The Government’s Got You – Emma Theofelus

UNWRAP.ONLINEDeputy information minister Emma Theofelus has urged artists to come forward and reach out to the government about stumbling blocks holding them back.

She said this last week at the signing of the million-dollar recording deal between Namibianborn artist Kurzca, RTE Records and American Empire Distribution.

Efraim Paulus delivered a speech on behalf of Theofelus, saying Namibian artists should seek assistance when the going gets tough.

“As deputy minister being young and understanding where we’re all coming from, I’m saying come quickly so we can see how we can push the agenda of creatives. Perhaps there is something we can do. We can go a long way with political will,” he said.

Theofelus’ words come at a time when artists are complaining that the arts are treated as a stepchild of the government with little assistance available to artists and the arts industry.

However, it is widely believed that the deal between RTE and Empire, which is the first of its kind, will open up doors for Namibian artists to make it internationally.

During the signing ceremony, Kurzca said she was blessed and grateful to see this dream realised, and that RTE has always believed in her vision and pushed her to reach for the stars.

“Now with Empire, it is Namibia to the world, guys. I want to be the person who opens the door for other Namibian artists,” she said.

Paulus said the ministry was delighted to be able to show the world what potential Africa has.

“The whole point is to ensure we give artists the tools to get to where they need to be,” he said.