MINISTRY TO DIVERSIFY ROYAL PERFORMANCES SELECTION

MBABANE - The Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs has pledged to address the issue of repeatedly booking the same artists to perform for Their Majesties.
This commitment follows an inquiry from Princess Ncengencenge regarding the lack of diversity in performers. In a report from the portfolio committee dated August 27, she asked, “Why do we always have one and the same artists performing in front of Their Majesties? When will other artists be allowed to showcase their skills or get an opportunity to perform for Their Majesties?” In response, the ministry acknowledged the concern in a written statement, promising to engage with relevant stakeholders moving forward.

“As a ministry, we assure the senator and the entire committee that this will be addressed with relevant stakeholders, as many events have organisers who do not involve the ministry in the preparations. However, we assure Parliament that this will be resolved amicably going forward,” the ministry’s response read. Local musicians and event organisers, including Sibusiso Simelane, Lady Sphesh, Obsession, and seasoned MC Tjovitjo, shared their suggestions regarding the ministry’s undertaking to Parliament. This was prompted by the ministry’s recent commitment to address the situation. “If it aligns with policy and can ensure the development of the creative industry, it needs to be supported.

Showcase

All artists, both seasoned and upcoming, deserve a chance to showcase their talents before Their Majesties. However, we need to enhance the development of our artists from all angles so that they can professionalise their craft. All artists should be supported to deliver performances worthy of a royal stage. I would like to encourage artists to work hard on their craft,” Tjovitjo said. Upscale Live Manager Sibusiso ‘ThreeT’ Simelane also expressed scepticism about potential changes. “Does the ministry have a database of how many artists the country has? If not, then this won’t change anything. We will still see the same artists taking the stage because the ministry itself hasn’t made any effort to know about developing and established artists in this country.

Effort

Personally, I don’t see it working unless they first establish a way to connect with all artists and become familiar with their material. Not every artist doing music is good enough for that stage; it’s the most daunting platform, and only mature and experienced artists can handle it,” he said. Local spinner Obsession, who had the opportunity to perform during this year’s Swazi Rally, stated that this initiative could significantly benefit the industry. “This is a great initiative by the arts ministry as a way to grow the industry. It will help artists connect with the King and the authorities of the land. There are so many talented artists out there who would love to perform for the King. With this initiative, I believe artists will be compensated fairly,” he said. Songstress Lady Sphesh, who is currently making waves with her fresh release ‘Zigade’, believes the new development is a positive one, especially in allowing other artists to perform for Their Majesties.

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