A new regional initiative, Connect for Culture Africa, will officially launch in Ethiopia

cfcafrica / May 30, 2023

Angela Martins, Head of Culture Division, African Union and Teshome Wondimu, Executive Director, Selam

The expert meeting yielded crucial insights across diverse facets of the CfCA work plan presented. Participants emphasized the vital role of innovative research approaches, advocating for ideation workshops and hackathons, coupled with the strategic use of generation technologies to sustain project objectives. The overarching theme centered on embracing innovative research methods to magnify the overall impact of cultural projects.

Cultural empowerment through language emerged as an important focus, highlighting the transformative influence of sharing stories about Africa and promoting linguistic diversity. The noteworthy example of Zimbabwe translating its constitution into 14 languages underscored the tangible impact achievable through linguistic inclusivity.

Collaboration between government, civil society, and artists was a central theme, acknowledging the facilitative role of governments and the proactive engagement of civil society in policy implementation. The imperative of artists actively participating in the policy-making process was stressed, emphasizing the need for robust collaboration between government and civil society for effective cultural advancement.

The elevation of the creative industry to a sector featured prominently, with discussions acknowledging the substantial work required for official industry recognition. Experts linked the economic potential of the creative sector to tourism, underscoring the necessity for accurate data collection to inform strategic decision-making.

Revamping data collection for meaningful impact was a critical consideration, urging a shift towards meaningful numbers and a balance between qualitative and quantitative data. The importance of assessing the impact and outcomes of cultural initiatives beyond financial gains was emphasized.

Sustainability and adaptability strategies were explored, recognizing the diverse African continent. The importance of building local expertise through training and knowledge transfer was underscored for ensuring the long-term success of cultural projects.