Elias Motsoaledi Municipality Elects Arts and Culture Executive Committee to Champion Local Talent

The newly elected Arts and Culture Executive Committee of the Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality, tasked with promoting local talent, fostering cultural development, and supporting artists across the municipality. Picture Credit: Supplied

By Aisha Zardad

Groblersdal – Local artists and cultural practitioners from across the Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality gathered on Friday, in Groblersdal after many years ofisolation without formal representation, limiting their participation in cultural events at both Local , District, Provincial and National level. The establishment of this committee now provides a unified voice and structured platform for artists at the municipal level.

The election meeting was chaired by Ms Mponi Makua, Secretary of the Sekhukhune District Arts Council, alongside Ms Lerato Skhosana, a member of the Limpopo Arts and Culture Council. Both officials emphasised the important role of the local Arts and Culture Committee in supporting and coordinating artistic initiatives.

The following individuals were elected to serve on the committee:

• Chairperson:Mr Solly Masemola (founder of Aganang Art Creative)
• Deputy Chairperson: Ms Tlaka Selinah (founder of Ipopeng Cultural Group)
• Secretary: Mr Thabiso Sebesho, also known as Dr T Tsa Manyalo (Director of Bapedi Events Group)
• Deputy Secretary: Mr William Mmekwa (DJ Orchestra)
• Treasurer: Ms Phindile Nomsa Msiza (SADAC)
• Public Relations Officer: Mr Abicky Kgolane (gospel artist)

Speaking after the election, Chairperson Solly Masemola stated “Our main objective is to empower local artists, foster high-quality artistic performance, and coordinate participation across municipal, district, and provincial events. This includes disability dance programmes, arts and culture exhibitions, and indigenous games. Collaboration with both government and private sector stakeholders is essential to strengthen and sustain arts and cultural initiatives in our region.”

Public Relations Officer Abicky Kgolane reinforced the committee’s mission, explaining that it will support, develop, and promote art and culture through funding advocacy, strategic planning, workshops, and community events such as art expos, heritage celebrations, and music and theatre festivals.
“We are the mouthpiece of our disadvantaged artists,” Kgolane concluded.

The election of the Arts and Culture Executive Committee marks a significant step toward creating a structured platform for the growth, recognition, and sustainability of arts and culture in the Elias Motsoaledi Municipality.