Minister McKenzie wants answers about millions set aside for struggling artists! Sport, Arts, and Culture Minister Gayton Mckenzie has announced a forensic investigation into the finances of the Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa (CCIFSA).
The minister revealed this during an address to the National Council of Provinces, stating the government must account for funds allocated to assist struggling artists.
Financial Mismanagement Allegations
The decision follows disputes over CCIFSA’s financial statements presented to Parliament’s portfolio committee. Questions were raised about the expenditure of R12 million allocated to the non-profit organization by the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture.
CCIFSA was established to promote and develop the social and economic interests of South Africa’s cultural and creative industries. However, it has faced repeated allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
Mckenzie’s Commitment to Transparency
Minister Mckenzie expressed his dissatisfaction with CCIFSA’s lack of accountability.
“CCIFSA has been getting money from the department for years, but never have they reported back. What are they doing with that money?” Mckenzie asked.
The minister declared that, for the first time, CCIFSA will not receive further funding until the forensic investigation clarifies how previous allocations were spent.
“At 10 a.m., I’m instituting a forensic investigation into what happened to all this money that was meant for the artists,” Mckenzie affirmed.
Standing Up for Struggling Artists
Mckenzie criticized the mismanagement of funds intended to support artists, emphasizing the importance of addressing corruption in organizations tied to the cultural and creative industries.
“It’s unacceptable that money meant to help the country’s artists is the subject of regular corruption allegations,” said Mckenzie. He highlighted that transparency and accountability are essential to rebuilding trust and supporting the nation’s cultural sectors.
Reforming the National Film and Video Foundation
In addition to investigating CCIFSA, Mckenzie has pledged to reform other organizations within the creative sector, including the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF).
“That was one of my first tasks as the new minister,” he said.
Mckenzie explained that the previous NFVF board had been dissolved and replaced with a new team. Additionally, the acting CEO was removed, and an interim CEO from the department was appointed until a permanent replacement could be selected.
These actions, according to Mckenzie, are part of a broader effort to clean up organizations responsible for supporting the creative industries.
The Role of CCIFSA in the Cultural Sector
CCIFSA was created as a platform to advance the interests of artists and creative professionals across South Africa. Its mandate includes:
- Promoting growth in cultural and creative sectors.
- Supporting struggling artists and ensuring their access to resources.
- Strengthening the creative economy as a means of job creation.
However, its alleged financial irregularities have hindered its mission, leaving many artists without the support they desperately need.
Artists Demand Accountability
The news of the investigation has sparked hope among struggling artists, who have long called for greater accountability in the management of industry funds. Many believe the probe could mark a turning point in addressing systemic corruption in cultural organizations.
“Artists work hard to bring our country pride and recognition, but funds meant for their development often disappear. This investigation is long overdue,” said one industry professional.
Looking Ahead
Minister Mckenzie’s decisive actions have drawn praise from some quarters as a much-needed step to restore integrity in the sector. However, the forensic investigation into CCIFSA and other reforms will need to produce tangible results to reassure stakeholders that systemic issues are being addressed.
As Mckenzie himself noted, the stakes are high: “The creative industries are critical to our national identity and economic growth. We must protect them from mismanagement and corruption.”
The forensic investigation and other structural reforms are expected to provide clarity on how funds have been utilized and whether systemic changes are needed to prevent future financial mismanagement.
The post Minister McKenzie wants answers about millions set aside for struggling artists appeared first on News365.co.za.
Zim Instantly via Simplex Solutions