The Umzinyathi District Council approved the budget for the recent trip to Sweden and other Nordic countries by Mayor Ngubane, Municipal Manager Ndabandaba and six artists from the Rorke’s Drift Art Centre.

In a statement, the District Council said the trip was very successful and has resulted in many achievements for the district.

“The achievements were the opportunity to import, share skills and expertise. Partnership with the artists from Sweden was strengthened during the visit by the Swedish delegation here in April-May 2018 where the artists worked together to produce artwork and products that are currently being exhibited at the Phansi Museum in Durban. The Mayor and MM also met with the local mayor and also Minister of Culture to strengthen relations and make sure the exchanging of skills will happen.”‘

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The statement went on to say that the local artists had an opportunity offered to the ELC Artists to participate during the Igugu Exhibition in Sweden which  will help them and other artists in the district to improve their artwork, learn best practice and get exposure.
“‘The service delivery implications are that by supporting the ELC Arts and Craft Centre, the municipality is responding to the recently reviewed District SMME Strategy and National Development Plan.

“Arts and craft is an area that will be enriched by developing more markets to ensure that rural communities are able to make a living from their produce.”