By: David Shoombe
With mental breakdowns among gifted Namibian talents, at times as a result of unrecognised efforts of well-crafted music, poems, and artifacts, the government and central bank have entered the stage to revive these talents.
Bank of Namibia’s recently concluded 26th Annual Symposium under the theme ‘Unleashing the Power of the Creative Industries: A Catalyst for Economic Development’ brought to light how Namibian talents ought to be recognised, valued, and funded.
The Namibian Presidency has indicated that the elevation of the creative industry to a national priority is one step to allow Namibian talents to contribute positively to the economic development of the country.
In President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s keynote speech address, delivered on her behalf by Education Minister Sanet Steenkamp, the President communicated that at the global level, the creative industry contributes about US$2.3 trillion dollars annually and employs over 6% of the workforce.
Nandi-Ndaitwah stated that the government is aware of structural barriers in the creative industry, such as limited access to funding and weak intellectual property.
Speaking to the government’s planned allocation of N$50 million to the creative sector, Namibian musician Big Ben shared that creatives have not been consulted on which areas of the industry require interventions, and how these interventions could be implemented effectively.
Big Ben highlighted the dilapidated state of some cultural halls and venues around the country, which make it impossible for artists to rehearse and advance their talents.
Bank of Namibia governor Johannes !Gawaxab cited the central bank’s support of the creative sector through the Instant Payment Platform (IPP) to empower freelancers and small creative businesses to thrive.
The governor further noted the rethinking of intangible assets to allow artists, performers, storytellers, and various professionals in the creative sector access to finance.
“We must confront what has hindered our progress, such as access to finance, disorganisation within the sector, and a dearth of opportunities,” said Gawaxab.
The panel discussions highlighted challenges of the creative industry and how to use technology as leverage.
Poet Frida Mukufa indicated the importance of technology in talent utilisation among creative industry performers.
Mukufa stated that with the use of technology, creatives just need “a place in the comfort of their homes and to send content.”
The creative sector discussion looked at deep economic inequality and inadequate infrastructures limiting arts and culture from being effectively utilised to contribute to national development.
Bana Xamaro, a dancer, stated that “no matter how good we are as dancers, we are hardly recognised, and the treatment and wages are discouraging.”
Xamaro indicated that “We are the reason music videos are a hit, but we’re less valued. I have seen some dancers paid with alcohol, food or clothes, but that is not what we need,” she indicated.
She added that she has heard about the N$50 million allocated to the industry, but questioned “how is it going to reach us?”
