Prominent Namibian poet, theatre practitioner and writer Keamogetsi Molapong has expressed dismay at the way Namibia’s literature continues to be dismissed by those in institutions created to promote the arts industry.
“What curse has fallen upon Literature in Namibia that it’s excluded from funding through the National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN)?” Molapong asked.
“Ever since the resurrection of the NACN a couple of years ago, it has deliberately excluded Literature from receiving grants. During each call for grants Literature is shelved, even clearly highlighted as excluded.
“Even with the COVID-19 Relief Fund no provision is made for Literature. There must be a universally accepted reason why the National Arts Council of Namibia has taken the decision not to fund Literature in Namibia.”
Namibia’s literature industry is one of the most neglected sectors. As a result the situation has contributed to a poor reading culture in the Namibian society, which has contributed to poor academic performance for children in public schools.
IN THE PHOTO: Namibian poet and playwright Keamogetsi Molapong
