Pretoria: Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has highlighted the significance of the South African creative industry, noting its substantial contributions to revenue generation and employment creation. Morolong emphasized the industry’s role in the economy, citing its contributions to knowledge attainment, nation-building, and cultural preservation.
According to South African Government News Agency, Morolong spoke during the launch of “Business by Grace,” a book by Zibusiso Mkhwanazi. The book not only showcases business success stories but also offers practical insights on building businesses amid challenges. Mkhwanazi, an advertising guru and entrepreneur, underscores the importance of embracing business lessons in his work.
Morolong further elaborated on the creative industry’s breadth, comprising publishing and print media, which serve as vital sources of revenue and employment. He noted the interconnected network within the industry, involving paper manufacturers, educational institutions, authors, and various other professions.
The Deputy Minister stressed the enhanced significance of the creative industry in the modern context as a source of information and knowledge, while also serving as a platform for political, social, and cultural expression. He identified the sector as crucial in addressing the persistent challenges facing South African society and the economy.
Morolong acknowledged the high expectations placed on the sector, emphasizing the importance of growth through inclusion, empowerment, and harnessing the talents of South Africans. He also touched upon the broader socio-economic challenges, such as high unemployment rates and uneven access to basic services, which continue to affect the nation.
In closing, Morolong linked the ongoing process of change to new policies aimed at comprehensive economic reform, as outlined in government policy frameworks and the National Development Plan Vision 2030.