Illusion, Puppetry), Mime & Improvisation 6. Exhibitions, Events, Festivals, Technical Productions 7. Visual Arts 8. Craft 9. Books and Publishing (Content Development and Creation) 10. Books and Publishing (Manufacturing and Distribution) 11. Film, Cinema, and Television 12. New Media 13. Animation & Gaming 14. Product, Industrial & Fashion Design 15. Architectural Design 16. Communication Design

While Minister McKenzie’s approach may not align with CCIFSA’s original framework, it represents a decisive step toward addressing long-standing structural challenges. His focus on sector-specific councils, rather than provincial structures, aligns with the initial vision of CCIFSA and the broader needs of the industry.

Criticism and Constructive Reflection

It is important to acknowledge both the progress and shortcomings of this approach.

Stakeholders may disagree with:

– The pace and speed of implementing sector councils.

– The manner and methods of engagement used to achieve this goal.

– The sector classification, which might not fully reflect the unique dynamics of South Africa’s creative industries.

However, there is merit in recognizing the intention to create a more inclusive and coordinated industry structure.

By moving toward sector councils, the creative industries can benefit from greater representation, collaboration, and policy advocacy.

Learning from Established Structures

Existing structures like the South African Screen Federation (SASFED) in film and television and the South African Music Industry Council (SAMIC) in music provide valuable lessons.

 These organizations have demonstrated the importance of sector-specific coordination in addressing industry challenges. Strengthening such frameworks and aligning them with national sector councils can lead to greater impact and sustainability.

In Closing: A Balanced Perspective

The establishment of sector councils is not a new idea, but it is a necessary one.

Credit must be given to Minister McKenzie for reviving this critical conversation and initiating steps toward structural reform. At the same time, constructive criticism should be welcomed to ensure that the process is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the diverse needs of the cultural and creative industries.

By embracing a collaborative approach, South Africa’s cultural and creative sectors can achieve the unity and strength needed to thrive locally and globally.

Sector councils remain a viable solution to organize, professionalize, and uplift the creative industries in South Africa. It is now up to all stakeholders to build on this momentum and make the vision a reality.

Thami AkaMbongo Manzana
thami@akambongo.co.za
AkaMbongo Foundation Pty Ltd
http://www.akambongo.co.za

Disclaimer: Artslink.co.za encourages freedom of speech and the expression of diverse views. The views published do not necessarily represent the views of Artslink.co.za.

Thami AkaMbongo Manzana writes on his personal capacity.