A workshop titled ‘’National Workshop on Enhancing Public Funding for Sustainable Growth in the Cultural Sector’’ was carried out yesterday at the National Archives and Library Agency. On opening of the workshop, which is part of the initiative of Connect for Culture Africa, that was attended by stakeholders including delegates from the Ministry of Culture and Sports, the National Archives and Library Agency, Ministry of Plan and Development, Policy Research Institute, Addis Ababa University etc Mr. Sisay, Project Director of Selam Ethiopia, discussed about Connect For Culture Africa, which advocates for allocating 1% of national budgets to the creative sector. He highlighted previously accomplished activities among which is the the formation of a 14-member working group led by H.E. Nefisa Almahdi and noted that a national baseline study on the status of public funding for the culture sector will be shared soon.
Dr. Yisma Tsige presented an awareness raising workshop on the creative sector’s potential for job creation and economic development, environmental sustainability and innovation, while pointing out the inadequate budget allocation of only 0.1% in 2015, leading to underutilization of talent and resources. He emphasized that decision-makers often lack experience in the sector.
In the discussion that followed as a response to the workshop, a participants raised concerns about insufficient budgets and high turnover of officials, which hampers officials understanding of the sector. Dr. Frehiwot questioned the qualifications of those in the sector, noting that many are politically appointed. She warned that current budget allocations for celebrations that have been tied to politics could lead to future funding shortages for the celebrations and emphasized the need to prevent this outcome.
Other participants also noted, culture’s role in conflict management. A participant from the Ethiopian Heritage Authority highlighted the lack of consistent leadership and structure in the cultural sector, which is often undervalued and underfunded…..from highlighted that the economic impact of the cultural sector is significant but underreported, particularly regarding its potential for tourism and international diplomacy
During group discussions, participants stressed the need for educated manpower and collaboration with higher education. They called for resource mapping and improved stakeholder connections, alongside better visibility of cultural initiatives to prevent budget cuts.
In conclusion, Mr. Sisay echoed the need for greater involvement, commitment and collaboration from the Ministry of Culture and Sport and other key actors and appreciated the workshop’s turnout and discussion.
