Z’bar urged to preserve culture, expand creative economy

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR’S Minister for Information, Arts, Culture and Sports, Dr Riziki Pembe Juma, has called on the public to protect the islands’ cultural heritage while supporting the growth of creative industries to benefit present and future generations.

He was speaking during a visit to artists and entrepreneurs involved in cultural and creative activities in Wete and Micheweni districts in the isles.

The visit was part of activities to launch the 31st Zanzibar Cultural Festival week, which seeks to promote and preserve the islands’ rich cultural heritage.

She said Zanzibar’s culture was an important repository of history and identity and should be preserved using modern methods to ensure it remains accessible to future generations.

The minister also emphasised the economic potential of the arts, saying the sector should not be viewed solely as entertainment but also as a source of employment and income.

“Art is employment, art is the economy, and art is also a means of promoting our culture and improving people’s economic well-being,” Dr Riziki said.

She urged artists to develop innovative products and styles that respond to market demands, enabling them to secure reliable markets and increase the value of their work.

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Dr Riziki directed ministry officials to work closely with artists and other stakeholders to create a conducive environment for nurturing talent and preserving Zanzibar’s artistic heritage.

She also stressed the need to ensure veteran artists receive royalties to which they are entitled.

The minister called on communities to work with the government to protect and promote arts and culture, while thanking President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, for supporting development of the sector.

She said the ministry would continue using modern methods to preserve artistic and cultural works as an important record of Zanzibar’s history.

Artists and entrepreneurs visited during the tour said the creative sector should be recognised as a source of employment and protected in a manner that respects Zanzibar’s traditions, customs and cultural identity.

One entrepreneur, Awena Hamad Khamis of Bopwe Mibunini, encouraged women to engage in artistic and entrepreneurial activities to improve their economic circumstances and household incomes.

The 31st Zanzibar Cultural Festival provides a platform for showcasing and promoting the islands’ cultural heritage and creative industries.