The departmental spokesperson, Tankiso Zola, confirmed there was no virtual or physical Mangaung African Cultural Festival (Macufe) held the previous year. A written question to the minister of the department, however, revealed that R3 million was allocated for Macufe 2021. The department has been sent questions by OFM News to establish if the money was redirected to another programme.

ALSO READ: #FSbudget: #Macufe 2021 confirmed

The department’s MEC, Limakatso Mahasa, announced during her budget speech that the department was flirting with the idea of having a virtual Macufe, however, it was made clear that the idea never saw the light of day. 

The poster of the 2022 Macufe indicates a comeback and states that this year’s festival follows a two-year absence due to Covid-19. The festival will be held from 2 to 9 October. It will include shows such as hip hop, gospel, comedy, divas, the main music festival, theatre, and a fashion show. 

Sports or the Macufe Cup are not mentioned on the poster. If this is the case, it will be the first Macufe without the Macufe Cup. Full details on the events that will happen during Macufe will soon be released by the department.

ALSO READ: Millions allocated to #MACUFE

The written question that was asked by the Member of the National Assembly, Veronica van Dyk, on how much the national department has spent on funding projects in the country – revealed that a total of R4 million was allocated in the financial year 2021/22. R3 million was allocated to the provincial Arts and Culture Council for Macufe and another R1 million was allocated to the province for the Famo Cultural Mine Dance Festival.

ALSO READ: Free State MEC's house in question

The department was previously in the spotlight with allegations around the house of MEC Mahasa. It all started with Free State DA MPL, Roy Jankielsohn, who raised allegations during the debate of the State of the Province Address (SOPA). He said it is alleged that some Covid-19 relief funds, paid to artists, were redirected towards paying for a house for MEC Mahasa. The house in question is in Gauteng and it is where she is allegedly residing – only travelling to the Free State for her executive council responsibilities. Jankielsohn said he also submitted a written question in the Legislature on the issue and is awaiting a response. Concerns have been raised that government is responsible for the travelling costs. It is also allegedly the reason for her absence from office. 

Zola said - in response to OFM News’ questions - that they are in no position to respond to issues relating to the house as they do not have the relevant information. He said if such (information) exist, it will be a personal matter. On a question about when last she was in office, he said the MEC is always carrying out her responsibilities in and out of office.

OFM News