Members of the Independent Producers Organisations (IPO), Independent Black Filmmakers Collective (IBFC), Animation SA (ASA), and the Documentary Filmmakers Association (DFA), along with their partners and allies in the audio-visual creative industry, are organising a peaceful picket outside the Department of Trade and Industry in Tshwane.

This action aims to express their escalating concerns regarding the DTIC’s failure to address critical issues affecting the industry.

The protest, set for Thursday, 27 February 2025, aims to call attention to the following demands:

1. A functional administration system with clear communication to all applicants.
2. Recommence adjudication meetings stalled since March 2024. Inaction has led to job losses, threatening livelihoods and the sector’s economic contribution to South Africa. 
3. Expedite the approval of outstanding industry funding applications, many of which have been delayed for over 10 months.
4. Revise the inconsistent and ambiguous interpretations of mandatory guidelines issued in September 2024
5. Commit to regular meetings with creative industry stakeholders to address challenges and find solutions together.

According to the associations involved, the picket “represents a call for change and collaboration for mutual growth and prosperity”. 

“We will continue to mobilise, amplify our collective voices, and hold the Department of Trade, Industry and Cooperation accountable until the demands are met. The people of South Africa deserve better – no more empty promises, no more neglect. Our economic growth agenda must be inclusive of the creative sector and promote transformation that can create jobs and grow the industry further!” a statement said.