📋 Tender Overview
Through the SSADZA initiative, Switzerland will support Zimbabwean artists to create new work, build networks, and engage audiences, enriching the arts landscape economically and socially. The programme will stimulate social change and enhance civil society by promoting the arts and culture as a catalyst for debate, social cohesion, peaceful co-existence and localisation. SSADZA will also participate in policy influencing with donors and government for increased financial support to the sector.
Country/region Topic Period Budget
Zimbabwe
Culture / development awareness
Culture & recreation
01.09.2024 - 31.08.2028
CHF 1’700’000
The project in brief
Background In Zimbabwe, the arts and culture sector contends with minimal public funding and primarily relies on short-term donor contributions and limited commercial proceeds from the sale of art. This perpetuates informality and jeopardises both artistic quality and financial stability. Economic and political pressures further discourage collaboration and innovation, stifling cultural creativity. These challenges underscore broader societal issues, including limited critical discourse and inadequate platforms for artists to exchange ideas. These factors further exacerbate tensions around freedom of expression and holding government accountable. Despite a robust policy framework, skepticism remains regarding the government’s commitment to effective implementation. Legal barriers further limit the ability of the sector to promote peace and civic engagement.
Objectives Key cultural actors in Zimbabwe are strengthened and supported to promote social cohesion, strengthen civic space, and enhance community participation through cultural engagement.
Target groups Direct beneficiaries include artists, artistic and cultural initiatives, and cultural spaces. Indirect beneficiaries include the general public and policymakers. The project is committed to achieving equitable national geographic coverage, allocating a minimum 30% of funds to artists and initiatives outside of Harare.
Medium-term outcomes Objective 1: Artistic and cultural opportunities in Zimbabwe are enhanced through targeted small grants to artists and arts organisations. Objective 2: Reach and capacity of the Alliance Française is enhanced, confirming its role as a dynamic centre of excellence and innovation for artists. Objective 3: Identify and support innovative artistic and cultural initiatives, fostering their growth and sustainability while enhancing social cohesion and civic participation through inclusive dialogue, empowerment of marginalised voices, and strengthening community resilience. Objective 4: Facilitate policy influencing with donors and government for increased support to the arts sector.
Results Expected results:
80 artists and 5 arts organisations receive grants to produce new artistic work and showcase it at exhibitions, festivals and workshops
40 artists are trained in business management and financial
