Strengthening local cultural policy
The project aims to strengthen the governance in the creative sector in the local districts of Beitbridge, Mangwe, Matobo and Mzingwane, through activities of capacity building, policy development and the creation of new markets and cooperation networks.
Amagugu International Heritage Centre (AIHC) is a non-governmental organization committed to documenting and promoting indigenous culture.
- The contribution of cultural goods, services and activities to local economic development in the four districts is mapped.
- The capacities of councillors and council officials in the four Rural District Councils (RDC) in promoting the socio-economic value of the creative sector are strengthened.
- Policy and strategy documents for the development of creative industries in the four RDCs are developed.
- The creation, production and distribution of cultural goods, services and activities within minority ethnic communities in the four districts are increased.
- Mechanisms of cooperation among artists and cultural practitioners within the four RDCs, District Arts Officers and the Matabeleland South Provincial National Arts Council Office are established.
- Mapping the creative sector with the participation of over 150 artists and cultural practitioners.
- Developing the capacities of 55 councillors and 12 RDC officials with knowledge and information on the value of the creative sector.
- Introducing local cultural policies and strategies.
- Establishing 8 new markets and networks for artists across different fields of the arts.
- Contributes to evidence-based cultural policy making in Zimbabwe – both the mapping exercise and the consultation/review workshops on the policy documents with arts and cultural practitioners, RDC councillors, officials, community-based organisations and civic society organisations in the arts and culture sector are instrumental in ensuring the implementation of an effective cultural policy in Zimbabwe.
- Reinforces professional capacities by providing training to councillors and council officials on the value of the creative sector – The workshops will raise the awareness of policy makers and officials on how local authorities can play a significant role in promoting the creative sector in collaboration with artists, District Art Officers and Provincial National Arts Council.
- Fosters cooperation and partnerships among governmental and civil society actors in cultural and creative industries – the participation and involvement of a broad array of stakeholders across sectors highlights the inclusive approach of the project and strengthens the role of civil society in policy making and implementation.