A new Eswatini Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Society (ESWACOS) funding initiative is generating discussion as creatives weigh its benefits against the realities of production costs.
The launch of the ESWACOS Fund for Creativity and Artist Development has generated mixed reactions within the country’s creative sector, with artists welcoming the opportunity while raising concerns about the amount available per project.
The fund, which falls under the recently launched Creative Industries Development Fund (CIDF), offers grants of up to E5,000 to support new creative projects. Applications are open until June 30 and successful recipients will be announced on July 17.
The initiative targets ESWACOS members developing original works in music, film, literature and other copyright-related fields.
Supporters have described the programme as a positive step towards strengthening local creative industries and helping artists turn ideas into completed projects. ESWACOS Executive Director Mmeli Hlanze highlighted the importance of supporting local content creation. “The fund is meant to empower creators to take their ideas from concept to completion,” he noted.
He said the initiative seeks to support activities such as song recording, music video production, book publishing, marketing and digital distribution.
The announcement quickly attracted discussion across social media platforms, where creatives shared different views about the funding amount. While many welcomed the opportunity, others argued that E5,000 may not be enough to cover the full costs of professional creative projects.
One Facebook user commented that “E5,000 will leave you in the middle of the project,” reflecting concerns raised by some artists about production expenses.
Despite the debate, industry stakeholders viewed the initiative as an important starting point for greater investment in the arts. Jelele Chief Executive Officer Dr P described the fund as a significant development. “The arts require support, not just lip service, but real money,” he stated.
He further viewed the grant as an additional resource that can ease some production costs rather than fully finance projects.
The fund remains open to creators, performers, producers, authors, publishers and rights holders whose projects are still under development.
