CABINET APPROVAL OF THE NATIONAL ARTS & FILM POLICIES
The President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, called for the 1st Cabinet Meeting in the Year 2024, on Monday, 22nd January 2024, at the State House, to deliberate on policy and legislative matters that are supposed to facilitate socio-economic development for the good of the people.
The cabinet made the following decisions, particularly on the long-awaited National Arts and Film policies:
8. Approval of Policies:
(a) The National Arts Policy.
Cabinet approved the Revised National Arts Policy and its Implementation Plan. The arts sector must be well guided through a comprehensive policy and legal framework, to stimulate and facilitate its meaningful growth. It has been realised that in the past, the sector was faced with several challenges which included limited growth and unfavourable working conditions for the artists. These challenges, consequently, have undermined the development of the arts sector thereby reducing its capacity to effectively contribute to national development.
The implementation of the Revised National Arts Policy will, therefore, promote the growth of the arts sector, increase utilization of digital technologies, promote investment and development of the arts infrastructure and spaces, promote research for the development of the sector, strengthen the legal framework for a thriving arts value chain and ensure that national values, principles and identity are promoted.
(b) The National Film Policy.
Another Policy approved by the Cabinet is the Revised National Film Policy and its Implementation Plan. The Policy aims to provide policy direction on the development of the film industry in Zambia through the provision of the legal framework, film infrastructure and equipment, structured coordination mechanism, adequate skills, and financial and technical support.
Further, the Policy will also address other emerging issues surrounding the film industry which include, rampant digital piracy affecting film-maker profits, lack of access to local content in different markets and ensuring that film organisations operate in a structured manner.
The film industry, if well developed, has greater potential to attract investment in the industry and contribute to Zambia being an attractive film destination, as well as contribute to job creation and improved livelihoods of those involved in arts.
Hon. Elvis Nkandu, MP
Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts