Ethiopia prioritizes preserving its cultural heritage despite financial challenges. The “Connect for Culture Africa” initiative, by Selam and the African Union, aims to allocate 1% of national budgets to culture by 2030. Baseline studies on public funding and stakeholder mapping support efforts for cultural development and financial sustainability.

Zimbabwe’s national budget significantly impacts the cultural sector, but artists and cultural professionals have shown limited participation in the budget process. Despite some funding for culture, its impact is difficult to assess due to the lack of a clear system for allocation. Improved stakeholder engagement, transparency, and accountability are essential for effective cultural development.

The study analyzes public investment in Uganda’s culture sector, identifying key stakeholders for enhanced lobbying. Conducted by CfCA and Selam in collaboration with the African Union, it explores baseline data, actor mapping, and government funding trends, proposing strategies to increase public funding to 1% of the national budget.

African Union Member States are committed to allocating 1% of national budgets to arts, culture, and heritage by 2030. Cultural and creative industries (CCIs) in Zambia, like elsewhere, drive economic growth through sectors such as performing arts and publishing. Strengthening cultural entrepreneurship can help Zambia harness its CCIs’ full potential despite current challenges.

This report presents key outcomes from the Connect for Culture Africa (CfCA) Regional Network Meeting held on February 16, 2025, in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Bringing together 40 stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, and the creative sector, the meeting advanced CfCA’s advocacy for increased public investment in the cultural and creative industries (CCIs). The report captures strategic discussions on aligning regional and national policy agendas, reframing culture as an economic driver, and prioritizing evidence-based advocacy. It outlines a roadmap for 2025, policy recommendations, and priority action areas to strengthen the creative sector’s role in sustainable development across Africa.