ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CITY AWARDS FUNDING TO ARTS, CULTURE AND FILM SECTOR BENEFICIARIES
Durban's arts, culture and film sectors received a major boost today as eThekwini Municipality awarded funding to 28 beneficiaries, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing creative talent, preserving cultural heritage and growing the City's creative economy.
The funding was awarded during a ceremony held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre through the Municipality’s Arts and Culture Grant-in-Aid Programme, the Micro Budget Film Fund and the Film Development Fund.
The programmes are designed to empower organisations to implement initiatives that promote artistic excellence, talent development, job creation and sustainable economic growth.
Funding allocations ranged from R100 000 to R1.2 million, depending on the scope, scale and developmental impact of the approved projects.
The beneficiaries were selected through a rigorous adjudication process following a public call for applications.
This ensured that funding was directed towards projects demonstrating measurable impact, sustainability and alignment with the Municipality’s vision of fostering a vibrant, inclusive and thriving arts and culture landscape.
Chairperson of the Community Services Committee, Councillor Zama Sokhabase, congratulated the beneficiaries and highlighted the vital role that the arts, culture and film industries play in preserving heritage, promoting social cohesion, creating employment opportunities and positioning Durban as a leading cultural and creative destination.
“We encourage all beneficiaries to utilise these resources responsibly, deliver impactful programmes and continue inspiring positive change within the communities they serve. We regard this funding not merely as financial support, but as a strategic investment in people, communities and the future of our City,” said Councillor Sokhabase.
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, founder of the KwaMashu Community Advancement Projects, Dr Edmund Mhlongo, expressed appreciation to eThekwini Municipality for its continued investment in the creative sector.
“We sincerely appreciate the Municipality’s support. This funding will enable organisations to continue developing artists and creatives, preserving cultural heritage and creating meaningful opportunities for communities. The Municipality’s commitment demonstrates confidence in the value and potential of the creative sector,” said Dr Mhlongo.
The Municipality remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen the creative economy and provide platforms for artists, filmmakers and emerging talent to flourish.
Through these funding programmes, eThekwini Municipality continues to invest in projects that contribute to social development, economic growth and the promotion of Durban’s rich cultural identity.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
