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Fostering Artistic Resilience: Uganda and Rwanda Unveil Transformative Initiatives with support from the Aschberg-UNESCO programme
In the dynamic realm of culture and creative industries, Uganda and Rwanda embarked on transformative journeys supported by the Kingdom of Norway sponsored, Aschberg - UNESCO Programme. The programme aims to advance the implementation of UNESCOs two normative instruments related to addressing artistic creativity; the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expression and the 1980 Recommendation concerning the Status of the Artist. These initiatives serve as beacons of change, addressing socio-economic opportunities and challenges faced by artists and culture professionals in these two East African nations.
Uganda's Cultural Journey: Unveiling Insights and Pioneering Reforms: Uganda unfolded a narrative of resilience and innovation through a high-profile, close-out event on January 25, 2024, in Kampala Uganda. The stage was set for the revelation of two important reports—the Digital Open Roadmap report and an exhaustive study on the Status of the Artist and Cultural Professionals in Uganda. During the event that marked the close of an 18-month project, these reports were delivered and discussed through presentations by the experts - Mr. Amos Tindyebwa and Mr. Polly Kamukama - as well as panel sessions and open discussions.
Led by the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, in collaboration with international experts, the UNESCO-Aschberg Programme aimed to elevate the status of artists and culture professionals, and to chart an open digital roadmap for navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
We remain committed to collaborating with UNESCO, international partners, and local stakeholders to effectively implement the recommendations outlined in reports submitted through the UNESCO-Aschberg programme. Our efforts align with both global and national development goals.
Extensive research into legal, policy, and regulatory frameworks within the cultural sector laid the foundation for a comprehensive study on the socio-economic conditions of artists post-pandemic. This study, coupled with policy recommendations, formed the bedrock of the transformative initiatives undertaken by Uganda. Simultaneously, the Digital Open Roadmap Project addressed digital skills gaps, conducting a nationwide capacity-building programme that reached over 600 stakeholders. These efforts build upon the success of a previous UNESCO project on the Governance of Culture in Developing Countries, which yielded a National Film Strategy. Notable outcomes of the recent projects include the establishment of a national digital database for filmmakers and the creation of the VOD (Video on Demand) platform, Kibanda Xpress.
Rwanda's Cultural Celebration: Elevating Artistic Freedom: In the heart of Kigali, Rwanda, the Ikirenga Arts and Culture Promotion Civil Society Organization launched the Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative on 27 January 2024. This innovative project, also supported by the UNESCO-Aschberg programme, aims to foster artistic freedom and cultural empowerment within Rwanda's vibrant arts scene.
The launch was a cultural extravaganza, attended by ambassadors, representatives from various embassies, academic institutions, and culture practitioners. The presence of cultural luminaries and partners underscored the acknowledgment of the significance of preserving and promoting artistic expression as a vital element of society's identity.
Beyond the launch, the Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative promises a lasting impact, signaling a commitment to nurturing Rwanda's creative sector. Ikirenga Art and Culture Promotion view this initiative as a catalyst for building a brighter future for Rwanda's artistic community. Post-launch, the partners of the initiative anticipate the emergence of a new movement—one that champions artistic freedom, celebrates cultural diversity, and creates opportunities for a vibrant and resilient artistic community. Through this, they aim to harness the transformative potential of art in shaping the cultural landscape not only of Rwanda but also beyond its borders.
The UNESCO-Aschberg program is a catalyst, providing technical support, essential tools, and empowering capacities to cultivate environments that fuel creativity, especially in the vibrant landscapes of the Global South. We are optimistic about the enduring impact these projects will make in the eastern Africa and beyond
