Chairperson, the MF has one concern and I am very glad that the hon President had told the multiparty leadership meeting that at functions we must reflect the broad cross-section of the South African population.
Furthermore, I am glad that the promotion of arts and culture is definitely rising. But when we have provincial, national and international events, we must realise that there are great people in the field of arts and culture from the various communities in South Africa.
Indeed, when hosting major events we must ensure that we present the rainbow nation. Let us, therefore, seize the opportunity as we host the World Cup to market our country in the international domain, be it through kwaito, hip-hop, freestyle, Indian classical music and dance, gospel, etc. As alluded to by the President in the state of the nation address, the department has to become very active and involved, particularly in promoting cultural industries.
The MF is very concerned that only a few local artists will be given the opportunity to perform at the opening event of the Fifa 2010 World Cup. Hon Minister, the MF makes a plea to ensure that local artists are given a once in a lifetime opportunity to display South Africa's talent, which would also assist immensely in increasing sustainable employment for artists.
The MF humbly submits that various departments such as Trade and Industry come on board and provide marketing assistance to South African artists so that they can become a force to be reckoned with in a globally competitive environment, and ultimately develop and continue with their artistic expression in a financially secure environment.
I would also like the hon Minister to discuss, at Minmec, the formula for the promotion of arts and culture. And we must always remember that there is a fine line between tradition and culture. I also believe that when overseas governments send groups to our country, they should not confine them to one community. We must start having a programme that says, "Let us see other cultures, let us understand the culture of others". Remember that culture is the fabric of the soul of any country and any nation. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, the greatest integrity of an individual is his tradition and culture. The MF supports the Budget Vote. [Applause.]