EU boosts Matabeleland South arts scene with funding for creative initiatives

THE Culture Fund of Zimbabwe Trust, in partnership with the European Union (EU) Delegation to Zimbabwe, has unveiled an expansion of their ongoing CreativeACTIONs2 project.

A total of US$70 624 has been allocated to support eight transformative projects across Zimbabwe, with three originating from Matabeleland South, benefiting creatives in Plumtree, Gwanda, and Beitbridge.

Additional beneficiaries hail from Harare and Manicaland provinces.

This funding underscores the EU’s commitment to nurturing artistic expression, strengthening civil society, advocating for gender equality, and cultivating the talents of Zimbabwean artistes and cultural practitioners.

Building upon the success of the initial phase, where 47 projects collectively received US$797 852 in funding between June and August 2023, this latest round of support reaffirms the EU’s dedication to advancing artistic and cultural expressions, civil society, gender equality, and essential training and skills development programmes for arts and culture practitioners, as stated in their official statement.

“The diverse range of projects, currently in various stages of implementation, showcases the programme’s dedication to driving positive change and fostering a vibrant cultural landscape across the nation.

“The EU is committed to promoting cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue and recognises the profound impact of art and culture in transcending boundaries, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting inclusive societies. By supporting these innovative projects, the EU is not only investing in Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage but also empowering individuals and communities to express their unique identities and contribute to the nation’s socio-economic progress,” reads part of the statement.

CreativeACTIONs2 has already yielded inspiring success stories, with previous beneficiaries showcasing the transformative power of arts and culture.

Notable projects include:

Mazikhelela Craft Project (US$6 500): A women’s association specialising in handmade crafts and fine art materials. Based in Matabeleland South, the project aims to capacitate women and youths by training them in product development, ultimately contributing to poverty alleviation and boosting the local economy through craftwork.

Skill A Community “Digital Haven Project” (US$7 580): Focused on educating content creators on digital security and honing skills in content creation, especially targeting female creatives in the Matabeleland Region — Plumtree and Gwanda. The project aims to incorporate theoretical and practical sessions for safe use of digital platforms, content protection, and risk assessment.

Ethno Zimbabwe (US$8 700): Hosting the first Ethno Zimbabwe Music Camp, bringing together young traditional and folk musicians under 30 from Zimbabwe and across the globe. The camp aims to improve an appreciation of Zimbabwe’s cultural and traditional music and instruments, contributing to the nation’s representation in the global music sector.

Beitbridge Film Expo (US$8 778): A groundbreaking film expo challenging normative content distribution methods, aiming to scout talent and identify a new generation of film personnel in small cities. The expo will provide skills, showcase films through screenings, and invite film experts to share experiences and knowledge.

Promoting Disability Inclusion in Cultural Preservation through Filmmaking Project (US$9 102): A short film produced by people with disabilities, aiming to encourage persons with disabilities to make a living through creating films, thereby promoting a balanced society.

Creating and increasing showcase platforms for young people in urban and rural areas of Manicaland province (US$9 966): A collective engagement project to produce a handbook governing procedures of Arts Education initiatives, supporting inclusive talent identification and creative showcasing.

Canvas of my Identity (US$9 998): Creating 20 artistic mixed media paintings to stimulate intergenerational dialogue on national healing, peace building, and social cohesion in Zimbabwe.

Mbare Festival (US$10 000): The festival aims to redefine new narratives in the arts and culture sector, utilising spaces of proximity to enhance skill exchange and facilitate healthy conversations, particularly focusing on children and young people.