The National Arts Council has built a reputation for strict compliance. Now it's time for artists to hold the institution to the same standard of transparency. By Thami akaMbongo Manzana  For years, artists have become accustomed to hearing the National Arts Council's favourite phrases. "Application not compliant." "Reference letter not signed." "Certified ID older than three months." "Document not dated." "Budget inconsistent." "Limited resources." South African artists know these words all too well. Many promising projects have fallen at the first hurdle because of what the National Arts Council considered compliance failures. Others have been told there simply were "limited resources," despite meeting every requirement. Now comes an opportunity that has captured the attention of the sector, a fully funded trip to China. Suddenly, there are resources. Suddenly, there is an opportunity to travel internati...

We Welcome the Initial Breakdown and Look Forward to the Full Report By Thami akaMbongo Manzana Following our article published on 15 July 2026 , in which we raised a number of clarity-seeking questions regarding the reported R30.9 million expenditure on South Africa's programme linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup , the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has now released an initial breakdown of the expenditure. As we stated previously, our intention was never to engage in political point-scoring or to attack the Minister or the Department. Rather, our concern has always been rooted in the principles of transparency, accountability and responsible stewardship of public resources . We therefore welcome the Department's decision to provide additional information to the public. A Positive Step Towards Transparency According to DSAC, the reported expenditure of R30 945 370.15 covered several components of South Africa's World Cup programme, including: Official travel; ...

  BUT WHY DIDN'T EVERYONE RECEIVE THE INVITATION? The Creative Passport welcomes this fully funded opportunity to Beijing, but questions why some former National Arts Council beneficiaries received the invitation while others were seemingly left in the dark. Transparency should never be optional. By Thami akaMbongo Manzana  A fully funded international opportunity to travel to Beijing, China , from 22 October to 11 November 2026 is not something that comes around every day. The National Arts Council (NAC), in collaboration with the Embassy of the People's Republic of China, has circulated an invitation for participation in the China–South Africa Arts Innovation and Management Seminar . The programme promises valuable exposure to arts innovation, cultural management, digital technologies, organisational development and international cultural exchange, with airfare, accommodation, meals and local transport in China covered by the Embassy. The Creative Passport welcomes initiati...

  The Arts Sector Deserves Clarity, Not Speculation By Thami akaMbongo Manzana The recent revelation that approximately R31 million was spent by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture on South Africa's official delegation to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has understandably generated public debate. The figure, disclosed through a parliamentary reply and highlighted by ActionSA, raises questions that deserve clear and factual answers. This is not about political point-scoring. It is about accountability, transparency, and ensuring that public funds are managed in a manner that inspires confidence among taxpayers and, importantly, among those working within the Sport, Arts and Culture sectors. A Question the Minister Himself Previously Answered Differently One of the first questions many South Africans will remember is that Minister Gayton McKenzie previously indicated publicly that sponsors and funders would assist in covering the costs associated with the World Cup trip. If that was ...

  Why Community Arts Centres Matter More Than Ever By Thami akaMbongo Manzana               Image: Carletonville Civic                          Centre... Community Arts                            Development Programme  The Soul of Community Life There was a time when almost every township and rural community in South Africa had a place where dreams were born. Community halls, church halls, school stages and local arts centres were alive with music rehearsals, drama productions, dance classes, poetry evenings and cultural celebrations. These spaces did not simply entertain; they nurtured confidence, developed leadership, kept young people engaged and strengthened the social fabric of entire communities. Many of South Africa's celebrated actors, musicians, dancers, directors, writers and cultural practitioners b...