King's birthday artists clueless about fees

MBABANE – Uncertainty engulfs artists regarding how much each of them will be paid for performing at the King’s birthday celebrations.

The artists have still not received any payment for their services at the celebrations almost four months ago. Some of the artists interviewed yesterday said they had no idea how much they were supposed to get.

"We were just called and told to go to Lobamba to practice for the King’s birthday celebrations. We obliged because we love our culture and were happy that our talents were recognised. We were told that we would receive payments after the celebrations but were not told much. Up to today we have not received anything and sadly, we do not even know where or who to go to for assistance," said Masikane Simelane.

He further said it was a sad case because their South African counter parts had long received their money. SWAMA President, Mshikishi Mndzebele said: "I was promised E2 000, but up to today I have not received anything. The sad part is we never even signed any contracts. We just went to Lobamba where we were called to practice and were told we would get paid. The arts and culture council says the matter is being handled by the Ministry for Home Affairs, but we do not know whom to contact when we get there. Being an artist in Swaziland does not pay. Siyahlupheka. (We are suffering)"

Sifiso Gama of the MJ Boyz also echoed the other artists’ words and said: "We really do not know how much we are waiting for and when we are ever going to receive it. We just received calls from Larry Mhlanga (Pelepele Director) telling us to go to Lobamba to practice. We have been waiting all this time. We were once told to go to home affairs, but we do not know who will help us when we get there."

When contacted Mhlanga said he was in no position to comment about the money and refused to state whether or not he had received payment.

"I was hired as a choreographer for the show. I was told to identify artists and that it was I did. I have no right to comment about the money," he said.

Ministry for Home Affairs Principal Secretary Mduduzi Magongo recently called for artists to be patient as they were doing their best to get them paid.

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