Government has this year allocated funds for the construction of the first ever National Arts Centre in the country.
The Centre will have a theatre venue, library, cinema for film makers, an archive, and studio for film makers and music producers.
Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary in charge of Arts, Fumbe Chama said an additional K10 million has been channeled towards the rehabilitation of various arts infrastructure in the country.
Speaking when he officiated at a capacity building master class for Theater Actors, Directors and writers from across the country, Mr. Chama said among the works will include rehabilitation of Lusaka Play House and Chingola Arts Society.
He said arts should strive to produce quality works that will entice national borders.
Mr Chama said talent alone is not enough but needs to be nurtured through such training.
He said the government recently approved the National Arts Policy which will help sharpen talent by producing artists who can express themselves professionally beyond borders.
Mr Chama disclosed that the ministry will next month launch the National Arts and Film policies aimed at further strengthening professionalism in the arts industry.
He said theater is a good business, but artists are failing to make money, hence the government’s vision this year is to support artists to navigate through their challenges and make the industry more profitable.
Mr Chama stated that the National Arts Council has signed an agreement with Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) to partner with production managers to produce content for live audiences.
He said this initiative will enable script writers, actors and directors to earn income through continuous use of content from such productions.
And National Theater Arts Association National Chairman Eric Kasomo has commended the Ministry for the support says the capacity building master class will help improve the quality of script writing and other skills related to arts.