KUMISA

The KwaZulu-Natal Music Industry finds a new voice!

KZN has never had a shortage of musical talent! However, what has been in short supply are opportunities, support and information. The former is finally to be addressed by a newly formed, locally based organisation, KUMISA.

With a vision to promote, protect and invest in the growth and diversity of the provincial music industry, the KwaZulu-Natal United Music Industry Association (KUMISA) will play a vital role in aiding the sustainable development of the local music industry. This non-profit organisation will provide a platform for performers, managers, promoters and record labels that will address various challenges including severe skills shortage, skills and services drain, and a lack of access to markets that has previously plagued the province. KUMISA wishes to dispel the “grass is greener” mentality that has seen so many of our finest artists and support personnel migrate upcountry. KUMISA aims to grow the KZN music industry so that artists can be sustained and launched to the world from home.

KUMISA was established following studies commissioned by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, KZN and eThekwini Municipality 2008/2009, which included extensive consultation with the music industry. During these sessions, artists and other sector personnel were encouraged to express their concerns and frustrations regarding the local industry and recommended interventions that they believed would address the status quo. The former directly inspired the creation of KUMISA.

In September 2009, individuals from the music sector volunteered to serve on the interim board to facilitate the registration and development of the organisation, including prioritising the programme action plan of KUMISA. The interim board comprises representatives of the various functions of the music industry value chain, namely, Johnny Dimba, Karen Van Pletsen, Percy Tshabalala, Nise Malange, Neil Comfort, William Charlton-Perkins, Thandekile Mbhele and Zakhele ‘Zakes Bantwini’ Madida. The interim board also has representatives from the funding partners, Toni Monty, Acting CEO of the Durban Film Office for eThekwini Municipality and Buti Moloi, Project Manager, Creative Industries of the KZN Department of Economic Development and Tourism who serve as ex-officio board members.

KUMISA will enable better co-ordination and facilitate the development of a cohesive strategic plan between government and industry to address the challenges and opportunities in the sector. KUMISA’s ultimate goal is to serve nationally as well as profile KZN music in the global market through strategic engagement with international role players.

The membership drive for KUMISA began in March 2011. KUMISA invites all individuals involved in the music industry to become members. You can join by applying online at www.kumisa.com or filling in an application form available at your nearest Community Art Centre.

KUMISA’s long-term goal is to make an impact in local industry professional development, improve access to markets for local products, and forge international partnerships to expand promotional platforms for the KZN music industry.

For more information please contact info@kumisa.co.za