Julius Banda, the country representative for United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization told journalist at Landmark Hotel during the symposium for reshaping policies for creativity, addressing the culture as a global public good, that the economic contribution of creative industry in South Sudan is misjudged.
“The other issue which cut across is the issue that the sector is not formal in nature in south Sudan, perhaps people underestimate its contribution to economic development,” said Banda.
Banda added that the other challenge that creative industry is grappling with in south Sudan is limited digital empowerment and completeness in terms of gender inclusion where he observes that women are under-represented especially in senior level.
The creative Industry which include arts and crafts, design, fashion, film, video, photography, music and performing arts, poetry and other form of writing is a growing lucrative business, Banda continued.
Deng Nhial, the Director for cultural heritage for the national ministry of culture, museum and Heritage said that South Sudan is facing a lot of challenges in the creative industry, noting that capacity building is needed to enhance professional practices.
“We have a lot of challenges in the creative industry, we will be grateful to see more professionals in all professions, that is what the country is looking for,” said Nhial.
The minister said South Sudan want capacity building and space to practice professionally in the creative industry so that South Sudan cultural values are promoted both home and away.
