Democratic Artists Movement chairwoman Julia Aphane has lashed government for not giving artists enough support.
She told Daily Sun too many artists continue to die poor because they do not get the support they need while they were still alive.
“We cannot watch our artists’ talent being washed down the drain like sewage,” said Aphane.
She said they wanted all the artists in their movement to be paid royalties, even if they are not successful yet.
“Our artists should not be taken for granted,” she said.
Aphane said not supporting up-and-coming artists killed their spirit.
“Our artists continue to face hard times in their daily lives because government has turned a blind eye to their problems.”
Aphane said arts and culture boosted the country’s economy.
“Our artists cannot die poor when we have departments with budgets to use for entertainment,” she said.
She said the movement was vital as it projected the voice of artists.
“The government should pay attention to such things so they can ensure our artists also live with pride and dignity,” said Aphane.