The government has unveiled an E3.86 million mobile stage unit aimed at strengthening Eswatini’s creative economy,

lowering production costs for artists and regional festivals, and stimulating business opportunities through the country’s growing arts and culture sector.

The mobile stage, procured by the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) using part of an E3,860,000 allocation for sound equipment and a specialised vehicle,

is expected to improve access to professional event infrastructure while creating new economic opportunities for creatives, event organisers and small businesses.

Officially launching the mobile stage, Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima said the investment signalled Government’s commitment to developing an arts industry capable of competing on the international stage.

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“It is a great honour and privilege to join you today at the official launch of the mobile stage unit.

This is indeed a proud moment, not only for Eswatini creatives, but for the arts and culture sector,” said Nzima.

He said the investment marked an important step towards professionalising the country’s creative industry, adding that local artists should ultimately be recognised internationally and earn sustainable incomes from their work.

“Today’s occasion shows that the arts industry is moving towards international standards, where our artists will be recognised abroad and earn a living through their craft,” he said.

Nzima said ENCAC’s decision to invest in mobile staging infrastructure would significantly reduce operational costs for regional festivals, allowing artists to access professional equipment at rates far below commercial prices.

“The purchase of the mobile stage equipment is an important step because it will strengthen regional programmes for creatives.

The mobile stage will also help make regional festivals more successful for artists, as they will be able to use the equipment at lower costs than commercial rates,” he said.

He noted that the stage had already been deployed successfully during the Lubombo Regional Festival, held under the National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA). He would now be rolled out across all regions to improve the quality of cultural events.

The minister also underscored the wider economic value of investing in the creative sector, saying festivals generate business for local enterprises, create employment and contribute to economic growth.

“Such equipment will also boost the economy because festivals help to grow local businesses and create jobs,” he said.

He added that the government remains committed to attracting private sector investment into festivals to make them commercially sustainable while preserving and promoting Swati culture.

“On behalf of His Majesty’s Government, we remain dedicated to supporting the arts and culture sector because we see the vital role it plays in growing the economy, creating jobs, and raising our country’s reputation abroad,” said Nzima.

“As I conclude, let me once again congratulate the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture for their ongoing efforts to create a supportive environment for our creatives.

Building more opportunities for artists will help them succeed, and we believe that one day, our artists will be celebrated abroad and be able to earn a good living through their craft,” said Nzima.