CCI Sector
Clusters
The formation of the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) Sector Clusters was necessitated by persistent structural and systemic challenges facing the CCI sector in South Africa — addressed through a historic initiative by the Department of Arts, Sport and Culture.
Systemic challenges
demanding a response
These challenges were extensively discussed during engagements between the Minister and sector national stakeholders, including at the CCI Bosberaad convened by the Minister in October 2024.
Fragmentation and lack of coordination among sector organisations, often resulting in duplicated efforts, competition for limited funding, and confusion over mandates
Absence of a unified, legitimate representative voice to engage with government and external stakeholders on policy, funding, and sector development
Exploitation of creatives, including poor working conditions, absence of basic protections (e.g. contracts, royalties), and lack of industry regulation
Limited access to funding, particularly for grassroots artists and community-based initiatives
Uneven development across provinces and sub-sectors, with rural and township creatives often excluded from key networks
Weak governance frameworks lacking accountability, transparency, and sustainability
Policy disconnects and silo operations between different levels of Government and the Sector
A structured
ecosystem
Formalised Clusters
Facilitate the creation of formalised and structured Cluster organisations to consolidate representation and advocacy efforts.
Transparent Boards
Establish transparent, inclusive and professionally managed CCI Sector Boards across all major creative disciplines.
Economic Contribution
Enhance the Sector's ability to contribute to economic recovery, job creation, social cohesion, and national identity.
Coherent Ecosystem
Ensure a coherent, accountable and impactful Sector ecosystem, with empowered leadership structures capable of driving sustainable growth.
What are Clusters?
Clusters are Sector-based coordinating structures, representing key creative domains. Each Cluster operates as a registered Non-Profit Company (NPC) with a Board of Directors. The Clusters cover 17 disciplines:
Theatre, Musical Theatre and Opera
Dance
Exhibitions, Events, Festivals and Technical Productions
Visual Arts
Spoken Word, Poetry, Story-telling and Stand-up Comedy
Music – Mass Participation, Community-based Choirs, Brass Bands, and Traditional Music
Music – Modern Sounds (pop, amapiano, rock, kwaito, hip hop, etc.)
Music – Ghoema, Kaapse Klopse and folk music
Books and Publishing, Manufacturing and Distribution
Film, Cinema and Television
New Media
Animation and Gaming
Product, Jewellery, Fashion, and Textile Design
Craft
Communication Design and Interior Design
Arts Education
Content Developers and Creators
In the main, these CCI Sector Cluster Boards of Directors are tasked with Sector development, stakeholder engagement, and policy advocacy.
Principles of the
CCI Sector Clusters
Unity in Diversity
Celebrating the multiplicity of creative expressions across South Africa while fostering collective advancement.
Inclusivity and Transformation
Promoting equitable representation across gender, age, race, geography, and discipline.
Accountability and Good Governance
Upholding transparency, integrity, and sound management in all sector operations.
Collaboration and Partnership
Encouraging cross-sectoral cooperation and inter-cluster collaboration to strengthen the creative ecosystem.
Professionalism
Driving standards of excellence, ethics, and innovation across all creative domains.
Social and Economic Impact
Ensuring the arts contribute meaningfully to job creation, entrepreneurship, and social cohesion.
Key resolutions
Objectives
Serve as formal coordinating structures for their respective creative disciplines
Develop and implement strategic plans aligned with the CCI Masterplan and national cultural policy priorities
Facilitate Sector growth, transformation, and sustainability through training, funding access, and market development
Promote ethical standards, fair labour practices, and the protection of creatives' rights
Foster collaboration between provinces and sub-sectors, ensuring equitable opportunities for rural and township creatives
Strengthen governance frameworks through accountability, transparency, and participatory decision-making
Build effective advocacy platforms to engage Government and external stakeholders on policy and funding matters
Encourage research, innovation, and digital adoption as enablers of competitiveness in the creative economy
Promote youth and women empowerment through leadership, mentorship, and targeted capacity-building initiatives
Advance the international positioning of South Africa's creative industries through partnerships and cultural diplomacy
Progress made thus far
Founding documents developed; NATICMUSA Board established and legally registered as a Non-Profit Company (NPC) with CIPC. Company Number: 2025/088726/08.
A bank account has been opened and is currently functional.
All requisite documents have been submitted to and approved by the Department of Sport, Art and Culture (DSAC).
Board members are engaging with leaders of Sector organisations and associations across all provinces, following resolutions of the CCI Induction Meeting of 23 June 2025.