01/05/2026
A May Day Message to the Cultural Workers of Zimbabwe:
On this International Workers’ Day, we turn our attention to a vital yet often overlooked segment of the Zimbabwean workforce: the artists and cultural professionals. You are the custodians of our heritage, the critics of our society, and the dreamers of our future. Today we recognise your labour and the unique environment in which you operate.
The social and economic landscape for the creative sector in Zimbabwe remains fraught with challenges. Many artists operate within the informal economy, where the lack of formal employment status often excludes them from social safety nets and traditional banking systems. Despite the high inflation and currency instability that affects the nation, you continue to produce work of immense value. Your resilience in the face of economic adversity is a testament to your dedication and the indispensable role you play in our national life. We acknowledge that the dignity of labour extends to the canvas, the stage, and the written word.
Politically, the environment is one of both opportunity and responsibility. There is a growing recognition that culture is a pillar of national identity and nation-building. However, artists must navigate the complex dynamics of freedom of expression. It is essential that the government and cultural institutions engage in meaningful dialogue to create a supportive policy framework. This framework should protect intellectual property rights and ensure that censorship does not stifle the creative spirit. The artist must remain free to reflect the true state of our society without fear of reprisal.
Technologically, the digital revolution presents a paradox of potential and difficulty. The rise of social media and digital streaming platforms has allowed Zimbabwean artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers and reach global audiences directly. This shift has democratised the industry, allowing voices from Harare to Bulawayo to be heard in London and New York. Nevertheless, the high cost of data and limited internet access in rural areas remain significant barriers. We must advocate for affordable digital infrastructure to ensure that no creative mind is left offline due to economic constraints.
Regarding funding, the landscape is shifting. Reliance on foreign donor funding and sporadic corporate sponsorship is no longer a sustainable model. The current economic climate demands that cultural professionals adopt innovative business models. There is a pressing need for the establishment of a robust national arts fund supported by both the state and the private sector. Furthermore, artists are encouraged to explore crowdfunding and monetise their digital content more effectively to achieve financial independence.
To move from rhetoric to action, we issue the following calls:
To the Government: We urge the state to move beyond general acknowledgement of the arts to concrete structural support. It is imperative to expand statistical data generation on the arts sectors. Without accurate data regarding the creative economy's contribution to GDP and employment, the sector cannot be effectively planned for or integrated into national development strategies.
To the Artists: Your power lies not only in your individual talent but in your collective strength. There is a critical need for the formation and strengthening of guilds and unions. Collective organisation is essential to secure fair remuneration, protect intellectual property, and advocate for your rights as workers within the formal economy.
To Organisations: Cultural institutions and NGOs must intensify efforts to bridge the gap between the creative community and the resources they need. We call on you to provide targeted capacity building, focusing on digital literacy, legal education, and administrative support, to help artists professionalise and sustain their careers.
To Investors: We challenge the private sector to view the creative industry as a viable economic engine rather than a charitable cause. We call for strategic investment in creative enterprises and support for the establishment of a sustainable national arts fund. By investing in the arts, you are fostering a resilient industry with high potential for returns and social impact.
On this May Day, let us recommit to supporting the creative workforce. A nation that neglects its artists neglects its soul. We call for better working conditions, fair remuneration, and a supportive environment that allows the arts to flourish not just as a hobby, but as a viable and respected career. Happy May Day to all the cultural workers of Zimbabwe.
Message by: Josh Nyapimbi
