Arts and Sports Funding
South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, is spearheading a drive for greater transparency. In a groundbreaking move, McKenzie plans to disclose the names of artists and athletes receiving government funding, aiming to ensure fairness and address complaints about past unequal fund distribution.
Publishing Beneficiary Names
McKenzie aims to end preferential treatment, ensuring government grants benefit more than just a select few. He ordered the publication of a comprehensive list of all beneficiaries, including amounts received and reasons for the funding.
McKenzie’s Statement
“I have given an instruction that a list be published of artists, creatives, and sportspeople who have been receiving money from the department, inclusive of amounts and reasons. The time where only a connected few benefit is over,” McKenzie declared.
Arts and Sports Funding: Supporting Local Artists
Demonstrating his commitment to the cause, McKenzie has pledged to donate his first salary to a struggling art gallery in Kagiso. During his visit, he underscored the challenges faced by three local artists and vowed to share his salary with them.
A Personal Gesture
“I told lawyers to give my first salary to this gallery so these three artists can share it. I listened to their problems and saw gratitude mixed with tears,” McKenzie revealed.
Highlighting the Challenges
McKenzie felt profound emotion hearing the artists’ stories in Kagiso. Their resilience in keeping the gallery open impressed him. One artist explained they often accept any price for their work due to lack of transportation money.
McKenzie’s Reflection
“I was deeply touched when the deputy minister of sport, arts, and culture told me about the plight of artists in Kagiso. I couldn’t believe they managed to keep this gallery open despite the many obstacles. It is truly heartbreaking for me,” McKenzie reflected.
Conclusion
Gayton McKenzie’s commitment to transparency and support for struggling artists represents a significant shift in the operations of the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture. By publishing the names of beneficiaries and personally donating his salary, McKenzie aims to foster a fairer and more accountable system.
Tags: Gayton McKenzie, Transparency, Government Funding, Artists, Athletes, Financial Support, Accountability, Kagiso Art Gallery, South Africa.