According to Stephane Rey,Ambassador of Switzerland to Zimbabwe,Zambia and Malawi,,the initiative, spanning the next four years, will partner with local organisations across Zimbabwe to give artists a platform for their unique voices
The Government of Switzerland through the Embassy of Switzerland to Zimbabwe,Zambia and Malawi has launched a US$2 million Swiss Arts and Culture Programme for Zimbabwe, called the Swiss Support to Arts Development in Zimbabwe (SSADZA).
According to Stephane Rey,Ambassador of Switzerland to Zimbabwe,Zambia and Malawi,on the occasion of the Swiss Night celebration in Harare on 19 September,2024,the initiative, spanning the next four years, will partner with local organisations across Zimbabwe to give artists a platform for their unique voices.
‘’It will also foster collaboration with Swiss artists, like Nnavy, who so beautifully graced us with the national anthems this evening,’’Ambassador Rey said.
He said that the SSADZA programme is Switzerland’s commitment to localisation, empowering local institutions and communities.
He added that they believe in leaving the power of artistic expression, cultural preservation and innovation in the capable hands of Zimbabweans.
He said that as SSADZA rolls out, he is confident Zimbabwean artists will continue to make waves on the local, regional and global stages, as they have done for centuries.
To ensure the sustainability of the vibrant art scene in Zimbabwe,the Ambassador said, collaboration with the private sector is crucial, as it provides the financial backing and market access needed to nurture talent and expand opportunities.
The Ambassador said that the partnership extends well beyond the arts, underpinned by strong economic ties that have flourished over decades.
He said that Swiss companies, many of which have operated in Zimbabwe for years, are a true testament to an enduring collaboration.
He thanks Swiss companies operating in Zimbabwe like Nestlé Zimbabwe, Mediterranean Shipping Company,Cotecna,Organic Africa,Swiss Education Group,Stanbic Bank and Safeguard for their generous financial support in making this National Day Celebration possible.
