MEC Matome Chiloane took the stage at the Gauteng Provincial Legislature on 31 July 2024 with a speech that underscored the vital role of the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation in shaping the province’s social fabric.
With a budget of R1.090 billion for the 2024/25 financial year, Chiloane emphasised the department’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and culturally rich society despite significant economic challenges.
Chiloane’s speech highlighted the importance of sports, arts, culture, and recreation in building a cohesive community.
“I undertake the responsibility of nurturing the soul of our nation through the vibrant tapestry of sports, arts, culture, and recreation,” he stated, setting the tone for a budget to preserve and enhance Gauteng’s cultural heritage.
The budget allocation reflects a strategic focus on critical areas, with R170.137 million dedicated to administration, R244.278 million to cultural affairs, R335.446 million to library and archival services, and R340.139 million to sport and recreation.
Chiloane stressed that these allocations were carefully planned to maximize impact despite a challenging financial landscape. “As a responsive and caring government, we have linked our budget to programs and projects that focus on changing the lives of our people,” he said.
One of the budget’s key highlights is the significant investment in the province’s Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI).
The department has allocated R6 million to support emerging artists, enabling them to develop their skills and gain exposure.
The MEC acknowledged the challenges faced in the previous financial year, particularly the high demand for funding, and expressed a commitment to exploring further increments in CCI funding instruments such as Bidding and Hosting, Major Events, and Grant-in-Aid.
The budget’s notable focus is on infrastructure development for the arts. Chiloane outlined plans to maintain and upgrade several community arts centres, including the Rabasotho Community Hall in Tembisa and the Mphahlalatsane Theatre in Sebokeng.
“Gone will be the days when this department will be only events-driven without substantive and sustainable impactful solutions,” he asserted, shifting towards more long-term, impactful initiatives.
The MEC also addressed the need to preserve and promote Gauteng’s historical and cultural records, with R34 million allocated to protect and digitize archival materials. This initiative aims to ensure that future generations have access to the province’s rich heritage. Additionally, R31 million has been earmarked for expanding library infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas, to promote literacy and provide equitable access to information.
Sport and recreation also received considerable attention in the budget, with Chiloane reaffirming the department’s commitment to positioning Gauteng as the “Home of Champions.”
He announced an R21 million allocation for enhancing school sports programs and R1.9 million for Learn to Swim and Water Safety programs. The budget also includes approximately R40 million to bid for and host major sporting events, which Chiloane described as essential for stimulating the local economy and inspiring youth.
However, the budget has its challenges. Chiloane expressed concern over financial pressures, including R40.5 million in accruals and a R34 million budget cut from Equitable Share. He warned that these financial constraints would likely affect the department’s ability to deliver on its constitutional mandate. Despite this, Chiloane remained optimistic, highlighting the department’s innovative approaches to overcoming these challenges, including acquiring four Gig Trucks to improve communication and reduce outsourcing costs.
MEC Chiloane urged the Provincial Legislature to support the budget, emphasizing its importance in fostering a vibrant and dynamic Gauteng. “Together, let us harness the transformative potential of these domains to build a more resilient, empathetic, and culturally enriched nation for generations to come,” he concluded.
The 2024/25 budget for the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation reflects a strategic commitment to enhancing Gauteng’s cultural, artistic, and recreational life. Despite financial challenges, MEC Chiloane’s vision is clear: to use the power of culture and creativity to unite communities, inspire innovation, and enrich the lives of all residents in the province.
SOURCED FROM THE GPG WEBSITE.
