How much do artists benefit from HIFA?

There have been concerns over the criteria used to select artists who perform during the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) and how these artists would then benefit from the whole festival.

These concerns were raised by journalists during the second HIFA press Conference held on Tuesday, March 05, 2013 at Rainbow Towers, Harare.

“What criteria are you using to select these artists, as we have seen that there have been recycling of artists who perform during HIFA whilst some artists fail to make it in?” asked Anthony Mutambira, a film-maker.

Responding to this question, Tafadzwa Simba, HIFA’s Head of Media and Community Liaison said that they chose artists who presented good quality art work and who were professional.

“Some artists are even recommended to perform again at HIFA by their peers”, said Simba.

Another journalist went on to state that even though it was apparent that HIFA and its supporters benefited from the festival, it was not really clear how artists benefitted from the festival.

Responding to this, Executive Director of HIFA, Maria Wilson said HIFA was not an agent for artists but a platform for them to showcase their talent.

“We give artists a platform to showcase their talent without paying anything,” said Wilson.

“This is a festival where we gorge ourselves with good things…it is not always about money.”

HIFA 2013 which runs under the theme What’s Next… kicks off on the 30th of April and will run till the 5th of May 2013.