Limpopo Artists Movement Protests MEC's Festival Line-Up Decisions

The Limpopo Artists Movement (LAM) is calling out the provincial MEC of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, Nakedi Kekana, for alleged favoritism and lack of inclusivity in the selection of performers for the upcoming Mapungubwe Festival 2023. LAM's provincial chairman, Mphoza Mashabela, has voiced strong criticism over the department's handling of the annual cultural event and is advocating for a boycott in response to what the organization sees as a continual disregard for local and emerging talent.

Mashabela conveyed the dissatisfaction of LAM members regarding repeated artist line-ups, which have not only stunted the growth of the local art scene but have also led to a sort of monopoly where only a select few are given the spotlight repeatedly. Notable acts such as Makhadzi, King Monada, Pleasure Tsa Manyalo, Master KG, Shebe-shebe, Shibu Molomo, Kharishma, and Dr. Winnie Mashaba are set to perform again, having been regular attendees in the past.

The Mapungubwe Festival, slated to be held from December 9th to December 16th, 2023, at various venues across Limpopo, will culminate with a show at the Cricket Club in Polokwane. The Limpopo Artists Movement contends that more slots should be allocated to up-and-coming artists who can bring fresh performances and perspectives to the prestigious event.

By urging a boycott, LAM aims to pressurize the MEC and the department into revising their approaches towards festival management, specifically citing the need for new individuals who are more attuned to the evolving landscape of the Limpopo arts scene. Amidst these calls for change and greater inclusivity, Mashabela denies allegations of his personal involvement in the festival, emphasizing that the drive for a fairer representation of artists transcends individual interests and focuses on collective growth and opportunity within the provincial arts community.

The turmoil raises significant questions about the role of government and cultural departments in nurturing and promoting a diverse range of artistic expressions. As a province rich in cultural heritage and musical prowess, Limpopo's local artists are seeking a platform that fairly represents their talents and contributions to the arts landscape. The Limpopo Artists Movement demonstrates through its actions that solidarity among artists can be a powerful catalyst in advocating for equitable treatment and the celebration of all forms of artistic prowess in the region.