The appointment of the new minister of sports, arts and culture has been positively welcomed by many in the arts industry. Zizi Kodwa who was the deputy minister in the Presidency for state security takes over from Nathi Mthethwa following Monday's cabinet reshuffle. 

ZAHARA

Singer and songwriter Bulelwa "Zahara' Mkutukana tells ZiMoja that she appreciates the efforts he made but she hopes for more. "I did not receive COVID-19 relief fund. I almost lost my house because of that. But it's not only me who suffered. Many artists have called him the minister of conferences, condolences and so forth. I cannot rejoice for bhut' Zizi Kodwa either when we have not seen what he can do for the arts in South Africa. He is yet to prove himself. I am hoping he will do right by the artist. They only use us when they want to campaign and nothing else.' Zahara believes that someone who studied something related to the arts would have been suitable. "But we will give him a chance because our arts industry is hopeful.' 

GABI LE ROUX

The president of the Trade Union Musician Of South Africa (TUMSA) Gabi Le Roux says they warmly welcome the newly appointed minister. "The challenge for him is a daunting one, given that his biggest task will be to take the initiative in firmly establishing a South African Collective Cultural and Creative Brand not only in the hearts and minds of all South Africans,' he says. "But more specifically, on foreign shores throughout the World, where the appetite for our uniquely diverse Africanism has proven to be massive. Yet, economically; under-maximized, through our own lack of self-belief as a nation.' Le Roux says as an organization, they trust that the new broom will not only sweep clean but facilitate the opportunities for our Arts and Culture to enjoy the same and even higher international stature than our Rugby, Cricket, and some Athletes have been able to do. "We thank the President for this signal that our sector is now enjoying his specific focus and we look forward to engaging with Minister Kodwa at his soonest convenience on all the looming priorities he is facing.' 

MOONCHILD SANELY

International singer Sanelisiwe "Moonchild Sanelly' Twisha tells ZiMoja that having a new minister is a breath of fresh air for the arts. "I think it's refreshing to have a young family man,' she says. "We are hoping he will support people in their artistic ventures. God knows the role the ministry played in my international artist life. Artists need a support structure to help push SA to the world as we are world-class,' she adds. Moonchild says she hopes that the department will "actually track the change that's promised when organizations seek funds and are invested enough to see change take place more and more.' Moonchild adds that she hopes young artists get to be heard and not have to be old to be seen heard and trusted to deliver. "I'm happy Nathi Mthethwa is out. Ebengenamthetho lamfana nje. Also, artists need to know that no one owes them anything, help the minister help you. Do all necessary steps to see your project through. Being prepared is what sets you apart.'

NOZY NGUSE

 Nozy Nguse Dlamini, the President of Cstahood says, "As Cstahood Foundation we would like to congratulate the new minister Zizi Kodwa. As women in the female creatives, we would like to be acknowledged, especially those who are on the ground, and we hope to get the much-needed support.'

INDIGO STELLA

Newcomer and Hip-Hop artist Indigo Stela wishes that more funding and effort would be put into supporting young artists' growth. "As a young person, I have not seen the department's impact on my life. I need to know and feel its presence,' she says. "Artists need support when doing international tours, help in educating young artists to understand how the industry works. They need to keep SAMRO on their toes and help with artist rights.'

 EUGENE MTHETHWA

 Trompies frontman and Music Rights Activist, Eugene Mthethwa says, the previous minister leaves no significant legacy. "Except that of messages of condolences and the R22 million flag that lights day and night even during load shedding (idiot),' he says. "The new arts and culture minister is young, outgoing, and a bit familiar with the sector issues having been involved in several engagements with the sector by his former National Chairperson mam'