Given that Springbok Rugby Captain, Siya Kolisi is an inspiration both on and off the field, it is astonishing that KZN’s Department of Arts and Culture (DoAC) has failed to supply any of its municipal libraries with his brand new autobiography.
Kolisi’s book titled Rise, is one of the fastest selling books in the country after being released in September. It captures the essence of his life and rise to fame as the first black South African Captain to lead the National Rugby team to win the World Cup in 2019.
Kolisi serves as an example of an exemplary leader, particularly to the youth. His autobiography deserves to be made available at all South African libraries so that our young people can read about his rise to success and know that, no matter what life throws at you, it is possible to accomplish all you dream of. Not only can it serve as inspiration to aspiring athletes and competitors in all sporting codes, Kolisi’s story also has a role to play in encouraging our youth to achieve great success in their chosen fields.
That not a single Library in our province has a copy of the book is a travesty. But it is hardly a surprise. Earlier this year, the DA uncovered that the vast majority in the province have not received any new books for as long as three years after both the KZN Municipal Library and the KZN Provincial Library Services stopped purchasing books.
This is what happens when the DoAC – which is knee-deep in corruption and mismanagement – is involved. This is also what happens when there is a failure to prioritize important aspects that are meant to assist the youth. The DA has on many occasions exposed the rot within this Department. Disappointingly, KZN Premier, Sihle Zikalala, continues to turn a deaf ear. Both MEC, Hlengiwe Mavimbela and her HOD, Mr NP Chonco have failed dismally in running the DoAC and it is high time that they were fired.
The DoAC needs to start focussing on serving communities, rather than driving the gravy train of corruption. The DA will continue to expose this Department for its lack of functionality and inability to serve the people of KZN.
Bradley Singh, MPL
DA KZN Spokesperson on Arts and Culture
