The Gauteng Provincial Government is committed to creating a conducive environment for artists to thrive in their craft, Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Lebogang Maile said on Thursday.
Maile said the department would continue to support the arts industry to succeed.
“We will continue supporting and investing in resources that will benefit artists,” said Maile, speaking at the celebratory event in honour of the province's artists who have done tremendously well in the industry.
The event which was held at the Emoyeni Conference Centre was graced by artists such as Hlomla Dandala, Kagiso Rakosa, Lillian Dube, Penny Lebyane, Simphiwe Dana as well as Florence Masebe among others.
Masebe, who is an actress, writer, TV anchor and motivational speaker, thanked the provincial government for supporting artists adding that the event was a good gesture of honour.
“With most artists and production companies based in Gauteng, it becomes even more important for the province to support the industry so that we are able to tell real South African stories with our own voices,” Masebe appealed.
Deputy Minister for the Department of Arts and Culture Joe Phaahla said that as the department, they were pleased to support artists and congratulated them for their sterling contribution to the South African arts industry throughout the years.
“We believe that the film industry is one the major areas where we can excel as a country,” said Phaahla.
According to the Department of Trade and Industry, South Africa's entertainment industry is valued at around R7.4 billion, with film and television generating more than R5.8 billion in economic activity each year.
