How can the entertainment industry contribute to SA’s economy?

South Africa’s entertainment industry needs a make-over – Fast. This sector of industry has suffered during economic gloom and only innovation and re-invention can heal its limping effect on the economy. The film industry needs to produce films of international standard, content and appeal so that S.A film can be syndicated worldwide or exported to all English speaking countries. The demand for entertainment in general must increase by; slashing of movie-prices, creating different and interesting shows to lure people en-mass to the theatre. Collaboration between industries such as online technologies, print media, music, fashion, film and production should be encouraged and marketed to not seem exclusive, but inclusive of all socio-economic classes. Local music and artists should aim to achieve local and global success for wider reach and focus on building an international brand, diversifying into clothing, perfume etc. The industry is not yet ‘global’ enough to attract massive revenue. Afro-centric themes are nouveau but it doesn’t make bank.

Sianna Ariana Wu - Business Science Finance 1st year at UCT.