Minister implores female musicians to take advantage of chances
Minister implores female musicians to take advantage of chances
Minister of Women’s Affairs Monica Mutsvangwa has called for female artists in the area to register if they want to be eligible for the same financing as their male colleagues.
Speaking last week at a seminar in the capital on female artist empowerment, Mutsvangwa also noted that the arts sector plays a vital role in the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).
“The importance of regularising and registering of female artists not only opens up more opportunities for them as credible artists, but also allows them to benefit from government initiatives and support,” she noted.
“In many parts of the world, the arts sector contributes a significant percentage to GDP. It is imperative that female artists take the lead in initiating and taking up leading roles in this sector. They should seize opportunities and engage the government”.
Mutsvangwa reiterated that women are no longer excluded from the national development process in all sectors, adding that regularising and registering of female artists was crucial for their credibility and government support.
“The government acknowledges the lack of financial success for women in the arts industry. We are committed to supporting registered female artists and small and medium entrepreneurs, recognising their potential for economic growth,” she said.
Mutsvangwa said it was disheartening that women had served the arts industry for years, yet their talents and efforts have not fully translated to financial success.
“As a ministry, we recognise this disparity, and we are committed to supporting registered female artists in the same way we have supported other small and medium entrepreneurs in different sectors. Art is equally important and has the potential to grow and contribute to the development of our economy,” she said.
The minister lamented issues including discrimination, a lack of resources, and a knowledge gap that she claimed prevented women artists from reaching gender parity in the business sector.
“We cannot ignore the difficulties and barriers that still face female artists as they work to raise their social and economic status and find a place in the world, especially in the corporate sector,” the speaker said.
“This persistent reality requires immediate attention since it is harmful to the advancements made in reaching gender balance. The arts industry must place a high priority on gender parity, recognizing and appreciating the contributions made by female artists, and advancing both their professional and social results. She asserted that renewed efforts were required to promote gender parity in the arts industry.
