Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE country’s artistic watchdog, the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), has ushered in a new chapter of leadership, officially welcoming a freshly appointed Board of Directors tasked with steering the nation’s arts sector for the next four years.
The appointments were made by the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Honourable Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Anselem N. Sanyatwe, and received the approval of His Excellency, The President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa.
In a significant vote of confidence, Minister Sanyatwe has reappointed Dr Nozipo J. Maraire to serve a second term as Board Chairperson. This reappointment underscores the Minister’s belief in Dr. Maraire’s “transformative leadership,” which he credited with driving “significant change and growth” within the Council since her initial appointment in 2021.
“The appointment of this new board reflects the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture’s dedication to governance that blends strategic planning with close engagement with the creative community,” stated a release from the NACZ.
The Board’s mandate, running from 2025 to 2029 in accordance with the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act (Chapter 10:31), encompasses critical responsibilities.
These include shaping national arts policy, securing sustainable funding streams for the sector, and championing initiatives that foster industry growth while ensuring broad public access to arts programmes across Zimbabwe.
The newly constituted NACZ Board of Directors (2025-2029) comprises of Nozipo J. Maraire – Board Chairperson, Raphael P. Mhone, Brig. Gen. (Rtd) Richard Matambo, Ms. Gail Van Jaarsveldt, Tariro Washe, Takawira Maswiswi, Sibongile Ncube, Farai I. Mpfunya, Lawrence Mkwala, and Lucia Mkandhla.
The diverse expertise represented on the board, spanning administration, creative practice, business, and strategic leadership, is expected to be pivotal in navigating the opportunities and challenges facing Zimbabwe’s vibrant arts community.
The National Arts Council took the opportunity to express its deep appreciation to the outgoing board members.
“The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe sincerely thanks the outgoing board members for their committed service and valuable contributions during their tenure,” the Council stated, acknowledging their efforts in laying the groundwork for the sector’s continued development. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
