Recording Industry disappointed at KZN decision to scrap SAMA hosting
While some political parties in KZN are relieved the province has made a U-turn on plans to host the South African Music Awards, the SA Recording Industry says it's disappointed.
KZN Tourism was heavily criticised for its plans to host the music awards ceremony at the Durban ICC next month for R28 million
The department announced on Wednesday that it had scrapped the controversial plan.
Recording Industry CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi believes the province would've benefited from the event.
"We are saddened by the decision, we would have hoped at least that some engagement would have happened because in this debate, what is being lost is the economic benefit."
The DA's Heinz de Boer feels the money should be used to support local artists.
READ: RiSA taken by ‘surprise’ by decision to drop SAMAs in KZN
"This could have been done in the form of equipment, studio facilities or any other kind of assistance that young, up-and-coming artists need. KZN is a province that is plagued by high unemployment and simply can't afford to be spending R28 million on SAMAs."
Action SA's Zwakele Mncwango says the government should be tackling unemployment.
"To take money away from such a budget can create jobs. We know our province has the challenge of a high unemployment rate, so we'll believe the government should do whatever it takes to create jobs."
