A delegation from the City of Jacksonville has landed in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, to celebrate the Mandela Bay Arts Festival (MBAF).
This is a 25-year relationship between the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) and the City of Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
Babalwa Lobishe, Executive Mayor of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, said this Sister City relationship was established on the 22nd February 2000, and has played a crucial role in fostering international collaboration, particularly in the areas of cultural and artistic exchange, economic development, and education.
“Our partnership with Jacksonville is a shining example of how global relationships can create
meaningful opportunities for our communities. Through initiatives like the Mandela Bay Arts
Festival, we are equipping our creatives with the tools to thrive in international markets while
also showcasing our city’s rich cultural heritage. This is a testament to our dedication to
positioning Nelson Mandela Bay as a hub for economic growth and cultural exchange” said Lobishe.
Celebrations will include hosting a series of training workshops aimed at enhancing the skills of local artists and filmmakers in filmmaking, production, and scriptwriting.
One of the key outcomes of the current training initiative, is the production of a promotional documentary showcasing Nelson Mandela Bay’s tourism potential and economic opportunities.
In addition to training the Local Film Forum and the broader arts community, learners and
educators from various institutions in the Metro, will also participate in the festivities and training, including Steven Mazungula Primary in New Brighton, Ebhongweni Primary School in Kwazakhele, Pearson High School, Cotswold
Primary, Nelson Mandela University, Nicky Ray Studios and Stage World Productions.